Maya's Blog

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: 7 Powerful Tips to More Confidence

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:25:11 -0600

A client asked me recently how I would define confidence. I paused for a moment and replied, “Confidence is the inner knowing that you can achieve whatever you want.” What is your definition of confidence?

In my 30 years of coaching people to be successful, I have found that at the core of everything is confidence. Call it a belief in yourself or whatever you want, there is no sense in creating a marketing plan without it. Confidence is not necessarily something you are born with, rather, like a muscle, it is developed over time with practice. This article will give you some key tips on how you can gain more confidence.

Tip 1: Focus on What You Want

Where do you put your focus most of the time? Here’s a hint: if you feel happy, grateful and hopeful, then you’re probably putting your attention on what you want. If you’re feeling discouraged, depressed or anxious, then you’re focusing on what you don’t want. One of my clients today discussed her increasing feelings of anxiety as she was working with her clients in selling their house. When I asked her, “So what are you focusing on?” she admitted that she had been thinking about the possible failure of the transaction. When she changed her perspective and focused on the transaction closing, her feelings immediately changed into hope. Here’s a tip: Whenever you find yourself focusing on what you don’t want, just ask yourself, “So, what do I want?” Most likely you’ll choose positive thoughts, images and feelings as you focus on your desired outcome. Not only will this brighten your mood and give you more confidence, but also, it will increase your chances of the deal closing.

Tip 2: Tame your Inner Gremlin

Have you ever noticed that there is a part of you that picks on you, beats you up, expects you to be perfect and is very hard on you if you make a mistake? That voice is called your Inner Gremlin, also known as your Inner Critic, or Inner Judge. We all have one. The question is whether it’s running you or whether you are running it. Does it have power over you? Guess what? It only has the power that you give it. Stop listening to it and over time, it will be tamed. So how do you tame it? Here’s a simple technique: When you notice that there is a voice in your head either putting you down, or berating you in any way, use a simple STOP technique. First, interrupt the pattern of thoughts by saying to yourself, STOP. Next, take a deep breath. Finally, use this opportunity to put in a positive new thought. For example, if your old thought was, “I don’t have what it takes to succeed”, stop it, breathe, and put in your new thought, “I have all the resources I need to succeed.”

Tip 3: Clear your Inner Conflicts

How do you know if you have an inner conflict? Most of my clients aren’t immediately aware of their inner conflicts but it becomes revealed through resistance. How many times have you told yourself “I need to get on the phone and call my sphere of influence”, and then you don’t do it? That’s a typical example of how an inner conflict would be noticed. You’ll notice resistance to what you told yourself you should do. In this example, one part of you is saying, “Make the calls” and the other part of you is saying, “I don’t want to intrude. I don’t want them to think I am soliciting.” The reasons could go on and on. Whenever you find yourself in resistance and you just can’t force yourself to do something no matter how hard you try, do a little introspection, and identify the voices in your head that are in conflict. Then assume the role of the mediator. Just as you mediate in your business between two or more people, do the same within yourself and find a solution that pleases both parts.

Tip 4: Create a Successful Future Self

Often when I work with a client who needs more confidence, I help them create a successful future self. They visualize what they are going to look like in the future, having accomplished their goals. Then they practice feeling what it feels like to be that future self. As they sink deeply into the feelings of accomplishment, contentment and confidence, they are creating a vision that inspires them. You can be in business either pushing yourself to succeed, which creates “burn out” or you can allow yourself to be pulled towards success by a vision. Creating your future self is one way to have a vision. Perhaps you can picture your future self on a vacation, lying on the beach. Now, that’s inspiring. Here’s a tip: to reinforce this idea of a successful future self, make a collage. Get several magazines and take out photos that inspire you. Photos that you’d like to see happen in your future. See yourself having outlets for all that money that you’ll be making.

Tip 5: Only engage in interactions that are win/win

How many times have you gone into a situation with a prospective client while at the same time a voice in your head was saying something like, “Don’t do it. This doesn’t feel right”? Here’s a tip—trust your hunches. If you have doubts about a client or a situation, most likely you’re right. I’ve had dozens of clients who are recovering from burn out because they forgot to ask themselves, one thing, “Is this going to be a win/win?” According to Dr. Steven Covey, it’s either win/win or no deal. Next time your gut feelings are telling you to back out, listen to them. It’s better to back out in the beginning than to get involved in a situation where you can’t back out later.

Tip 6: Practice extreme self care and self maintenance

Think about it for a moment. What is your most valuable asset? Is it your home or your car? No, it’s your health. Yet I see so many people who try to be successful but then neglect their basic physical needs for rest, for sleep and for healthy foods. Remember, you are your business. Your most important asset is you, your health and your personal production capacity. The healthier you are, the more energy you’ll have and the more you’ll produce. What are the areas you need to improve in self maintenance? Dr. Steven Covey talks about “sharpening the saw”. He recommends taking an hour a day for making sure that your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs are met. Maybe taking an hour a day is beyond your reach at the moment. Then what small steps can you take to improve your energy level and vitality?

Tip 7: Know that what you have to offer is valuable

Effective marketing is based on the idea that you know your services are valuable and you are willing to communicate that in the marketplace on a consistent basis. So, how valuable are your services? What is your unique selling point? What do people get when they work with you that they can’t get anywhere else? When someone asks you what you do, what do you say? Let me demonstrate a “so so” response compared to a response that will get someone’s attention. Suppose you’re a real estate agent and someone says, “So, what do you do?” A “so so” answer would be, “I am a real estate agent with_______________________ company. “ Compare that to this. Someone asks you what you do and you say, “Well, you know how people get stressed out when they are buying or selling a home? Well, I take care of all the details and make sure that the process goes smoothly so that my clients can relax. I am a real estate agent with _________________ company.” Which real estate agent would you like to work with? Here’s a tip — This kind of answer will only work if you totally believe in yourself and know your services are valuable. There are many aspects to becoming more successful.

These seven powerful tips are just the beginning. Before you create your next marketing plan, check inside and take a reading of your confidence level. If it needs a boost be sure to take care of that before you do anything else. When you are overflowing with confidence, that’s the time to get out there and start marketing.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: 7 Tips to Creating Success From the "Inside Out"

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:22:31 -0500

Tip 1 : Build a strong foundation

What do I mean by a strong foundation? Would you consider putting a roof on a house unless it had a strong foundation? Of course not! Yet you would be surprised at how many people try to market their services without believing in themselves.

Tip 2: Identify and reprogram your self-limiting beliefs

Here are some typical examples of actual beliefs I have heard over the years:

“Life is a struggle”

“It’s selfish to want more money”

“It’s not safe to toot my own horn”

Can you see why any of these beliefs would stop a person from succeeding? What are your own self-limiting beliefs?

Tip 3: Reverse your self sabotaging strategies

Did you know that we all have a saboteur? We all have our dreams and we all have a part that tries to sabotage them, for our “own good”. For example I was working with a client today, who realized that even though she had a good business plan, she was never able to work her plan because of the resistance form her Self saboteur. What are your self sabotaging patterns? How do they show up in your life?

Tip 4: Use your mind and emotions to create your empire

How many times do you find yourself focusing on what you don’t want? There is something called The Law of Attraction. It basically teaches that like energy attracts like energy and you get what you focus on. So, what do you usually focus on? The lack of clients, the lack of income, the lack of time? Guess what? That will bring in more of the same. So, instead ask yourself, “so, what do I want”?

Tip 5: Learn ways to release your fears

Fear is not real. It is False Evidence Appearing Real (F.E.A.R.) To create success from the inside out, use a powerful tool like the STOP Technique. The way to do it is to notice whenever your mind goes into a fear thought, after noticing, take a deep breath and the put in an Empowering Thought, like,” I have all I need to succeed.” What positive new thoughts are you needing to hear? Keep a journal and note how many times a day you use the STOP technique. Congratulate yourself for your vigilance.

Tip 6: Know the value you offer

This may seem hard to believe but in my coaching of coaches, real estate agents, and other professionals I have seen time after time how people fumble with this concept. Instead, identify your value, i.e. your unique selling point. What are you really good at? Write a list of what makes you stand out among the competition.

Tip 7: View marketing as “giving” not “taking”.

I suspect a lot of us are giving and generous and because of that we don’t want to impose on anyone. However, you will experience a big shift when you realize that what you have to offer is a gift. Spreading the word about yourself is not “selfish” or “taking”. It would actually be selfish to deprive humanity of your gift. So what are you here to give humanity?

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: Are You Proactive Enough?

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:53:19 -0500

What does it mean to be proactive?

Many people come to me without a full understanding of the word proactive. What does it mean to you? Does it mean not procrastinating? Does it mean "getting on the ball? " If you answered "yes" , you're right but there's a lot more to it.

Are you the "cause" or "effect"?

If you get caught up in the idea that you're at the effect of outside forces, which we all do sometimes, then you are not viewing your life or business from a proactive perspective. What do you do when you don't have enough clients? Do you blame it on the economy, the interest rates, your boss, your environment in some way?

We often don't want to look inside and claim our own empowerment. Most of our training is to blame someone or something outside ourselves, to be at the "effect". In my 30 years of coaching people to maximize their success, I find that a profound turning point comes when my client(s) decide to take charge and become the "cause". So next time you have a shortage of clients, for example, ask yourself what action you can take? If you're not sure, find a book, a tape, or a coach that can help you know what to do. Turn your worry into action and you'll find that you have the power to attract the clients you want.

Do you let outside circumstances control your response?

Let's say that one of the prospects you've been working on falls through or a client you were counting on decides to cancel? How do you react to such circumstance? It's natural to feel disappointed, but I've seen far too many people devastated and depressed when they know they have to start all over again. The problem is that when you are controlled by the outside to the point where you can't function, your productivity suffers. Then the very thing you're afraid of, usually not having enough money, becomes a reality.

Here's a tip from the Law of Attraction: You get what you focus on. Focus on the lack of clients, and what do you get? Right, not enough clients. The solution? Switch that focus and do it fast. As soon as you notice that your focus is on lack, quickly think of how you want it to be. A full bank account? A lot of clients? Sales that increase? Projects that keep you busy? Whatever it is go there in your consciousness and make the switch. Then ask yourself, "What action steps am I inspired to make?" Inspired action will feel good, you'll feel a pull from the inside. Frantic action will feel scattered and "out of sync. "

Being proactive means you choose your responses. Next time you fumble, ask yourself:

* Am I being proactive or reactive?

* Am I being the "cause" or the "effect"?

* Am I focusing on what I want or what I don't want?

* What positive things can I do to help switch my focus?

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: 7 Tips to Becoming a Money Magnet

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:14:56 -0500

Did you know that most people block prosperity because of hidden beliefs about money? This article gives you seven tips to create yourself to be a “money magnet”.

Tip 1: Identify your Money Type: According to Deborah Price, author of Money Magic, we all identify with certain money archetypes. For example, when money issues come up, do you bury your head in the sand, like an ostrich? Then most likely your type is called The Innocent. If you’re not The Innocent, you might be The Victim, The Tyrant, The Warrior, The Martyr, The Fool or The Magician.

Tip 2: What was your conditioning about money? What old beliefs did you receive from your parents, teachers and the society around you about money? Many of my clients report that their old beliefs include: --“earning money means punching a time clock” --“money is scarce” --“money is evil” Which of these have you struggled with?

Tip 3: What are your updated beliefs about money? Since nature abhors a vacuum, then after you release your old Beliefs about money, put in some empowered beliefs that cause you to become a money magnet. These beliefs might sound something like this: --“I am increasingly magnetic to money” --“My income always exceeds my expenses” --“ I am highly worthy of being prosperous”

Tip 4 : Create a New Money Type for Yourself According to “Money Magic”, the ideal type to strive for is the “magician”. Why? Because the “magician” claims his/her own power and manifests his/her own financial reality.

Tip 5: Use the Law of Attraction The Law of Attraction simply states that you get what you focus on. So if you focus on the lack of money, the difficulty of paying bills and the fears about whether you can support yourself, then you will receive more of that in return. The solution? Easy, every time you find yourself focusing on what you don’t want, stop yourself and say, “So, what do I want?”

Tip 6: Tame your Inner Gremlin Do you have a voice that berates you? Do you find that it’s impossible to please that voice? Then undoubtedly, you are dealing with your Inner Gremlin, also known as the Inner Critic. It’s busy telling you that you aren’t worthy of having money. “Who are you to be prosperous?” it will say. It will probably badger you until you turn this voice into an ally who will say, “You deserve an abundance of prosperity.”

Tip 7 : Plan your work and work your plan When you have finally let go of your old beliefs about money, you will find it much easier to create an effective business plan. More importantly, you’ll be much more able to implement that plan and manifest prosperity when you are a money magnet.

Marketing Strategies -7 Ways To Overcome The Myth That You Have To Be "Pushy" To Succeed

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:00:30 -0500

Haven’t we all been told that the ones who succeed are aggressive and pushy? Isn’t this why so many people are scared of marketing themselves? In my 30 years of coaching people, I have found that almost everyone has an aversive reaction to marketing. In other words, they would rather do anything but market themselves and that’s what they usually do.

Tip 1: Look at your old concepts of marketing:

What images come up for you when you think of marketing? Do you visualize a pushy salesman at your door? Do you think of telemarketers calling you at night? Instead, think of your favorite teacher. Marketing is all about sharing your knowledge and building a relationship.

Tip 2: Do you equate marketing to “sales”?

Most of my clients have always worked for someone else and in their own business, they are scared about whether they succeed or fail. So they begin to believe consciously or unconsciously that marketing means “sales”.

Tip 3: Do you think you are “taking” when you are offering your services?

Over many years of helping people get more clients, I can honestly say that most people believe they are taking from another when they market themselves to another person. Instead, start thinking of yourselves as giving whenever you tell anyone what you do. Your product or service is there to help someone and it’s your passion about that service that is the gift.

Tip 4: Have a very comfortable, non pushy “elevator speech”.

An “elevator speech” is a memorized version of what you say when anyone asks you “What do you do?”. Always answer the question with a question. For example, if you are a real estate agent, instead of saying “I'm a real estate agent,” say “You know how most people get stressed out when they buy or sell a home? Well my job is to help them to relax and enjoy the process. I am a real estate agent.”

Tip 5: Always ask permission to continue.

For example, if you are making a “cold call” to someone in business, get their permission to continue. For example, if you are a coach and you say your name and what you do, like “I help people succeed in business,” then say “ If you’d like to take 30 seconds, I’ll be happy to tell you what I do.” The receiver of the call will feel like their time is respected.

Tip 6: Always give before asking for the gift of someone’s time and attention:

For example, if you want to go door to door, have something in your hand to give the person. For example, “I’m your neighbor and I have a list of the properties that have been sold in our neighborhood. Would this be of interest to you”?

Tip 7: Your prospect needs to know, like and trust you.

Any attempts at being pushy with a prospect will turn them off. Remember to focus on building a relationship so they can know, like and trust you. There are many people out there offering the same thing that you do. What makes you stand out and be different? The trusting relationship that you consciously build with your potential clients.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: Hate to Make Cold Calls? 5 Tips to Make it Easier

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:09:09 -0500

Have you often avoided making those "dreaded cold calls?" Do you dream of how much better your business could be but just can't bring yourself to pick up the phone?

You're not alone. In the 12+ years that I have specialized in coaching real estate agents, I have noticed the same avoidant patterns in each of my clients. This article gives you 5 tips to make it easier.

Tip 1: Change the name

I'm not kidding. Do the words "cold calls" send a chill up your spine? It's no wonder . Whoever created that term didn't know what they were doing. So, change the term, because it's inaccurate. First of all, many of the people you'll be calling are leads. Second, why would you think cold? Are you cold? Is the receiver of the call cold? Not likely if you're living in a human body. So maybe I'm exaggerating a bit, but the point is, call it something different, call it what it is, "direct response calls". My clients do much better when they realize they are making direct response calls.

Tip 2: Be in the right mindset

Are you calling to sell something? If so, put down the phone and start again. No, you are actually calling to give something and that is your time and expertise. Would you be scared if you had a gift you wanted to give someone? Unlikely. In the same way, be in the mindset that you have a gift and you are it. Why is this so? Well, think about the fact that you have something to offer. You know much more about real estate than Ms. Jane Doe. So if you call to let her know what properties have sold in her area, that is valuable information. Likewise, if you want to offer her a Free Comparative Market Analysis. That's a gift of your time, energy and expertise. You should be proud to offer that . Guess what? If you are proud to offer that, she'll most likely feel appreciative of the offer. Our energy and mindset is transferred to our prospective clients.

Tip 3: Use a permission based approach

For example, when I do direct response calls, the conversation goes something like this, "My name is Maya Bailey and I work with real estate agents who want to double their income. If you'd like to take 30 seconds , I'll be happy to tell you what I do." Notice that I didn't barrel my way through. I said as little as possible until I got their permission to continue. Use this script as a template to make your own direct response calls. For example," My name is ____________ and I'm your local real estate consultant . I have some news about the value of properties in our neighborhood. If you'd like to take 30 seconds, I'll be happy to....." Is this getting more clear? The latest trend in marketing is permission based marketing.

Tip 4: Get excited about the relationships you'll make

If you approach this in a permission based way, people will be much more open and friendly to you. Instead of focusing on the occasional rude person at the other end of the line, focus instead on what you want. Most likely what you want is to make some connections with a person , in which you can follow up , convert them in prospective clients and then convert them into transactions. Let yourself feel how good it's going to feel to close those deals. Pat yourself on the back because it all started with the courage it took to make direct response calls.

Tip 5: Remember to reframe a "no" into a "yes"

What do I mean? First of all a "no" does not mean that you are being rejected. Neither does it mean that your service is being rejected. What it means is "No, not now." Secondly, do you realize that every "no" brings you one step closer to your "yes"? It's a numbers game and you need a certain number of "no's" to get a "yes". Just remember to have thick skin and not take it personally.

My experience as a coach to real estate agents has shown me that it's all about attitude. If you are sold on yourself and your service and you convey that with pride and enthusiasm , the other person will be glad you called. They may even become a client. It pays to know that you are valuable and what you have to offer is equally valuable.

Marketing Strategies: How You Can Create Your Own "Success Blueprint"

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:09:58 -0500

Have you often wondered how you can become even more successful? Has it ever seemed to you that you have a “glass ceiling” on your level of success? In spite of all your hard work, do you find yourself still falling short of having financial security? Do you see people climbing the ladder of success, only to take one step forward and two steps back?

This is not simply a case of bad luck or poor planning. We can only be as successful as the “success blueprint” embedded in our subconscious minds. This article describes ways that you can create your own “success blueprint”.

1. Become the deliberate creator of your life

What does this mean? This means that instead of feeling like “life happens to me” you begin to believe “I create my life.” This is really the difference between playing the role of the “victim” and declaring that you are the deliberate creator of your life.

If you find yourself complaining, blaming or justifying, then you are probably falling into the victim mode. The only payoff of that is attention but the downside is never having what you want. Change that mindset now and decide that you create your own level of success.

2. Start to identify self limiting beliefs

Here's some examples of self limiting beliefs that I hear a lot from people who feel "stuck":

• I'm not good enough

• I have to struggle to make a living

• There's never enough money

As you identify the self limiting beliefs, don't be alarmed. Remember these are not facts they are only beliefs. And they can be changed. The only way to change them is to first become aware of them. You're already on your way to letting them go. So celebrate every belief you find as a weed in your garden that you can now discard.

3. Install empowering beliefs

Once you have decided to release the old self limiting beliefs because they are no longer true you are making space for new Empowered beliefs. For example:

• I am highly worthy

• Money comes to me easily and effortlessly

• I work smarter, rather than harder

4. Become crystal clear on what you want

You might think that you know what you want if you say, "I want to be successful". Actually that is a very vague message. You have a much better chance of getting your desires fulfilled in creating a positive success blueprint, if you specify what you mean by "successful".

• How many transactions would you be doing per month?

• What would be your yearly income?

• What kind of people will you be working with?

• How many hours per week would you be working?

• Specifically, what kind of work would you be doing?

5. Visually rehearse what you want to create

Have you heard that top athletes mentally rehearse their performance before an event? Did you know that Tiger Woods visualizes his golf strokes before he ever gets on the green?

In the same way, visualize yourself successful in your field. Whatever your niche market, imagine that you are successful in providing them with the service they need. See yourself receiving checks that reflect your full commission. Imagine just having sold a home. See the happy faces of the sellers as you bring them over a bottle of champagne. Whatever it is you're thinking of doing, visualize it first.

6. Step inside the visualization

In my 12+ years of coaching success minded professionals to double and triple their incomes, I find that they often skip this final step. And yet this is perhaps the most important step. Not only do you need to visualize what you want to create, but also you need to visualize yourself having it now, and feel what it feels like.

For example, imagine your dream, having already come true. Visualize yourself driving, your brand-new car (smell the leather) into the driveway of your brand-new house. Be in the living room of your new house, what is the view like? Picture the happiest scene possible in your new house, perhaps a gathering with friends and/or family. How does it feel to know that you have succeeded in reaching your dream? How does it feel knowing that you have an abundance of resources, not only for your own financial security, but also to give to others?

When you feel it, you create it. Your thoughts and feelings radiate energies that magnify back to you what you want. So the more you can live in your future fantasy, as if it's happening right now, the faster it will come to you. Your subconscious mind does not know the difference between fantasy and reality.

Follow the simple steps above, and create your own “success blueprint.” Putting these ideas together will help you to create your own “success blueprint.” Your subconscious mind will receive the program it needs that determines your relationship to success.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies- "The Secret" to Explosive Growth in Today's Market

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 22:04:43 -0500

In today's changing market with so many real estate agents struggling, why do some succeed?

This article describes the mindset and the actions that successful real estate agents are taking now. When real estate agents follow this simple formula, they can become Top Producers in any market.

Part 1: Mindset

In my work as a real estate business coach over the past 12 years, I have had the honor to interview the top producing real estate agents in the USA and Canada.

This is what I found out: the top producing real estate agents all said the same thing. "What helped me to get to the top was my mindset first of all". When I inquired further as to what they were talking about, they all pointed to having these characteristics:

* Optimism
* Positive Mental attitude
* Looking for opportunities
* Prosperity thinking rather than scarcity thinking
* Clear definition of their ideal clients

What I find interesting about all of these mindset qualities is that these are the same qualities that the Law of Attraction teaches.

But how can this be? Many top producers have been successful for decades before "The Secret" ever came out. Here's the reason - even before the "The Secret" came out, the Law of Attraction has been in existence.

Centuries ago people were writing about the Law of Attraction. Scholars in this century have written about the Law of the Attraction. Writers like Emerson, Blake and Einstein, have all written about the Law of Attraction.

In 1962, Catherine Ponder published her first book called "The Dynamic Laws of Prosperity". This book was all about Law of Attraction. Her main point was that you need to radiate out before you magnetize in. In other words, you can't get something for nothing. You have to give first.

Top producing real estate agents may never have read these authors, and yet they train themselves to have a prosperity mindset. They train themselves to be optimistic, to look for the opportunities in any market, and to focus upon what they wanted, not upon what they didn't want.

This in fact is the KEY. To succeed in any market, you need to be clear about what you want to achieve, then you need to know that you deserve it, visualize it and affirm it and take action steps to move you in the direction of your goal. This in essence is the Law of Attraction.

Too many agents in today's market are doing the opposite.

They are focusing on what they don't want - the downturn in business, the slowness of the market, the falling home prices, rather than seeing that today's market is for the most part an excellent time to be focusing on buyers.

Home prices are low, and they may not get lower. Interest rates are very low and may not get lower.

What more do you need to sell to prospective buyers? Keep focusing on the opportunities right now in today's market with a prosperity mindset.

Part 2: Action Steps

It's not enough just to practice "prosperity thinking" or to practice the Law of Attraction.

You need to be taking the right action steps. This usually means being in front of, either in person or on the phone with your ideal clients.

Who do you want to work with? List the characteristics of your ideal clients. Do you want to work with people who are:

* Committed?
* Decisive?
* Qualified?
* Highly appreciative of your services?

If so, then what are you doing to reach these people? Are you choosing online marketing as so many agents are doing? Or are you choosing off-line marketing, which would be called prospecting?

Make a decision and do it.

If you decide to go with prospecting, then you need to do it regularly and consistently. The top producing real estate agents took one to two hours a day, every day in the morning, to call different categories of people.

Here are some groups they would call to generate business:

* Past clients
* Current clients
* Sphere of influence
* Expired listings
* FIZBO'S
* Calling around "just listed/just sold"

When I work with my clients to help them to make these calls, they find that it becomes much easier to call when they have a compelling reason.

What is your compelling reason to call you past clients, your current clients, or your sphere of influence? If you have something to offer and you get to the point, they will be happy to hear from you.

For example, you can let them know that you are an excellent referral source. You might say something to them like: "I just wanted to let you know that if you are needing somebody to help you repair or upgrade your house, I am a good referral source."

I'm well-connected with painters, plumbers, electricians and many others. Please let me know when I can be of service and provide you with someone's name or number.

After you give them that information, they will be open and receptive to hearing what you have to say next. Your next line could be something like, "I'm very excited about expanding my business. Who do you know, who is even whispering about buying or selling a home?"

I find that simple strategies like this can make all the difference in your attitude about calling people. When you know you have something to give, (everyone likes to be the giver) you will look forward to picking up the phone and calling people. You will usually find that by giving them something, they will want to get back.

That's the Law of Attraction in action.

In summary, I recommend using the Law of Attraction prosperity mindset combined with effective action steps. Whatever action steps you choose, be sure to schedule a time first thing in the morning before the day gets rolling. And make it a point not to accept incoming calls during that time.

You'll be surprised at how much new business, you can generate from just focusing one hour a day. You can become a top producer and double and even triple your income in ANY market.

Real Estate Marketing strategies: How to Stay Positive No Matter What

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:21:02 -0500

Now more than any other time in our recent history is as important that we find ways to stay positive no matter what. Why? Because your success depends on your mindset, not on the economy or on the marketplace. How do I know this to be a fact? I’ve interviewed hundreds of top producing sales people all over the USA and Canada, and when I asked them the secret to their success, unquestionably and without a doubt and independent of each other, they all said the same thing, “My mindset.”

These are top producing sales people that have been in the business for 10, 20, or even 30 years. They’ve been through up times, down times, and all kinds of different markets, and they said without a doubt it was their mindset .When times get tough, people start to look outside of themselves for answers and what they really need to do is look inside themselves and ask themselves the question, “How can I stay positive, how can I stay hopeful, how can I stay optimistic?” This article will provide you with some tools to make it easier to be in a positive mindset no matter what.

The first tool is to really stop watching, or listening, or reading the news. Why? Because the news is based on negativity. The news amplifies fear and negativity in order to capture more listeners, more readers, and more viewers. The media is a business like anything else and there’s a saying called, “If it bleeds, it reads.” So the more scared they can make people, the more people will buy more newspapers to find out what’s going to happen, or turn on the TV more, or in some way stay fixated because they’re in fear, they stay fixated on what the media is telling them.

The second tool is stop being around negative people. Your colleagues are going to want to constantly come up and talk to you and tell you how bad it is. Maybe your clients or prospective clients are going say to you on the phone how bad it is, and even friends will do the same thing. You will go through a day and everybody will want to tell you how negative it is. Here are my suggestions. First, avoid those kinds of people that are negative and second, if you’re stuck with them in an elevator or your car, I suggest you do what a former client of mine does. When the other person is talking negatively, my client just tunes them out and just says, “Well that may be true for you, but that’s not true for me.” It’s like an inner mantra “It may be true for you, but it’s not true for me.” You’re creating your own inner environment.

The third tool is a technique that I’ve used with my clients this past 12 years as a successful business coach. It’s a very powerful tool called The Stop Technique, and there’s 3 steps to it. The first step is just called Stop. The way it works is that if you start to notice your mind going in a negative direction such as, “Oh I can’t succeed in today’s economy. Oh I just don’t have what it takes to be successful or to make money. I have to work really hard and struggle and sacrifice.” Any of those negative thoughts that will bring your energy down, your job is simply to catch those as early as you can in the beginning and say, “Stop.” Take a deep breath, and then put in a positive new thought.

You can put in your choice of however many positive new thoughts you have ready in your aresenal. If some of your negative statements are about yourself like, “I’m not good enough, or I’m not smart enough, or I’m not experienced enough,” or whatever those kind of disproving thoughts, I would say a really good generic thought to put in, an empowered belief to put in is, “I love and approve of myself unconditionally.” That takes care of those self judgmental statements. Another kind of self limiting belief is something that you continually tell yourself, “Oh well, to succeed I’m going to have to really struggle, and sacrifice, and stress out, and work hard, and then I won’t have a life.” If that’s been your primary belief then you put a stop on that when you hear it coming, and in inside you’re saying to yourself, “I’m not going there. I’m not going there.” You take a deep breath and positive new thought could be, “I’m committed to working smarter, not harder.”

One of the things that’s great about this technique is that it really forces you to become aware of what you’re thinking from moment to moment, and it’s what you’re thinking from moment to moment that will create a negative or positive mindset. If you’re continually thinking negative thoughts either about yourself, or the market, or about money, or any of that, then guess what, you’re going real fast into a negative mindset. Then what happens is what you believe tends to come true, and it becomes a self fulfilling prophesy. For example if you tell yourself, “I don’t have what it takes to succeed in today’s market,” and you tell yourself that over, and over, and over again, your thoughts will create your reality and then you’ll find that you don’t have what it takes.

Henry Ford said, “Whether you believe you can or you can’t, either way you’re right,”. The way to create a positive mindset is to continue to bring your thoughts back to, “I can do it,”. You need to have unwavering faith in your ability to be successful. The way you do that is to retrain your mind. The stop technique is the most powerful technique for retraining your mind, but you may have to use it a few hundred times a day at the beginning. Your mind has been going down that negative track in a very undisciplined way for a long time and like wild horses that have been all over the place, you now have to reign them in and that is going to require a lot of vigilance at the beginning.

Real Estate Marketing strategies: Procrastination and the Fear of Failure

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:30:51 -0500

Did you know that 9 out of 10 business owners suffer from procrastination at some time in their career? Most of the time they are puzzled by this pattern they often stay stuck in procrastination for weeks, months and sometimes years not understanding what is going on.

Having been a business coach for success minded professionals for over 12 years, I have found that it's easy to release the habit of procrastination and get to action once you know what is going on.

I was working with a client today and during the coaching process she became aware that the procrastination was a kind of protection for her. As we went back to the origins of this behavior, she realized that in growing up most of her efforts to succeed with her parents were met with the attitude of, "it's never good enough". She had fallen into the habit of performing less and taking less action. This was her way of protecting against being disapproved of or falling short of her parents expectations. In this way the pattern of procrastination actually served her well when she was growing up.

I was able to guide her into realizing that the procrastination pattern no longer had the benefits it once did.

In fact her pattern of procrastination was creating:

* Barriers to reaching her goals

* Feelings of inferiority

* Anxiety over things not accomplished

Once she realized that the habit that once had so many benefits for her now only hurts her, she was able to install some new empowered beliefs such as:

* I am so happy and grateful that the only person's approval I need is my own

* I am so happy and grateful that I'm organized and focused * I am so happy and grateful that I enjoy doing things in a timely fashion

* I am so happy and grateful that as I give my business 100%, I reach my full potential

* I am so happy and grateful now that I attract an abundance of prosperity

Releasing yourself from the habit of procrastination requires some inner reflection to understand what comfort zone procrastination creates for you. Once you understand it's original positive intention, you can easily change the old beliefs and install new Empowered beliefs.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: 7 Steps to Make It Easier for You to Be Resilient

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:07:46 -0500

Did you know that every successful professional has one thing in common? They all possess a strong level of emotional resilience. Were they born with it? No, in most cases they learned it as an ability necessary for survival in business.

What is emotional resilience: It is the ability to quickly return to a state of poise, confidence and ease no matter what curves are thrown your way. How do you get there?

Here are the 7 Steps:

1. Have a strong level of belief in yourself: Know that whatever happens, you are offering to the marketplace something that is extremely valuable. Know your uniqueness and communicate it clearly.

2. Have strong boundaries: You don’t need emotional walls in business but you do need to set and maintain strong boundaries. This especially includes the ability to say “no”.

3. Always go for a win/win: Give yourself permission to know what you want and go for it. Make sure it is a win/win. Rule of thumb---if the interaction is not going to be a win/win, refuse to be involved in it.

4. Keep an attitude of high intentions and low attachment: When you’re in negotiation, you need to be strong and assertive with a high intention to succeed. It may sound paradoxical but you must be detached from the outcome, knowing that you did your best.

5. Remain focused on the task and keep your emotions in check: In your personal life, live it up! Have a ball! Allow yourself to laugh, cry and get angry. It’s good for your soul. However, in your business life, keep cool and keep your emotions in check. This will make it easier for you to attend to the task at hand.

6. Stop trying to make your clients into your friends: If you really want to be emotionally resilient, don’t create dual relationships. They tempt you to get emotionally involved and then take everything personally. To be resilient, you need to stay impersonal, i. e. centered and calm.

7. Create positive self-talk: Don’t let your Inner Critic run the show. Develop the voice of your Inner Ally so that you are always tuned into positive self talk. You’ll hear statements like : “Good Job” or “Don’t sweat the small stuff”.

How good are you at keeping your Inner Critic at bay and filling up your mind with positive self- talk, like “I’m proud of myself for…”?

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: Why is it that even the very best receive coaching?

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:27:53 -0500

Have you ever wondered why even the very best, in any profession receive coaching? Have you ever thought about why a top-notch athlete, like Tiger Woods, would need coaching?

Why is it that so many successful real estate agents have used coaching to get to the top? There's a saying that “7% of all the agents do 93% of all the business… and the rest don't have coaches.” What do the top 7% know that the 93% don't know? This article will answer this question and many more about why even the very best receive coaching.

What is coaching?

When coaching first became a profession about 15 years ago, people didn’t know what it meant to have a coach. If you told them you had a coach, they would ask, “What sport are you in?”

In 1995, Newsweek ran an article that predicted that coaching would become the fastest-growing profession. Not only that, but instead of people asking, “What’s coaching?” they would be asking, “Who is your coach?”

That prediction has come true. Coaching has become the fastest growing profession.

Why do real estate agents often work with Business Coaches? Having been a real estate business Coach for over 12 years, I have noticed the profound need that real estate agents have for a Business Coach.

Why is this?

• Real estate agents, always need to be “on”, they are always selling to the public. If you are real estate agent, you know this to be true. Your level of confidence needs to be continually high to attract clients.

• You are aware of how easy it is to get distracted. There are always multiple demands on your time. Many agents come to me complaining that they are feeling scattered and they want my help to get focused and stay focused.

• Prospecting is a big part of your work, and unless you are a natural extrovert, it takes a lot to pick up the phone and start calling people. I am amazed at how many agents, when they first come to me, are even scared to call up their former clients or their sphere of influence.

• Using the right marketing strategies is imperative. If you are spending a lot of time and money on the wrong ones, you’re in big trouble and a coach can spot that mistake right away and help you make the right decisions.

• With the changing market, mindset has become more important than ever. A negative view of today’s current market will lower your confidence significantly, reducing your sales and overall income. Now more than ever, real estate agents need coaches to help them see the opportunities in every market.

• If you are a seasoned agent, you know how easy it is to fall into a slump or “hit the wall” as someone was telling me today. When you hit the wall, it’s somewhat like being in quicksand. Try as you might, you can’t pull yourself out.

• Last but not least, there is the issue of support. As a real estate agent, think of how many people you support on a daily basis. You are the support for all of your clients, all of your former clients, all of your prospects, and if you have kids, you are their support as well.

Who supports you? Who can you count on to lean on for yourself? This is where coaching fills a big need. When you have a coach, you have a committed ally, someone who is in your corner from week to week and is rooting for your success. How supportive do you think that feels? In addition, the coach can help you to see your “blind spots” and move past them.

Why do some people “resist” receiving coaching?

A reason that people often give is “I can't afford it.” This actually turns out to be bogus, for the simple reason that coaching pays for itself. I ask my clients to think of how many transactions they need to close to pay for coaching. The answer is always the same. “The coaching pays for itself.” Why? Because one transaction will cover the cost of coaching many times over. So if money is not the real reason, then why do people resist something that would help them? In my 12 years of coaching, plus my 20 years before that of being a psychologist, I have noticed that the real reasons people resist coaching are issues that they are unaware of.

Here’s what I have discovered:

• Most people have a hidden belief that goes like this, “I have to do it alone.” The idea of having someone help them does not fit in with their mindset. They think it means that they are not as good as they should be. I always remind these people that even Tiger Woods has a coach. Why? Because he has blind spots and we all have blind spots.

• Many people unknowingly have a block about “receiving.” Have you noticed that some people cannot even receive a compliment? These same people pride themselves in being givers. There’s nothing wrong with being a giver, but unless you can also receive, you are not in balance. Stephen Covey advises us, “Make sure that every interaction is a win/win.” In other words, you should be giving and receiving and being open to receiving guidance.

If your business is growing steadily, year after year, you probably don’t need a business Coach, unless you feel unbalanced between your personal and professional life.

On the other hand, if you’ve been struggling with getting more clients, getting more listings, and having a balanced lifestyle, then it’s time to let go of the belief that you can do it alone. It’s time to receive help from a coach or a mentor.

Be sure that whoever you choose, has plenty of experience, and specializes in the particular issues that are currently a challenge for you.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - Are You Sabotaging Your Own Success?

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:53:47 -0500

Have you ever felt like you had reached a plateau and could go no higher? If so, you're not alone, many people sabotage their own success. This article teaches you how to reverse self sabotage.

In my work as a real estate business coach for the past 12+ years, I have had many people present a similar question, "Why can't I be more successful? Why do I stop myself? I feel like I am my own worst enemy." If you've ever felt this way, you're probably suffering from a pattern of self sabotage in which you get in your own way. While on the one hand, your conscious mind is saying," I want to be more successful," your subconscious mind is caught in a "Fear of Success syndrome".

There are several things that cause people to be afraid of success:

1. They associate success with stress:

It's a prevailing idea in our society that if you want to be successful, you have to work hard, struggle and strive. Many of my clients have done that and reached a place of "burnout". Then they are faced with the dilemma of wanting to move forward, but having a very unpleasant memory of what it was like before. They need to work hard at reprogramming the self limiting belief, "To be successful you have to work very very hard," and replace it with an Empowered Belief, such as "I am committed to working smarter not harder."

2. The next self limiting belief that stops people from success is "I'm not worthy or I do not deserve."

Usually we are not scripted to be successful when we were growing up. Rather we were scripted to fit in and not bring too much attention to ourselves. We often incurred criticism when we felt too good about ourselves and heard things like, "Who do you think you are?" Being boastful was considered conceited and a definite "no no". Many of us over generalized and made the mistake of thinking that we shouldn't think too highly of ourselves, and if we did someone would shoot us down.

The truth is that a healthy level of self-confidence is necessary to be successful. In addition, happiness is feeling good about you. If you've been carrying any of the old beliefs that make you feel unworthy, I urge you to replace them with empowered beliefs, such as:

* I am more than worthy of prosperity

* I am highly deserving of an abundance of good

* It is now okay for me to feel good about myself

* I give myself permission to feel pride in the work that I do

* As I share my expertise I am worthy of being amply rewarded

Practice these Empowered Beliefs frequently to raise your level of deservingness.

3. The "gung ho" vs. " comfort zone" conflict

Let's face it; in order to be successful you do have to leave your comfort zone. Moving forward always involves some risk. However what many people fail to realize is that staying stuck in your comfort zone also involves risk. What risk? It's the risk of not fulfilling your potential, the risk of staying at a low financial level, the risk of never reaching your dreams. It all of us there is an inner struggle between the part of us that wants us to dream big, and the part of us that wants us to settle for what we have. Usually some inner "conflict resolution" will help you to realize that you can have a win-win between both parts of you. The "gung ho" part needs to realize that you need a balanced life with plenty of time for self-care and self maintenance. The "comfort zone" part needs to realize that the comfort zone is not safe, and that sensations that are labeled fear can just as easily be labeled excitement as you find the growing edge of your comfort zone and move beyond it.

To reinforce the balance of these two parts of us, I recommend these empowered beliefs:

* It is now safe for me to grow and expand

* I'm committed to creating success in a balanced way

Here's one of my favorites, "In an easy and relaxed manner, in a healthy and positive way, I create total financial success, for the highest good of all". Let this be your mantra and allow yourself to grow into your full potential with ease and grace.

Real estate marketing strategies: The Top 10 Self Limiting Beliefs

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:12:21 -0500

Did you know the # 1 reason why most people fail to reach their goals? Is it the lack of skill, lack of intelligence, or lack of motivation?

The answer is, “None of the above.” Rather, it is the presence of self limiting beliefs. Having been a business coach for the past 12 years, I've noticed that everyone has an abundance of self limiting beliefs.

Sometimes these lie dormant for years, but when you are building a business, they often stop you dead in your tracks.

I've noticed that there are categories in which most people have self limiting beliefs:

· Beliefs about themselves

· Beliefs about money

· Beliefs about work

Let's take these categories one at a time and discover the self limiting beliefs that live within each one of us.

1. Beliefs about yourself

Do any of these sound familiar?

· “I'm not educated enough”

· “I'm not good enough”

· “It's selfish for me to want more”

2. Beliefs about work

· “Work needs to be hard”

· “Work requires struggle and sacrifice”

· “To be successful I have to give up my personal life”

3. Beliefs about money

· “There is never enough money”

· “Nice people don't have money”

“People who have money are cut-throat”

· “Money will create a problem in my relationships”

If you recognize any of these self limiting beliefs in yourself, keep in mind that:

1. It doesn't help to judge yourself for these beliefs, so be compassionate with yourself.

2. These beliefs are not facts, just beliefs. 3. These beliefs can be changed, you're not stuck with them. At this point, you're probably wondering, “How do I get rid of these beliefs?”

Step 1

Make a T diagram by drawing a horizontal line on your paper and a vertical line. This will create two columns. Label the heading of the left-hand column, “self limiting beliefs”.

Then label the right-hand column, “empowered beliefs”. After you've written down all of your self limiting beliefs in your left-hand column, find the belief that would cancel out the old belief. Then write that in your right-hand column.

For example, if your self limiting belief about yourself is, “I don't have what it takes to succeed”, then cancel that out by writing the opposite of that statement in your right-hand column, such as,” I have more than I need to succeed.”

Step 2

Make a list of your inner and outer resources. At the top of the page write, “I have all I need to succeed.”

Then began to write down all of your inner resources, such as intelligence, determination, people skills and so forth.

Next, determine your outer resources, such as: a supportive office, a supportive spouse, years of experience, and excellent mentor and so forth.

Step 3

Become highly aware of your thoughts and feelings.

If you're feeling anything less than wonderful, then you're probably focusing on what you don't want, rather than what you do want. When you notice that, ask yourself, “So…what do I want?”

Step 4

Once you are aware of what you want, begin to visualize it and feel what it feels like to have it. For example, if you want to make $400,000 a year , work 30 hours or less a week and take several vacations within the next 12 months, visualize that. Close your eyes and capture the feeling.

Take a few moments each day to be in that feeling. Be sure to bring all of your senses into it.

For example, if you visualize yourself vacationing in Hawaii, then feel the balmy ocean air, the feeling of the sand beneath you, the warmth of the sun on your body and so forth. I'm sure you get the idea.

Step 5

If any self limiting belief opposes your intention to make $400,000 a year, work 30 hours a week or less, and have several vacations within the next 12 months, become a“loving detective” in yourself and find out what self limiting belief is opposing that.

In other words what is your counter intention? For most people, it is the belief, “I'm not worthy of abundance.” Ask your old belief this question, “What are you trying to do for me, by having me hold on to the belief that I'm not worthy of abundance?”

Most of the time, the answer will be, “I'm trying to keep you safe.”

When I coach my clients, I help them to see the origin of that belief so they are able to realize the connection in their subconscious mind between perceived “safety”and stopping themselves from abundance.

Usually what we discover is that this belief was installed as a survival strategy in childhood. Once the awareness of that is available, we can reprogram or release that self limiting belief. I have my clients thank that self limiting belief for trying to be of service, and then release it to its highest good.

If you have been feeling stuck and unable to reach your goals, I would highly recommend that you practice the five steps shown above. Once you've released your self limiting beliefs, you will have unleashed your “unstoppable energy.” Success is created from the inside out. By doing this inner work, you are building a solid blueprint for success within yourself.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: 5 Tips to Feng Shui Your Mind and Get Your Listings Sold

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:41:42 -0500

Is Your Mindset Working For You?

In today’s changing market where the predominant energy is fear, your challenge is to be extremely vigilant about what you focus on. Why is your deliberate focus more important now than ever?

What are you giving attention to? If you’re giving attention to what you don’t want, such as lack, that is what you’ll be getting. It may also show up for you as attracting unmotivated, indecisive, and uncommitted clients. However, change your mindset and you’ll be attracting your ideal clients – clients that are appreciative of your services.

The Panic Problem

In my 12+ years of empowering real estate agents to reach their goals, I’ve coached many clients who were subconsciously attracting unwanted outcomes. They came to me feeling panicked and worried about market conditions and slowing sales.

They were diligently working to get their listings sold. But their tried-and-true marketing activities were no longer working. What was the problem? Their focus had shifted with their fearful state of mind.

Are you, as they were, preoccupied with things like:

• How tough the market is

• How there are too many houses for too few buyers

• How unlikely it is for your listing to sell

If you are, you will be creating the very thing you don’t want, which is that your listing won’t sell.

So what do you do?

The Power Solution

Sustaining a positive, high energy mindset is key to attracting your desired outcomes. Because it directly impacts your thoughts, beliefs and feelings, you need to work on your mindset daily to ensure that is working in your favor.

What are you doing for your mind? And did you know that you can create a feng shui for your mind to get your listed houses to sell?

Just as a house is more likely to sell when the energy has been positively enhanced with feng shui, your mind is more likely to create a positive outcome when you have been practicing the Law of Attraction. This powerful tool gives you a step-by-step procedure to become magnetic for abundance, sales, prosperity, and so forth.

Ready to go from panic to power? Here are 5 tips for using the Law of Attraction to help you do just that.

Tip 1: Create a Clear Focus.

Too often I hear my clients say, “I want my listings to sell” without being clear on what their desired sales scenario looks like.

I suggest visualizing your ideal sale. See yourself placing the SOLD sign and declare the number of days the home has been on the market. Ask yourself how the purchase price compares to the asking price. What is your income?

You get the idea. Be clear, detailed, and specific about what you want. Once you are, then choose to focus on only that. Channel your energy with the intention of attracting what you want.

Tip 2: Create Harmony Between Your Energy and Your Desires.

Feel what it feels like to already have what you want. When you do, the energy vibrations you send out into the universe match what you desire, attracting it back to you.

To create that matching energy, visualize in an “as if” mode. In other words, use the power of your imagination to feel “as if” your listings have already sold as quickly, easily, and profitably as you wanted.

What positive feelings are you experiencing? Most agents who do this activity say that they feel confident, satisfied, elated, exhilarated, just plain good, etc.

Whatever your unique feelings, know that the more you experience them, the more you magnetize the events leading up to these feelings to fall into your lap. So practice this “as if” mode every day.

“My current house sells and I feel elated, happy, and ecstatic. I have two transactions that close in the coming month and I feel accomplished, successful, and prosperous.”

Tip 3: Clear Your Mental Clutter.

Your energy needs to flow freely without encountering harmful obstructions so that the Law of Attraction will work for you. So clear away all self limiting beliefs. How? You’ll need to do a little soul searching, usually with the help of a professional coach specializing in this area, to uncover your subconscious opposing beliefs. They are our blind spots. They are below the surface of our awareness.

After you have identified these self limiting beliefs, reprogram them to become Empowering Beliefs that are in alignment with what you want. Here is an example of one of the self limiting beliefs that I often hear from my clients, followed by what it sounds like after I helped them reprogram it into an Empowering Belief:

Self limiting belief: “I don’t have what it takes to get my listings sold in a market as tough as this one” Empowering belief: “I have everything I need to succeed at getting my listings sold in any market”

Now, just how important is it to clear your mental clutter through this transformation of beliefs?

Think about it this way. You wouldn’t risk sabotaging a sale by inviting clients to view a home that was cluttered with boxes or furniture that block freedom of movement. Yet you are probably trying to invite business into a mind that is cluttered with self-limiting beliefs that constrict the flow of energy into your business and block you from getting the very business that you want.

Tip 4: Take Inspired Action and Allow It to Come to You.

Replace action based on fear with action based on intuition. There’s a very good reason for this. When you follow your inspired thoughts with inspired action – steps you are motivated to do by your inner nudgings or hunches – you feel good, energized and joyful. These feelings positively raise your energy vibrations and you become even more magnetic for what you want.

Here’s a tip: Find a way to quiet your mind so that you can listen to your inner nudgings. Chances are you’ve already experienced what intuition feels like, and you probably have acted on that intuition. That’s an example of inspired action. Begin to appreciate all of your thoughts and feelings so that you are more aware when you do get a hunch. Then act on it. What is your intuition telling you to do?

Tip 5: Follow the Formula.

Properly practice the Law of Attraction to get the results you want. Similar to feng shui, practicing the Law of Attraction requires understanding and consistent implementation on a day-to-day basis.

If you find this challenging to do on your own, know that you are in the good company of many others. Most of my clients find it much easier and more effective to have the ongoing guidance, support, and encouragement that a professional business coach can offer.

Whether going solo or with a coach, the bottom line is that you want to make sure you are correctly following the step-by-step process for the Law of Attraction.Why? Because with the Law of Attraction, “like attracts like” whether wanted or unwanted. To successfully become the deliberate creator of your sales success, become a master of the Law of Attraction.

As a review: Remember to work on your mindset every day to ensure that positive energy flows to make good things happen. Take care not to let external conditions control your mindset. Keep a positive, success mindset and expand the flow of energy into your business. The future of your business depends on your prosperity mindset, not the outer conditions, which are constantly changing.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - 7 Mistakes Real Estate Agents Make With The Law Of Attraction

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:46:48 -0500

The Law of Attraction is potentially one of the most powerful tools you'll ever have as a Real Estate Agent. Why? Because it helps you to train your mind into a successful and prosperous mindset. In other words, if you practice the Law of Attraction you're always looking at the opportunities for growing your business rather than the obstacles.

If you're not getting the results you want with the Law of Attraction, it's possible that you might be making these common mistakes:

1. Failure to switch focus

It may be that when you start looking at what you don't like about your business, i.e. the difficult clients, the “fallen transactions”, and the continual need to prospect, you may be focusing on what you “don't want”, instead of what you do want. The Law of Attraction states that you get what you focus on. Focus on the difficult clients long enough, and that's what you will bring more of.

2. Failure to identify what you “do want”

You may be spending so much time and energy trying to eliminate what you don't want, like unqualified clients; you may not be getting clear on what you do want. If you don't want unqualified clients, then what are the characteristics that you really want in prospective clients? If you're like most people, you want prospective clients to be qualified, committed, and motivated. Then focus on that. Whenever your mind wanders, keep coming back to what you want to create.

3. Focusing on current circumstances

According to the Law of Attraction, current circumstances do not have to define you. They are based on your old decisions and your old beliefs. Now that you are learning the Law of Attraction, you have a chance to start fresh. Never mind your current conditions, instead ask yourself, “What do I want to create?” Set your intention and don't waver.

4. You get worried about the “how to”

According to the Law of Attraction, “how to” is the domain of the universe. You don't have to know the details. You just have to know what you want, and why you want it. Let the Universe figure out the “how”.

5. You take “frantic action”, rather than “inspired action”

Frantic action is fear-based. You are being reactive rather than proactive. ‘Inspired action” means that you're listening to your intuition, rather than on your linear mind. Intuition will come to you in the form of “Ah Ha” and gut instincts. Inspired action will feel good and it will feel right.

6. You may be forgetting to “visualize”

In the Law of Attraction, there is the saying, “whatever you visualize, you will materialize.” It may be that in your business, you haven't taken some quiet time to visualize your desired outcome, for example, earning $500,000 a year on a steady basis (or whatever your ideal income is). When you take time to visualize yourself having the prosperity you desire, then you can create the feelings of having it now. Since like energies attract like energies, whatever you radiate comes back to you multiplied. It pays to visualize.

7. The biggest mistake people make

The biggest mistake that people make with the Law of Attraction is that they fail to do it consistently and effectively. For example, after watching “The Secret”, you may be inspired for a while to wake up focusing on gratitude. Then when the inspiration of the movie wears off, you may get busy and forget to be grateful for what you have. This is an example of an inconsistent use of the Law of Attraction. Another and more serious mistake people make in implementing the Law of Attraction is that they “wing it”. They have no systematic, step-by-step procedure to follow.

To effectively and successfully use the Law of Attraction, use a solid 5 step process;

• Identify what you don't want,

• Identify what you do want,

• Find a feeling place of having what you want,

• Clear your opposing beliefs,

• Take inspired action.

If you follow these 5 steps, perhaps with the help of a mentor or a coach, you will maximize the effectiveness of the Law of Attraction. The Law of attraction will no longer seem like a mystery to you! Practice these 5 steps consistently, and you will be building a solid foundation for the Law of Attraction to work for you.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - How to Make Your Visualizations a Reality

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:34:56 -0500

"Visualize your success" is something we hear a lot of these days. However, we don't always know how to make our visualizations powerful enough so that they become a reality. This article gives you powerful tips to do that.

Myth: "I'll believe it when I see it"

Fact: "You'll see it when you believe it"

The first step in any visualization process is to believe that you can have it. As an example, let's consider success in your real estate career. Before beginning to visualize your success, you need to believe that it can happen.

As Henry Ford once said," Whether you believe you can or you can't, either way, you are right." If you have trouble believing that it can happen, then most likely you are experiencing some self limiting beliefs that need to be cleared. Once they are cleared, begin visualizing yourself a year from now doing the following:

· Doing work you love

· Working the ideal number of hours per week you want to work

· Working with your ideal clients, i.e. what characteristics do you want them to have?

· Earning your ideal income (pick a figure that is realistic and optimistic)

Here's a typical example of what you might come up with: " I want to earn $300,000 a year, working no more than 40 hours a week, and I want to work with people who are positive decisive and committed."

Great. Now you are crystal clear on your desired outcome.

Next, put yourself inside of this visualization, and feel what it feels like. Take a few minutes where you can be alone, close your eyes and live the visualization, as if it's happening right now. What does it feel like? The more you breathe the more you are available to feel the positive feelings.

What positive feelings come up for you?

Most people report feelings like: confidence, fulfillment, security, peace, energy, joy, safety and so forth. Please note that by adding the feelings to this visualization, you are energizing your vision. Without this essential step, your visualization falls flat.

Here's another helpful hint: picture your visualization, as a moving picture, not a snapshot.

For example, visualize yourself going to the home of a prospective client and giving your listing presentation. Move it forward. See and feel them signing with you. Imagine finding a buyer easily and effortlessly. Visualize the look on your client's faces as you present them with a flawless offer. The final step would be to imagine yourself with the check in your hand, your name on the check and the exact amount.

Here's the key, imagine your desired outcome as if it had already occurred, with all of your senses involved.

Just to recap: To make your visualizations powerful and effective, do the following:

1. Believe you can have it

2. Put yourself inside of it and feel it

3. See the visualization as a moving picture, not a snapshot

Follow these steps and watch your visualization become a reality.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies: Are your Self-Limiting Beliefs holding you back?

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:09:01 -0500

Do you ever wonder what is holding you back? Do you ever wonder what is stopping you from having all the clients, all the money, and all the transactions that you desire?

Chances are that you have all the skills and knowledge you need.

Have you ever said to yourself, “I know what I should be doing, I’m just not doing it.”? That is a clear signal that you are being undermined by self limiting beliefs that may not even be conscious, such as:

"I'm not worthy of success”,

“It's selfish to pray for money”,

“Rich people are dishonest”,

“I should just be happy with what I have and not want more”,

“I am a failure and not worthy of money.”

Let me give you an example from a client of mine: Although his efforts to be successful were sincere, he had unknowingly been carrying around “anti-success” beliefs his whole life, such as:

“I don't have what it takes”

“I can't be successful like others”

“I have to settle for less”

“I have to struggle and sacrifice to make money”

“I'm not worthy of having money”

In our weekly sessions, it became clear that the origins of these self limiting beliefs went back quite a ways. A real breakthrough for him came during one of our sessions, when he recalled that as a child he tried extremely hard to get his parents approval. Because his parents were not forthcoming with their approval, he concluded subconsciously that he was a “failure”, and that he did not deserve success. This resulted in him never achieving the level of success he wanted, not getting the transactions that he deserved, and beating himself up continually with self "put downs”.

When he realized where all of this came from, he had the insight that his whole feeling of unworthiness was false. He further realized that it was not his fault that his parents did not approve of him, as they were withholding people.

He began to install Empowered beliefs such as:

“I am successful”

“I am worthy”

“I am generous with my approval for myself”

His assignment was to practice giving himself a generous amount of positive self talk everyday. In fact if he caught himself putting himself down, he resolved to intervene, interrupt the process and put in a positive new thought in its place, such as “I can do anything I set my mind to do.” Once he began practicing his Empowered Beliefs, he could practice the Law of Attraction without the interference of counter intentions.

Not surprisingly, his energy increased, as well as his clients and income. His story illustrates the importance of identifying and reprogramming self limiting beliefs.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - How To Stay Positive In Today's Market

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:15:27 -0500

So many real estate professionals today are wondering, "How can I stay positive in today's market?" Like any discriminating real estate professional, you realize the value of a positive mental attitude. Here are 8 ways that you can create and maintain a positive mental attitude in today's market.

1. Avoid toxic people

What does this mean? Who are the toxic people? Toxic people can be well-meaning people but when they talk to you, they are coming from a negative attitude about money, finances, and especially about the current real estate situation. They may be fellow real estate professionals who want to gather around the water cooler, they may be relatives who are just trying to protect you; they may even be friends and family. You will know if you've been around a toxic person, because you will begin to feel deflated. Here's your job: either change the subject or walk away. Better yet, speak up for yourself and mention that you want to think positively about yourself and about your business. If you see one of them coming your way find a way to avoid the interaction because it does not serve your highest good (or theirs).

2. If you've tried everything and exhausted ways to avoid toxic people, then you may have to set an internal boundary.

You can do this very simply by having your own inner conversation if someone is saying something negative to you on the outside. A great example of an inner conversation when someone is complaining about their business or about the marketplace is to say to yourself, "that may be true for you but it's not true for me." This can become your inner mantra.

3. Avoid the media

Why? Remember that the intention of the media is to sell newspapers and magazines. The more they can paint a negative and fearful picture, the more their sales go up. In fact there is a saying in the newspaper business, "If it bleeds, it reads." That may seem harsh, but pick up any newspaper and you'll see what I'm talking about. Why subject yourself to slanted, negative spins on the economy when you can find just as much information to point to the positive?

4. Successful real estate professionals do well in any market.

Were you aware of that? Knowing that fact, none of us can continue to use the excuse about the market being bad. In fact, I am coaching several clients right now who in the last six months have doubled and tripled their incomes. In addition to the right marketing strategies and regular lead generation activities, you could help yourself with this empowered belief: "I now draw clients to me who are ready, willing and able to make a transaction in the next 30 days."

5. Look for the opportunity in today's marketplace

There are many opportunities in today's market and successful real estate professionals are taking advantage of them. Did you know that Donald Trump is buying up as much property as he can? Why do you think that is? He is a smart businessman, to say the least, and knows that this is the best time to buy. Let your prospective clients know this and then say to them, "Let's get you a deal." Few could resist this invitation.

6. Remember that your success depends on your mindset, not on the outer conditions of the market.

"If you believe you can or you can't, either way you are right," Henry Ford. What mindset do you choose to nurture inside yourself? Do you want to believe,"I can "or "I can't". Your beliefs create your reality so whatever you choose to believe will become true for you.

7. Remember to engage the Law of Attraction as one of your most powerful tools

The law of attraction states that you get what you focus your attention on. Furthermore, your beliefs create your reality so choose your beliefs carefully. Here's a tip: instead of saying "I can't possibly succeed in today's market," choose instead to focus one of these beliefs: "I achieve whatever I set my mind to" "I am a money magnet in any situation" "I attract clients who appreciate and respect my expertise" "My success depends on my attitude, not on any outer circumstances"

8. Be proactive

In any marketplace there are always people wanting to buy and sell homes. They need your help and they need your expertise. Your job is to become visible to them. In today's market, they are not likely to fall in your lap. However with a good system of lead generation, you can contact them and use your intention to attract your ideal clients. Clear out any self limiting beliefs that stop you from picking up the phone. Follow the suggestions mentioned above and you'll be happy to notice that are only are you staying more positive, but also your income is increasing as well.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - 3 Mistakes to Watch Out for When Asked, "So What Do You Do?"

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:13:06 -0500

OK, so you’re standing in line in the supermarket, or you’re in an elevator, or you’re at a party, or you’re in a networking group. Sooner or later, someone is going to say to you, “So what do you do?” This is what you want, free publicity so to speak. However, how you handle this question could determine whether this person becomes a prospective client, a prospective referral source or just walks away.

This article exposes the 3 mistakes you could be making and why they don’t work. Then you’ll discover the ideal answer and understand why it’s important to use it. Here are 3 common answers:

Mistake #1: You say to little.

You say something like, my name is Jane Doe and I’m with _______________________ Real Estate Company. And then you smile hoping the other person will ask you a question. Probably they won’t. This is a mistake because you have made a short statement that doesn’t engage the other person’s attention. It doesn’t invite questioning. The other person may politely say what they do to fill in the awkward silence or they may excuse themselves in some socially graceful way.

Mistake #2 You say too much and ask for the business

You say something like, “My name is Jane Doe. I work for ____________________________Real Estate Company and I specialize in country homes. I love the country and I love to show country property. It feels so good to get outdoors, breathe the fresh air and help someone find a home they love in the country. So who do you know who is seeking to buy or sell a country home?” This is a mistake because you said too much about yourself, did not ask a question that would engage the other person’s attention and it’s way to early to ask for the business. You should be cultivating a relationship with that person. Remember, people do business with you when they know, like and trust you. With someone you just met, you’re still in the “getting to know each other stage.” The most you should ask for is their business card and give them yours. If you have a connection with that person and would like to contact them in the future, you might consider adding them to your Sphere of Influence and sending them an Item of Value once a month.

Mistake #3: You talk on and on about yourself and your career

I know this may sound hard to believe but you’d be amazed at the things people say when they are nervous and trying to make small talk. So someone says, “So what do you do?” and you answer, “My name is Jane Doe and I’m with ___________________________ Real Estate Company. I have been with them for 5 years. It’s a great company. All the people there are so friendly and helpful. I am so glad I chose real estate. I love the flexible hours and the income potential. This really beats my corporate job and ….” This is a mistake because it’s “all about you”. The only things you’re promoting here are (1) The nice atmosphere of your office and (2) what a great career real estate is . If you keep going you might talk the other person into becoming a real estate agent but they won’t be a prospective client or referral source. So, what should you say?

In my 12+ years of specializing in coaching real estate agents in doubling their incomes I have found one amazing answer that does wonders and I’m about to let you in on that secret.

Here’s the scoop. When the other person, asks , “So what do you do?” you need to ask them a question to engage them. The question is, "Well, you know when people are buying or selling a home how nervous and stressed out they can get?” Pause and let the other person respond with a “yes”. Then you say, “Well I take care of all the details and paper work, I hold their hand through the process and make the whole thing a relaxing, enjoyable experience for my client. My name is Jane Doe, and I’m a real estate agent with _______________________company.

Now, what do you think you’d feel or think if you heard that? Most likely you’d want to do business with that person. Why? There are 3 reasons: They didn’t talk about themselves. They showed that they have a thorough understanding of the issues and problems people face when buying or selling a home. They provided specific solutions to the client’s problems. When you give this kind of answer there are a lot of benefits. Can you guess what they are? The other person will be genuinely interested because you’ve engaged them. The other person will begin to trust you because you put the client’s needs before your own. Finally, you answered in a unique way and that sets you apart from the crowd. So the next time the person has a real estate question, they are going to call you because you have demonstrated that you care.

With those kind of benefits wouldn’t you want to use this answer, memorize every word and have it roll off your tongue the next time someone says, “So what do you do?” You bet you would. Just watch your income increase.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - How You Can End The Habit Of Procrastination For Good

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:38:51 -0500

As a business coach for real estate professionals for the last 12+ years, I often hear the same question from my clients, "How do I stop procrastinating and do what I need to do to pick up the phone?" This article will give you a strategy guaranteed help you overcome the old pattern of procrastination.

Here's the KEY: Pick a goal that is manageable for you.

I was working with the client this morning named Steve who had been feeling stuck all week and unable to pick up the phone. We identified that he clearly had an avoidance pattern going on. I asked that part of him to tell us why it had been preventing my client from making his prospecting calls. It very clearly answered, "30 contacts today seems like too much. Steve will fail, and then he will be criticizing himself. I don't want him to go through that pain so I'm stopping him from making the calls altogether."

We did some negotiating with his "avoidance part" and it wasn't long before a win-win agreement was reached. The "avoidance part", now called his Ally, was very agreeable to Steve making the calls as long as he would lower the number to 20 contacts a day when he sat down to prospect. Steve knew that he could do 20 contacts today, he done it before and he felt very confident of his ability to do that.

Furthermore, a part of him that had been preventing him from taking the phone was now agreeing to be his Ally with a brand-new job description. The deal was this: Steve's part was to get on the phone and make 20 contacts a day.

The Ally's part was to:

1. Nudge him to get on the phone

2. Praise him for his efforts

3. Protect him from self judgment and criticism

At the end of the session, Steve reported feeling energized and highly motivated. We worked out some action steps and accountability along with a set of empowered beliefs. With his new and more realistic goal of reaching 20 clients instead of 30, the procrastination stopped.

Here's a Tip: Procrastination is just another word for fear. Next time you are procrastinating ask yourself these questions:

•What am I afraid of?

•What self limiting belief is driving me?

•What is a manageable action step?

Pick something you know you can achieve, take action, feel successful, and use that as a springboard for your future action.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - Tips for Creating Success

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:01:53 -0500

Take a moment to think about the word "marketing". What thoughts come up for you? Do you wish it would go away? Do you start to think of yourself like a salesperson?

Do you have self-limiting beliefs, like "I can't market myself"? What feelings come up for you, do you get tense, do you get a knot in your stomach, or do your jaws clench?

Old beliefs about marketing:

Most people think of marketing as aversive and painful. "They make comments like, "Why can't I just do my work and have the clients come to me? I hate marketing." This is because most people have old beliefs about marketing.

Some of these are:

• Marketing is phony

• Marketing is begging

• Marketing is pushy

• Marketing is drudgery

New beliefs about marketing

Since our beliefs create our reality, It makes sense for us to reprogram any beliefs that would interfere with our success. Here's some way to think of marketing that will actually make you feel passionate about marketing. • Marketing is an authentic expression of who you are. If you are doing what you love, then expressing what you do with others is authentic.

• Marketing is actually the opposite of begging. It's a gift. If you give a presentation to a group, write an article or take a prospect to lunch, you are giving.

• Effective marketing is not based on being pushy. It is based on the Law of Attraction. Imagine yourself as a magnet, drawing appreciative clients for your services.

• Marketing is not drudgery. In fact, it is a great way to meet new people, an adventure into new friendships, and connections.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies- 5 Tips to Use Your Sphere of Influence to Double Your Income

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 26 May 2009 16:19:32 -0500

I find that so many of my clients avoid marketing when it comes to their sphere of influence. And yet statistics show that your sphere of influence can be the greatest source of referrals. This article show you how to dig in and get the “gold.”

Tip 1: Define and Rate your Sphere of Influence When is the last time that you took a good look at your sphere of influence? What is the total? What are the categories in that group? Do you have past clients, friends, acquaintances, people you hardly know? Before you do any thing else go into your data base and group your sphere of influence in categories. Do you know who in your sphere is likely to refer to you? Do you know who in your sphere already works with another agent? How many have moved away? Start deleting the inappropriate ones. Be sure to ask all of them this question at some point: “If you were buying or selling a home do you have a real estate agent that could help you?" If they say “yes” delete them. There is no point in continuing, they are not prospects. By keeping in touch With your sphere of influence as we will describe below, you’ll begin to find out who is an A,B, C, or D.

A= someone likely to refer to you

B= someone who with a little more contact with you, would refer to you

C=Questionable

D= Delete

Tip 2: Send an Item of Value to your sphere each month In my 12+ years of coaching Real Estate agents to double their incomes, I am amazed at the fact that sometimes their sphere never gets a mailing. Or sometimes the mailing is not well thought out. I worked with a client today who admitted that the material she was sending to her sphere was standard and boring. We brainstormed about Items of Value that would be interesting, fun and unique. So far she has come up with recipes and inspiring quotes. What do you send to your sphere of influence? Is it something you would want to receive and find valuable? If so, then I guarantee that your sphere will like it too. How many creative Items of Value can you come up with?

Tip 3: Overcome your blocks to calling your sphere Everyone I have ever worked with resists calling their sphere. They tell me things like

• “I don’t want them to think I want something from them”

• “I’m afraid they won’t like me”

• “I don’t want to be like a telemarketer”

The list goes on, but I think you get the idea. What you need to understand is that you’re a giver. When givers give to other givers, they get back. So, in other words, if you send an Item of Value , you are giving, when you chat with them and listen to what’s going on in their lives, you’re giving again. So at the end of the call, say something like, " Oh by the way, if you hear of anyone even whispering about buying selling a home, please give me a call with their name and number.” Then say, “I’ll be happy to send referrals to your business, as well.” Guess what? You’re giving again. After doing these calls monthly (after your mailing of Items of Value) you’ll begin to know your sphere of influence and they’ll know you. You’ll begin to learn which ones are you’re A’s, B’s, C’s and which ones to delete. Then what will happen is that you’ll be in their stream of consciousness. So you’re the first one they’ll think of when they think of real estate. Don’t be surprised if you get referrals in the first few weeks.

Tip 4: Be in the right mindset Don’t make these calls if you’re feeling anxious, upset or desperate. Remember, desperations doesn’t sell. So psych your self up in the right mindset. Think of your self as a giver and how happy they are going to be to hear from you.

Tip: if you have been thinking negatively, switch your focus to what you are grateful for. That usually puts you in a much better mood to pick up the phone.

Tip 5: Make it a daily ritual Just like brushing your teeth, calling some people out of your sphere of influence is essential. Even one a day is OK. Only call several times a day if you want your income to raise quickly. Decide when to make your calls and keep at it until you’ve reached the people you were trying to call. Expect that several weeks after doing this; it will feel a lot easier. An extra perk is that you’re going to be deepening some great relationships and you’ll experience the same pleasure of calling them us as you would with a good friend.

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - Taming the Inner Gremlin

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Tue, 26 May 2009 10:20:13 -0500

Have you ever noticed a voice in your head that puts you down?

This same voice finds things about you that aren’t right and makes you feel that whatever you do isn’t OK. In fact , you can never please that voice, have you noticed?

In the 30 years that I’ve been coaching people in confidence building , I have found that one of the biggest obstacles to marketing is that pesky little voice (sometimes it sounds huge) that brings down your energy to zero and stops you in your tracks.

This voice is sometimes referred to as the Inner Judge, the Inner Critic or simply the Gremlin

An example:

One of my clients, Mary, sounded tired and depressed. She said “I don’t know why but lately I have been doing a lot of self judging and I can’t get the motivation to gather prospects.” When I asked her what was triggering this resurgence of the Inner Judge, she explained that her birthday was coming up and she did not feel that she had accomplished what she thought she “should” have.

We did a short visualization and she described this “should” voice as looking like the grim reaper, dressed in dark cloak and hood. The grim reaper said that it was judging her so much because underneath it all, it wanted her to “get her act together and be happy.” She told the grim reaper that while she appreciated its intention, the strategies it used were actually making her miserable. She concluded, “If you aren’t going to stop picking on me then you’ll have to leave.”

The result? The Inner Judge (grim reaper) left the room and was replaced by what she describes as an Ally, someone who would always be loving and supportive of her. Her assignment for the week? You guessed it, letting the voice of the Ally give her positive self talk and remind her of all the good things about herself. By the end of the session, she sounded confident and energized. I’m betting that if she does her assignment , she’ll be back on the marketing track.

What is your Inner Judge like?

Here’s a tip, start to notice that voice inside of you that beats you up. Make a decision to stop identifying with that voice. In fact, whenever the berating comments begin, stop and take deep breath and create positive new thoughts. In this way you’ll be building the voice of your Ally. As you go through the ups and downs of marketing, that Ally will always support you and encourage you that “you can do it”. What positive new thoughts would you like your ally to say to you? One of my favorites is “I love and approve of myself.” Try it and watch the results.

What does your Inner Ally say to you?

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - Seven Simple Steps to More Clients in 90 Days

Maya Bailey (Maya Bailey, Ph.D. ) — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:33:58 -0500

In my work as a Law of Attraction business coach I meet with people every day who have dreams of creating success in their business. Sadly, most of them are saying the same thing, “I hate marketing, I just want to do what I’m good at without having to market myself. “ The truth about getting more clients is that it’s not that difficult, it just requires following some simple steps.

• FOCUS: How do you get to where you want to be unless you know where you are going? I always teach my clients a visualization technique in which they imagine where they want to be professionally in 1 year from today. How much money do you want to be earning? How many hours a week do you want to work? What kind of clients do you want to work with?

• STRATEGIES: Once you’re clear about where you want to be, you need to create strategies to get there. I tell people, “if you already knew what strategies to use, you’d probably already be there.” Strategies help you to chunk big visions into tangible, bite size action steps

• ACCOUNTABILITY: How accountable are you to yourself? Most people I meet in business for themselves, find it far too easy to slide in keeping their agreements with themselves. The magical thing about coaching is that when you have a witness to your accountability, you are much more likely to do what you said you’d do. Just knowing that someone cares and will ask you every week, “How did that action step go?”, is huge incentive to staying on track.

• DISCOVERY: As a former psychologist, one of my passions is helping people discover how they block them themselves and get in their own way of success. What I find is that everyone needs to reprogram some self-limiting beliefs, like “I don’t have what it takes to succeed” or “I don’t deserve to have a lot of money”. Another block is that most people suffer from subconscious sabotaging strategies, like procrastination . These need to be reversed. Finally , everyone I’ve ever met has a monstrous , overly developed inner critic, which I call the Gremlin. In discovery you learn to identify the voice of you Gremlin and learn to tame it way down.

• PERSPECTIVE: We all spin our wheels and get caught up in our narrow perspective. The best investment we can make in getting more clients is to have people around us that give us the option of another perspective.

• SUPPORT: If you are in business for yourself , you need all the support you can get. As you put yourself out there to get more clients, you are assuming the responsibility of helping these clients. Who helps you? Who do you lean on? It is invaluable to have a support team or a committed ally in your corner.

• CELEBRATION: How often do you celebrate yourself? As a coach who teaches people how to get more clients I find that learning to celebrate not only your successes but also your efforts is the way to a long a healthy career. By learning to stop, pause and validate yourself for what you’ve done keeps this process light , fun and exciting. Also, think of how impossible it is for your gremlin to beat you up, if you are busy celebrating yourself! It is one of of the joys of my work that I get to help people truly celebrate themselves.