We were "WOW'd by Jeanie Martin at our meeting Wednesday. She talked to the entrepreneurs in the group and pointed out ways that we could re-think our ability to be self-led.
First, Jeanie asked, 'what are you doing to improve yourself?' and second 'how are you being challenged as a leader?" Sound like simple questions, but taken to heart, can be a couple of powerful aids. Jeanie reminded us to surround ourselves with positive people, the five most influential people we hang out with should be those who are most likely to help us moe forward.
Second, Jeanie asked, are you challenged? Of course we all are, but are we "underchallenged", "adequately-challenged", or "dangerously over-challenged"? Making the best use of the time we have, to reach our potential while reducing the 'frustration gap' is a goal, Jeanie pointed out, worth working toward.
Finally, Jeanie gave us five areas of self-leadership to work on. Our habits, health, relationships, time and money are the areas that can increase or reduce the value of ourselves. Thinking of ourselves as a crucial commodity, being motivated by either pain or pleasure, we can all work on using the potential we have been given and using it to our fullest! Thanks, Jeanie, we were fortunate to have you today!

Yesterday's Leads Group II meeting included a great 'fine-tuning' activity. The group split into two segments, and each group discussed their invidivual opinions and experiences with their competition. Specifically, we opened up to each other with information about our biggest competitors and what they can do that we can't. It's an eye-opener and a great time to sit down away from your busy day to look more closely at your own business.
We're ready to grow again... if this blog interests you, send it to someone you know wants to grow their business in the Yorkville area.

They spoke about the intricacies and behind-the-scenes activites of their successful body shop.

Besides what one would expect, like body repair services, painting and insurance work, Yorkville Auto Body also offers some refreshingly different and very-much-needed services.

For example, they pointed out that their free 'used car' inspection can save you money and headaches. Just bring the car you are considering purchasing and let them give it a once-over. Another of their services, noted Colanne Schwemlein of Colanne's Tax and Accounting Service, is 'they even work on semi's". And, taking advantage of their large facility, Yorkville Auto Body can assist non-profits. Jane Tune of Quik Kill noted, "they use their business as a springboard to assist non-profits, like D.A.R.E., the F.F.A., Lions, and others". Clay Kannaka from Allied First Bank was also impressed. He state that he learned a lot about 'the high quality paint and great warranty'. Keri Gaul of the Ripple Effect had something to add as well. "I didn't realize," said Keri, "they did oil changes and brakes, and (I) didn't know about their community involvement"> Many of the leads group members were interested to find out, as Sara Fontanez, owner of Fontanez Photography pointed out, that "drug- and explosion-trained K-9 units are trained on site for several counties".

Thanks, Stephanie and Glen, for a great presentation and a delicious lunch!