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"If you work just for money, you'll never make it, but if you love what you're doing and you always put the customer first, success will be yours."
-Ray Kroc, businessman
Money is not the be-all and end-all of success. First, love what you are doing and take full gratification in pledging yourself entirely to your work and the needs of your client or business. This outlook on your work can transform the level of success and happiness you achieve throughout your life.
"The secret to productive goal setting is in establishing clearly defined goals, writing them down and then focusing on them several times a day with words, pictures and emotions as if we've already achieved them."
-Denis Waitley, author and motivational speaker
Creating a clear plan is key. Start by envisioning yourself experiencing success every day of your life. You are more likely to commit to keeping promises and staying on your goal path by visually focusing on them daily.
"It is not what we get. But who we become, what we contribute... that gives meaning to our lives."
-Tony Robbins, life coach
A large part of being successful means remembering others in your lives and how each person helped you get where you are today. True happiness and self-satisfaction is not measured by material wealth or possessions. Rather, it is the way you influence others and how you developed your character that makes life significant.
"Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood."
-Helen Keller, author
Why do some things happen one way while other things happen differently? In order to fully understand why events occur the way they do, you must experience them first hand. Never just take someone else’s word for it; go out and live life to the fullest.
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In November 2014, Cydcor sent a group of representatives on a medical mission trip to Guatemala for Operation Smile. Our own Darlene Mitchell, Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Technology at Cydcor, wrote the following about her time in Guatemala:
It was thrilling to join such an outstanding group on the Operation Smile medical mission to Guatemala. Though I was unsure what to expect, I knew we would touch the lives of others and, in turn, be forever changed by the experience. We were fortunate to experience several aspects of the mission: registration day, child life/prep, surgery, recovery, pre- and post-op, and medical records processing. I enjoyed learning about and contributing to each aspect of the entire process.
Registration day was filled with beautiful souls and families anxious for help. The extended Cydcor and field team had fun connecting with families, playing with the children, and attempting to put the families at ease. With stickers, jump ropes, and balls everywhere, the children were in good spirits. The poverty of some was difficult to comprehend; while some children arrived in their Sunday best, others clearly had not bathed for some time. For example, I heard one young mother had a headache on surgery day so she went around asking for change to purchase some medicine. She asked the nurses if she could change the hospital beds to earn money for aspirin, and when the nurse offered her several aspirin free of charge, the young mother burst into happy tears at the gift.
On one of the days, I spent several hours playing with a group of toddlers – Gladys, Genesis, and William – in the Child Life area where we helped calm the children and parents before surgery. The children warmed up to me quickly, and after their surgeries I was fortunate to be in the recovery room ready to comfort the children, who often wake up scared. Gladys was the first one back from surgery. As she woke up, the doctor was holding her as she asked for her mom. When she saw me there, she reached out her arms for me and the doctor let me step in to receive her sweet hug. I talked to her and comforted her until she was stable enough for her mom to come in. Nothing warms the heart like a child’s embrace.
Next to return from surgery was Genesis. The nurses let me hold and rock Genesis for some time, and as long as I was singing and rocking her, she was calm. I felt honored that she recognized my voice enough to be calmed by it until it was time to hand her over to her mother. Genesis’s mom was so happy to see me with her daughter and so thankful for the work of the doctors and nurses of Operation Smile. She thanked everyone profusely as she held Genesis and left recovery for post-op. I am so grateful to have met these wonderful families and, in some small way, make a difference. The children will forget the surgery and everything they went through, but I will always remember them.
Given the chance to observe several surgeries, I found myself fascinated with the process as the surgeons worked their magic and changed these children’s lives forever. The Cydcor team helped wherever needed, from decorating and updating patient files to making connections like the ones I made. The professionalism and passion of all the volunteers and Operation Smile teams impressed me. As I spoke with the Cydcor team at the end of our journey, we all shared an even deeper passion for the cause and vowed to increase our efforts to raise money for this wonderful organization.
For additional information about Cydcor’s partnership with Operation Smile, head over to http://www.operationsmile.org/cydcor.
The following is a review by a Cydcor employee of How Will You Measure Your Life? by Clayton Christensen!
About How Will You Measure Your Life?
From the world’s leading thinker on innovation and New York Times bestselling author of The Innovator’s Dilemma, Clayton Christensen, comes an unconventional book of inspiration and wisdom for achieving a fulfilling life.
Christensen’s The Innovator’s Dilemma, notably the only business book that Apple’s Steve Jobs said “deeply influenced” him, is widely recognized as one of the most significant business books ever published. Christensen’s How Will You Measure Your Life is with a book of lucid observations and penetrating insights designed to help any reader—student or teacher, mid-career professional or retiree, parent or child—forge their own paths to fulfillment.
Why Cydcor recommends this book to future leaders: Christensen is known as a deep thinker, as well as a thoughtful writer, and his traits of deep integrity, thought and consideration comes through How Will You Measure Your Life. His main aim is to find the purpose and happiness in your life, which any individual can relate to. He examines how businesses thrive and fail and can also be resurrected, as an example of life lessons for personal lives.
Our favorite part:
Christensen offers three keys to success:
Whether you are looking for happiness in work, family or relationships, Christensen speaks to where challenges, not rewards, offer greater pleasure in our lives. Work, recognition and responsibility tends to increase our satisfaction in a job position, and while ‘rewards’ such as benefits, vacation and money merely reduce dissatisfactions.
This book is not a “self-help” book, but a book for people wanting to think about how to help themselves, and Christensen provides excellent resources and tools to become the best you can be.
For additional information regarding Cydcor, head to our Facebook page!
Cydcor is happy to announce two selfie contests that will be held during our next big event, Keys to Success 2015 in Dallas, TX! ICL owners attending the event will have the opportunity to submit a selfie on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #KTS2015. Entries will automatically be entered into a drawing for $100 cash!
Cydcor invites all attending ICL owners to enter the contest. If a group photo is picked as a winner, the ICL owner who posts the image will be awarded the prize. Winners will be announced on Cydcor’s Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/CydcorLLC) as well as Cydcor’s Instagram (@Cydcor) by 9:00 P.M. CST on Friday and Saturday. Be sure to follow Cydcor’s Facebook page for additional information regarding all the fun taking place at Keys to Success 2015.
The first contest will run from Friday, February 6th from 6:00 AM CST until 9:00 P.M. CST. The second contest will run from Saturday, February 7th, 2015 at 6:00 AM CST, until 9:00 P.M. CST. Winners will be announced at 9:30 P.M. CST on both days.
See you in Dallas for #KTS2015!
Terms and Conditions
Post a selfie on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #KTS2015 on Friday and Saturday and you will be automatically entered in the daily Keys to Success Selfie contest. To be eligible, entrants must be (i) at least 18 years of age and (ii) registrant attending Cydcor’s Keys to Success 2015(Cydcor employees are not eligible). Multiple submissions per participant are allowed. Profanity or inappropriate language or images, as determined by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, will be disqualified. One $100 cash non-transferrable award will be provided onsite at the event. First contest begins Friday, February 6th, 2015 at 6:00 AM CST and ends same day at 9:00 P.M., CST. Second contest begins Saturday February 7th, 2015 from 6:00 AM CST until 9:00 P.M. CST. The winners will be selected by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, and announced via Cydcor’s Facebook page at 9:30 P.M. CST. This promotional offer is not intended to create a partnership, joint venture, co-ownership or other association between Cydcor and the participant.
This promotion does not have a connection with Facebook in any way and is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. By entering the contest, participants agree to fully release Facebook from any and all liability.
When it comes to handling stress on the job, studies have found that 90% of top performers in the workplace are able to overcome negative reactions by managing their emotions in times of stress. The odd thing about stress is that it is an imperative feeling to have in order to make decisions, as our brains are wired in the way where it may be difficult for one to take action if not under at least some level of this emotional state.
It’s easy to let stress overwhelm you, and as the research suggests, it’s how one manages such stress that can be the key toward success.
The University of California in San Francisco has conducted multiple studies into how people handle stress. Their research shows that one quality many who handle stress well have in common is their ability to say “no.” Always saying “yes” can place heaps of seemingly unending responsibilities onto a person and can add unnecessary strain on both workload and emotions. Know and understand when you cap out on the job as far as your tasks, and be sure to communicate to your team or managers when you feel you are at the peak of your capacity. Don’t be afraid to speak up!
Exercise is an important factor in keeping stress under control, as when stress comes up at work, it’s usually the first thing that goes in one’s routine. Get your body moving at some point during the day--even ten minutes can greatly help release tension and get you motivated to conquer.
Another huge step in managing stress involves managing the negative self-talk one might engage in. Ruminating on negative thoughts, even ‘what ifs’ that might have occurred can compound stress unnecessarily.
Check Cydcor out on Bloomberg Businessweek for more information.
Cydcor’s annual ‘Keys to Success’ event is almost here for 2015! Every year, Cydcor and its network of independent sales companies and leaders come together to build on their excellent business skills, jump-start the year with new relationships and ideas, and recognize top performers.
To spark up our excitement, Cydcor is pleased to announce a special contest for the Keys to Success attendees on the Cydcor Facebook page! To enter, all you have to do is head over to Cydcor’s Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/CydcorLLC) and share your best and original “Keys to Success” in seven words or less. The prize is a $25 gift card to Starbucks! The winner will be chosen by Cydcor and based on the best response.
To win, you must be a Keys to Success 2015 registered attendee (Cydcor employees are not eligible). Multiple comments per entrant will be allowed. The contest begins at 12:00 PM PST on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 and runs through Sunday, January 25, 2015. The winner will be picked by Cydcor, and announced on Cydcor’s Facebook page on Monday, January 26, 2015.
By providing its clients access to professional sales teams, Cydcor continues to grow as the leader in professional outsourced sales worldwide.
Terms and Conditions
Valid entries are comments that caption the related post on Cydcor’s Facebook page. To be eligible, entrants must be (i) at least 18 years of age and (ii) a primary registrant attending Cydcor’s Keys to Success event (primary registrants’ guests and Cydcor employees are not eligible). Multiple comments per participant are allowed. Profanity or inappropriate language, as determined by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, will be disqualified. One $25 Starbucks non-transferrable gift card will be awarded onsite at the event. Contest begins at 12:00 PM, PST on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 and ends at 11:59 PM, PST on Sunday, January 25, 2015. The winner will be selected by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, and announced via Cydcor’s Facebook page on Monday, January 26, 2015. This promotional offer is not intended to create a partnership, joint venture, co-ownership or other association between Cydcor and the participant.
This promotion does not have a connection with Facebook in any way and is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. By entering the contest, participants agree to fully release Facebook from any and all liability.
The following is a review by a Cydcor team member of 'Money: Master of the Game: Seven Simple Steps to Financial Freedom' by Tony Robbins for Cydcor Reviews!
About Money: Master of the Game: Legendary motivational coach Tony Robbins authors MONEY: Master The Game: Seven Simple Steps to Financial Freedom. This is Robbins’ first book in twenty years, and now he looks to delve into the topic that vexes many: how to secure financial freedom for our families and ourselves.
The book is based on extensive research and on-on-one interviews with more than fifty of the top financial experts in the world—from Warren Buffet and Carl Icahn, to Ray Dalio and even Steve Forbes—Robbins has created a simple seven-step blueprint that anyone can use for financial freedom.
Why Cydcor recommends this book to future leaders: Robbins’ book is useful for readers of every socioeconomic status and provides thorough steps to becoming financially free. Robbins advises readers to create a complete lifetime plan using regular income and savings. His book delivers practical and invaluable information and essential practices for getting your financial situation in order.
For additional info about Cydcor, head over to Cydcor on Hoovers.
Our favorite part: Robbins’ long interview with Carl Icahn, notoriously known for giving sparse and short quotes, is especially inspiring. Icahn, an activist investor, is also one of the few power brokers on Wall Street who looks to take control of poorly operating companies and make those in management accountable for the company’s health as a whole. As a result, he aids businesses by making them more efficient. By reading his interview, you will understand why it’s important to follow the moves this man makes to create a healthy, inspiring company.
Musical leaders are responsive and energetic, always aware of changes in their own industry, adapting accordingly, and knowing what their audience understands and expects from them. There are a great many things one can take away from the stage into an office workplace.
Adapt
An old adage reads, “a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” Musicians often have to respond to surprises and adversity, since music like freestyle and jazz is all about how you react and adapt. Making a business run smoothly is always the goal; however, hurdles often can come and disrupt your plans; learning how to acclimate and react swiftly can often save a company.
Support
The best musical artists in the world know how to bring out the very best in their bands and support teams involved in setup and stage presentation. While there are times to rock out as a soloist, always remember to take a step back and let others on your team shine. As a leader, it’s important to understand that if your team did a fantastic presentation or project, see that they rocked out together, and let them know you appreciate their collaboration. Work with your team to encourage creativity in the workplace and showcase examples of solo excellence as well as teamwork.
Check out these 8 Great Work Habits on Cydcor's SlideShare today!
Audience
Musicians often create music first and foremost for themselves, but the ultimate goal is to let it be heard to a larger audience. Knowing the audience is key, especially once musicians become known for a particular musical genre. If they are known for rock ‘n roll, but play a new slower jazz piece in the middle of a concert, their audience might be less than thrilled. Your clients are the same. Know your own audience and the expectations they have for the service you are providing. Always work to provide them with something they want to keep coming back for, whether it be a fantastic product or simply great service.
Here's Cydcor's review of 'Thinking, Fast and Slow' by Daniel Kahneman!
About Thinking, Fast and Slow: Thinking, Fast and Slow is written by Daniel Kahneman, a renowned psychologist and winner of the Noble Prize in Economics. This book is also the winner of the National Academy of Science Best Book Award in 2012. Kahneman takes us through a tour of the mind and explain the two systems that drive the way we think. He explains the profound effect of cognitive biases on everything from playing the stock market to planning our next vacation—each of these can be understood only by knowing how our minds shape our judgments and decisions.
Why Cydcor recommends this book to future leaders: Thinking, Fast and Slow takes the reader on a very gentle tour during which he or she will see the pitfalls of inner workings of the mind. Kahneman's text is a very fluent page-turner, and without diving into deep and obscure details of academic journals, it gives a very good overview of one of the most important and radical research programs of the 20th century.
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Our favorite part: Kahneman introduces two mental systems: one is fast and the other slow. Together, they shape our impressions of the world around us and help us make choices. System 1 is largely unconscious and it makes snap judgments based upon our memory of similar events and our emotions. System 2 is painfully slow, and is the process by which we consciously check the facts and think carefully and rationally.
About Zero to One: In this #1 New York Times bestseller, Peter Thiel speaks of the great secret of our time: that there are still uncharted frontiers to explore and new inventions to create. In Zero to One, Thiel shows readers how they can find singular ways to create those new things.
Thiel begins with the contrarian premise that we live in an age of technological stagnation, even if we’re too distracted by television, computers and mobile devices to notice. Information technology has improved rapidly, but there is no reason why progress should be limited to computers or Silicon Valley. Progress can be achieved in any industry or area of business. It comes from the most important skill that every leader must master: learning to think for yourself.
For additional information about Cydcor, check out our profile on CrunchBase!
Why Cydcor recommends it to future leaders: At its core, Zero to One is a refreshing intellectual exploration into motives behind entrepreneurship. It makes the reader ask the hard questions, which if one wishes to be in business or become an entrepreneur, are critical for being honest and prepared for the industry.
Our favorite part: Thiel suggests that the entrepreneurs who stuck with Silicon Valley learned four big lessons from the dot-com crash that still guide business thinking today:
1. Make incremental advances.
2. Stay lean and flexible.
3. Improve on the competition.
4. Focus on products, not sales.
"These lessons have become dogma in the start-up world; those who ignore them are presumed to invite the justified doom visited upon technology in the great crash of 2000. And yet the opposite principles are probably more correct."
Learn more about Cydcor at our website: https://www.cydcor.com/.
To run successful business, it’s essential to reach out to prospective partners and clients on a regular basis. However, many of us dread the idea of walking into a room and introducing ourselves to strangers—so making those initial connections can be tough.
Networking is a great opportunity to make business contacts and recruit new prospects. While it might seem like a difficult task, in reality it doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable experience.
To ease yourself into a “networking mind-set,” speak to people everywhere you go. This is a great way to practice conversation, as well as your active listening skills. Get into the habit of chatting with folks without the stressor of needing to do a sales-pitch or the pressure of fellow colleagues around you. This will help you get comfortable with more casual conversation and will make it much easier when the time comes to go to a convention or event.
Make a positive impression by having an upbeat attitude, as people wish to work and connect with those who are confident as well as optimistic. This assertiveness will increase your chances of a lasting impression; however, always remember to remain genuine. Being overly gung-ho or coming across fake can turn off those around you.
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Follow up with those you connect with. At many events and opportunities, business cards can be rapidly exchanged. Keep track of those cards and when you have a new contact, be sure to contact with them via email or connect with them on a social site such as LinkedIn within twenty-four hours. A simple, “It was fantastic to chat with you yesterday!” can go a long, long way.