Your Business, Your World

Your Business, Your World

“A look at branding, marketing, and social media”

Business has changed in the past decade.  Not long ago, our business was locally focused.  Our costumers came to us, or if possible, we traveled to them.  There may have been an occasional phone call from a distant client, but for the most part business was centered in our immediate area.  With the expanse of the internet and technology, our business is the world.  With this altered direction in business, how do we adapt?  This article will address branding, marketing, and social media steps, for your business, in today’s digital world.

BRANDING/WEBSITE

The first step, after perhaps contacting a lawyer or the State Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to officially register your business, is to design and create a website.  Your business has a name and so do you.  Your potential clients might not know the name of your new business, but they probably know your name.  The advice from successful Hay House authors and business people is to use your own name for your website.  Your business may change over the years, grow, and develop into something entirely different from where you began.  Vista Print is an on-line website service that is easy to use and cost friendly. In lieu of continuously changing the name of your website, and confusing customers, build your website under your name.  

DIGITAL NEWSLETTERS

Gone are the days of receiving, what we refer to in the business world, as “hardcopies”.  In the past, schools, churches, and businesses would send a newsletter in the mail with all the current happenings and updates.  This iconic service is soon to be a past remembrance.  Saving trees, time, and money, digital communication is faster, more efficient, and better for Mother Earth.  There are services such as Constant Contact that provide the designs and expertise, in order to create an eloquent newsletter, and miraculously send it to your clientele in significantly less time than creating, printing, and mailing hundreds of newsletters.  

WEBLOGS OR “BLOG”/SOCIAL MEDIA

A “blog” or “weblog” is a conversational website used to draw readers into your business and your world.  Similar to your business website, a BLOG would benefit, if it is in your personal name.  BLOG topics can change frequently, but your name stays the same.  At www.blogger.com, you can select a name, a design, and a format.  Once the BLOG is written, it can be easily shared with multiple social media sites such as:  Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google or emailed.  The BLOG can be written daily, weekly, monthly, or as desired to meet your business needs.    

The BLOG is useful as part of social media communication.  It is not necessary to have an active presence in all social media sites.  What is most beneficial is to select one or perhaps two sites. You can share with your customer base, what is happening in your business community.

ARTICLES/PUBLIC SPEAKING

Being available to your associates is easier than ever before.  As part of an integral community of professionals, you can share knowledge and information through articles and public speaking engagements.  Giving back your talents and time by sharing valuable insights allows you to develop and grow personally and professionally.  This enhances your career and helps to showcase your business.  Organizations are looking for educated professionals willing to gift their knowledge to members, both in person and on-line.    

COACHING/ON-LINE CLASSES

The phone has been with us for over one hundred years, becoming increasingly portable, convenient, and all-encompassing.  Calling across communities or across the world is easy, affordable, and efficient.  Our computers can even call, with images and information readily available. From “conference calls” to “webinars,” the sites available for these services are endless, helping facilitate teaching, learning, and counseling.  Whether for a fee or for free, this is a solid tool in your business world bucket.

As part of an expanding Universe, it is necessary for us to grow and develop along with it.  Utilizing the current electronic media sources will help to enlarge your business and your world. 

Susan worked twenty years as an international business woman after receiving degrees in Business Communication and Spanish from Michigan State.  

She is a Holistic Health Practitioner, HHP, an ordained minister, public speaker, and writer.  She is an Independent Business Owner, offering Nutrilite health products through Amway.  

She teaches clients holistic and spiritual living concepts.  She is available for articles, speaking engagements, and classes.

www.susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

www.susanjmcfarland.com

www.susanjmcfarland.blogspot.com

www.amway.com/susanmcfarland

  

A Sense of Self

A Sense of Self

We are all sensitive.  We all have senses, from hearing sounds, to smelling aromas_, and tasting flavors.  We are inundated with senses, especially in today’s fast paced and high tech world.  Unaware of most senses, we lead our busy lives.  Even the highly recognizable senses, such as touch and sight, can flash by us if we aren’t aware.

Let’s take a moment, breathe in, and listen to the sounds, see the sights and smell the fragrance.  Connect.  Connect with your “sense of self”.

As a child, I was labeled shy and introverted.  Often I would escape the “world” on my bike, and head to the nearest creek, or woods, for “alone” time.  Not knowing, at the time, I was gaining a “sense of self”.  As I grew, comments such as “although you are quiet, you seem nice” or awards, like “basically bashful” were handed to me during my college years.

At work, I retreated to tasks I could do alone.  Large crowds, chaos, and noise were overwhelming to my senses.  I would shut down.  Watching shows or being with people in emotional upheaval would send me into tears, and drain my energy.  Can anyone relate?  What are some of your sensitivities?  

We all are sensitive, whether we are aware or not.  We may be empathetic or intuitive or both?  Our sensitive side comes from the heart, not the head.   As a society, we value mental capability.  As sensitives, we need to honor and protect our heart-centered self.  

Working in corporate America for twenty years as a sensitive was difficult.  In a highly stressful and highly mental position, I did not appreciate who I was, an introverted, empathetic, and sensitive soul.  The negative environment, with little time to process all the incoming data was detrimental to my spirit.  Health challenges, relationship problems, and self-abusive behaviors were the outcome.  Can anyone relate?   

Whether highly sensitive or slightly sensitive, knowing yourself and having a sense of who you are is key.  What works for one person, may not be beneficial for you.  In quiet time, connect with your inner being and determine what brings you the most comfort.  It may vary depending on the time or year or the season in your life.  At fifty, I find more solace in just being with myself.  As I age, my sensitivities increase.

Anxiety plagued my life and still does at times.  When I am in a large crowd, or a busy environment, I panic.  If I hear excessive noise, or toxic smells, I cringe, like the reaction to nails on a blackboard.  Talking to people I don't know, is frightening.  Yet, in our world, we must adapt.  Sitting in a cave in the woods, is not an option, as a mom of two teenage daughters.  I must go to unfamiliar places, meet strange people, and hang out in crowds.  This, I can’t control.    

So I control what I can.  My home is a sanctuary, in the woods.  It is clean and organized. I walk daily in nature, to calm and ground myself, while connecting with Mother Earth.  Listening to quiet music throughout the day soothes my spirit.  Meditating and praying remind me I am not alone, as I call in protection.  Avoiding most public media, I read motivational materials and watch uplifting videos.  Boundaries are set, and “no” is an acceptable word. My diet consists of healthy choices, with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies.  These are my choices.  This is what balances me. What brings a “sense of self” to you may be different.  People and noise may energize you?  Cities and new adventures might excite your spirit?  

What is important is having a “sense of self,” whatever that is for you?  Honor and respect your needs and desires.  Live your life for you.  Find your joy. As you discover or really, re-cover your “sense of self” your spirit will soar and your purpose will be fulfilled.

Susan J. McFarland

January, 2016

Engaging the Spiritual Art of Business

Engaging the Spiritual Art of Business

“Seven Practices for Your Holistic Career”

Like the rest of the world, business is changing.  “Busy-ness” and spirituality appear to be contradictions;  two concepts, seemingly, not compatible.  With the increasing high vibrational energies, what once was inconceivable is now possible, even in the world of business.

For twenty years, I lived in this world.  Success was measured in monetary value and balance in life was a dream.  Because of the high stress environment, my health and home suffered.  Internally, I was in pain; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.  Connecting to the outside world, and the requirements to exist in this environment, left me drained and empty. Listening to the tiny inner voice, I ended my career and changed my path.

While starting a lifestyle business, centered on health, holistic-living, and spirituality I brought attributes and learnings from my previous accomplishments in corporate America.  The following seven practices are both business and spiritually oriented, blending the two separate worlds.  

1. Tune in
2. Think clear
3. Act mindful
4. Collaborate often
5. Measure results
6. Adjust frequently
7. Practice Joy

TUNE IN

The first practice, “Tune in,” is a spiritual tool that is critical in starting and running your holistic business.  If you are attune to the spiritual world you understand and know the importance of listening to your inner guidance.  In today’s world, where chaos reins, and quiet is hard to find, this is essential.  I placed this in the first position, because I believe it is the most important.  If we ignore our internal compass, and listen to outside influences, our business may never even start, and it certainly will not thrive.  Whether you tune in at the end of the day or first thing in the morning, it needs to be a practice; regular and consistent.  Ideally, tuning in can occur throughout a given day just by focusing on breath.

THINK CLEAR

With the influx of information in the current digital age, “Think clear” can be one of the hardest practices.  We are bombarded with messages and requests for our time and thoughts.  How do we even begin to think clearly?  It begins with the first step, listed above, which helps to quiet the mind.  For me, walking in nature is another way to stay grounded in reality.  Designate time to work on projects without interruptions.   Set boundaries with friends, family, and phones.  My phone is off by 8PM.  Mornings are my best time to work, so I dedicate this period for my plans that need clear thinking.  Know yourself and what works for you, then set your limits, and begin to clear the space for your thoughts.

ACT MINDFUL

Understanding yourself by dialing in, and reducing distractions to focus your mind will point you in the right direction, but action is key.  We have all heard, “Go with the Flow”.  I want to say, “Go and Flow”.  In corporate America, emphasis is placed on the action.  As an international business woman, I was rewarded on my actions that led to results.  What was happening internally or in my head was little concern to the bottom line, or so was the thinking at the time.  Action was king.

Mindful Action brings a holistic approach to the “go.”  Mindful action includes the previous steps, but involves moving.  Do something for your business every day.  Action is energy.  When energy moves it grows and expands, when it is stagnant, it withers.  Choosing mindful action for your business brings life to it.  Place an intention in your mind.  Incorporating the highest and greatest good, for the best outcome possible for all, adds the “mindful” element to the action.

COLLABORATE OFTEN

Holistically, we understand that everything is related and intertwined.  Nothing happens in a vacuum or solo.  The fourth practice involves “Collaboration”.  Collaborating with mentors, peers, and customers is vital in business.  Wisdoms gained, ideas shared, and feedback received helps to grow your business.  Meetings are frequent in the business world, for a reason, they facilitate collaboration.  In your own business, working with peers and mentors helps lessen your trials.  Listening to customer needs allows for fresh perspectives. Collaboration spiritually can be accomplished by calling on your guides and angels for help.  All beings of Light are here to offer assistance; all you need to do is ask.  

MEASURE RESULTS

Spiritually speaking, “Measuring results” is a hard topic.  In the business world, results are most often measured by financial success.  In a holistic business, money is not the focus, but because we live in a third dimensional world, it is important.  What I want to discuss here is the measuring aspect.  Reviewing and understanding the impact of your business is challenging when it is subjective and non-linear.  Often, you do not know the effect you have on a client or customer.  The healing may not be immediate or even in this lifetime.  Measure where you can, but know that following your heart and helping others is immeasurable.

ADJUST FREQUENTLY

Change is constant in business and life.  We talked about the action, now we will discuss flow.  Adjusting frequently is a standard concept in business.  There is no time to stagnate.  As a buyer merchandiser in the Toy business, adjustments were made to our selection every six months.  We made changes before the products hit the shelves.  Balance is key here.  In a spiritually oriented business, time is needed to “go within”.  Physical action does not take place until clarification is confirmed.  The challenge is, we may not receive such clarity, yet we need to act. Clear your mind, and check internally, but adjust as needed in order to benefit all.

PRACTICE JOY

Ultimately there is only One World, both of which include spiritual and business aspects.  Merging the two brings joy. Joy in knowing you are honoring your soul. Joy in knowing you are serving the greater good of humanity.  Joy in knowing you are fulfilling the will of Creator and Creation, as you create your business.
Practice Joy.


Susan J. McFarland
www.susanjmcfarland.com
www.amway.com/susanmcfarland
www.susanjmcfarland.blogspot.com
susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

Susan worked twenty years as an international business woman after receiving degrees in Business Communications and Spanish from Michigan State.  She is a Holistic Health Practitioner, HHP, an ordained minister, and writer.
She is an Independent Business Owner, offering Nutrilite Health Products through Amway.
Susan teaches clients holistic and spiritual living guidelines.
She is available for talks and workshops.







     
   



 


 

Middle Parenting

Middle Parenting 

The middle of a child’s education, can come around ten to twelve years old, exactly the ages of my daughters.  One is in her last year of elementary, the other started middle school this fall.  Ending the elementary years and beginning the transition to middle school is a huge step for a child and parent.  My children leave the comfort of a small school in a tiny community and venture to a much larger environment.  This journey does not happen solo.  The child brings the parents with them.  Just as the child feels anxiety over the changing roles, so too, does the parent.  

Leaving the job of primary caregiver, the parent now serves a second-hand role. No longer is the parent the child’s foremost supporter.  The child now shares the responsibility of provider for themselves. They want independence, but on their own terms.  Navigating this path is difficult.  Knowing when to step back and when to step in can be tricky.  I am not one to step aside.  I am a doer. As an involved parent, I lead my children as they move through the education system.  

Letting them “take the lead” and “hold the reins” is scary business for a “control freak.”  Yet, it must be done.  If they fall, then they fall.  I will be there to pick them up and brush them off.  I want to ask, and nag and nag and ask, but that leads to frustration on both our parts.  If they ask, I will answer.  Firms boundaries must set be set, but room is made for the stumble.  Keep the connection strong, with attention given when needed.  Guiding when asked, is critical and essential, to the “middle parenting” years.

Susan J. McFarland

www.susanjmcfarland.com

susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

September, 2015

Dog Gone It

Dog Gone It

I love cats.  Cats have been a part of my life since I was young, first Taffy, then Max and Nick, and now Licorice and Pearl.  I can’t imagine a life without my feline friends.  My daughter, on the other hand, loves dogs.  She connects with dogs at a level I do not.  Seeing the magic between her and any dog, I felt it was time to consider a dog for our family.

After watching friends and families with their pups, I began to visualize our life with a dog.  For months, I observed dog walkers on our path and in our small town.  Checking the Humane Society and shelters on-line to see if I connected with any canine companion became a favorite past-time.  We would walk the dog on our nature trail, snuggle with the dog in the evening and travel together to various locals around the State.  The cats would cuddle with the dog and they would be fast friends.  

My dear friend informed me of a little dog available about an hour away from our home at a “no kill” shelter.  At first I was going to visit the dog by myself, but as schedules would have it, the girls were available to join me.  The excited pooch was as eager to see us as we were to meet him.  He barked and jumped with enthusiasm.  My youngest child was so thrilled.  She ran and played with the cutie.  Although my oldest daughter was hesitant, we agreed to adopt him.

The next day, after purchasing all the necessary goods, we brought the three year old home.  The afternoon was busy, but good as we adjusted to life with a dog.  My reluctant daughter was away with friends for the day.  

As evening came, so did the fear.  The little sweetie could not settle down.  With my husband home, the anxiety amplified.  The dog began to bark, growl, and attack my husband every time he moved, walked, stood up or sat down.  My dog loving daughter became afraid.  

Apologies to any dog lover’s who thinks we “gave up” too soon, but we decided that this little one was not the best fit for our family.  With tears and a heavy heart we returned the dog to the shelter, feeling as if we failed the dog and ourselves.       

After more soul searching, my conclusion was as much as I wanted to “make” my daughter happy by providing her what she desired, I neglected to honor my own-self.  Dogs are great. Please don’t think I do not like dogs, but they are not for me.  I like dogs, I don’t love dogs.  I love cats.  Cats are independent, quiet and self-contained.  I love these attributes.  My point in writing this, is that we first need to understand and honor our own needs. You cannot “make” someone happy.  Nor can another person, animal or thing “make” you happy.  Happiness is internal, not external.  If you are not sure what brings you joy, find a quiet space, and “look within,”  the answers are always there.

Beyond the Surface

Change can be overwhelming.  Yet, change is constant.  My girls returned to school this week, one in middle school for the first time and the other in her last year of elementary. Leading up to the transition, we were nervous, anxious, and excited.  Feelings and emotions bubbled to the surface on a daily basis, most were not so pleasant.

The day before, as I searched for bus schedules and finalized lunch accounts, I became frustrated with computer issues and lack of information.  Overwhelmed with not accomplishing what I set out to do, I cried.  

Logically, I should not cry over a failed computer system or my inability to maneuver it.  On most days, I would have moved on easily and effortlessly, but not today.  I sat in my office, sobbing, with my cat on my lap, providing support.

I wasn’t crying over the unfinished tasks, I was crying over “loss,”; loss of my children’s innocence, loss of their need for me, loss of myself(as defined by my summer role).  Releasing that which no longer served me, helped me to deal with the change.

If only looking at the surface, my family would have thought I was crying over a silly inconvenience.  How often do we fail to look beyond the surface of what’s bothering our kids, our spouse, or even ourselves.  My children can be moody.  It may appear that their attitudes are due to a certain action or inaction on my part or others.  In reality, beyond the surface, their feelings and emotions are a reflection of the reality within themselves.  

In looking inward, I notice how my reaction is caused by my internal environment.  Depending on how I feel physically and mentally, dictates my feelings and emotions.  Looking beyond the surface of the problem, with love and compassion, we can delve deeper into the truer meaning behind the reaction.  In traveling beyond the surface, we can heal the true cause.

Susan J. McFarland

www.susanjmcfarland.com

susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

An Open Floor Plan

An Open Floor Plan

I love watching shows on rebuilding, remodeling and decorating homes.  Homes are a reflection of our inner world.  The current trend involves opening up the floor plans of older homes, for seamless transitions, from one space to another.  Gone are the days of closed in, cut off, four-walled rooms, separated and isolated.  

In writing this, a law has passed, in my beloved State of Michigan, which discriminates against same-sex couples, in the arena of state funded adoptions.  An “open floor plan” means open to others, whether it is in the area of religious freedom or diversity of beliefs.  While I believe we are changing as a group, and our homes reflect this, our laws often mirror the ideas of others.

As we create an “open floor plan,” our thoughts expand, and our ideas change.  A new normal is developed.  This is happening with the environment.  Organic food was a fringe idea only a few years ago, but as a group, the desire for, and use of organic products is becoming common.  As individuals, we have the power of an “open floor plan,” by what we choose.  No matter the arena; environmental, animal rights, women’s issues or global awareness, we have a voice.  Our voice matters.  

We can choose to remain isolated and closed off in our own little space, as in the past.  Or instead, we can elect an “open floor plan” that is no longer divided and blocked.  We can create a “home” where there are no clear beginnings or endings in the space.  This space is free flowing and inviting.  

As we “open our floor plan,” we open ourselves.  The first step to an “open floor plan,” involves self-examination.  Forgiving, trusting and loving ourselves leads to loving others.  As the world moves forward, it is time for an “open floor plan”.  Imagine a space where you can come and go with ease, without judgment or discrimination, but only Love.