We’re just about to wrap up a major product launch for my signature program, The Authority Formula.
It’s been absolutely incredible to watch this thing unfold. I created several free videos and training materials, allowing us to attract tens of thousands of new people to our community, and allowing them to learn about the program.
What shocked me most was the incredible response we got to them — over 4,000 comments on just one of the videos alone, in less than a week.
That’s comments .. not views. We got hundreds of thousands of views as well, but the number of people posting thoughtful, heart warming comments was amazing to me.
I learned a lot of things in this launch, but one thing I noticed was a crippling mindset that so many people have, keeping them back from their own success.
I thought I’d share that observation and see what you thought about it.
“Success Never Goes On Sale” is a quote that’s been around a long time. My friend Keith Cunningham says it a lot, and what I’ve learned is that it’s absolutely true.
And what it really means is that you cannot expect to be successful, unless you’re willing to pay full price.
That doesn’t have you have to endure years of sacrifice or pain — but trying to get there without doing the work is what causes so many people to fail.
They fall for the “get rich quick” schemes, take the “hot tip” they overhear at the bar and blindly throw money at it, and think that they can get ahead by hustling and being smarter than the market.
Instead of learning from people that have already been to the race, they argue and debate things they’ve never actually done or accomplished.
But I think the worst thing that holds people back is a sense of entitlement — that somehow, the world owes them something.
That they shouldn’t have to pay the price for success, because they’re somehow different and “due”.
I had someone email me, and tell me that I was greedy and evil because I wasn’t giving all of my knowledge and information away. They said that because I was charging for the program, I should be ashamed of myself. I should be letting people have it for free, and then people could pay me once they used the information to become successful.
I wish I was kidding.
It’s, because this is a person who does not understand the most fundamental rule of business and success — you have to create value for others before you can expect to receive.
The more value you create, the more you get rewarded as a by-product.
But most people, as W. Clement Stone once wrote, stand in front of the empty fireplace demanding heat .. before they’ve put any wood in, or lit a match.
Now, God bless people who have not achieved success and are still trying to find the answer. But as long as you’re in the mindset of being a victim, and that somehow the world owes you a favor, you’ll never be able to attract success into your life.
I don’t just say this without having tested what I’m saying.
In the past, I’ve actually let people come into my programs occasionally without paying the tuition, almost like a scholarship. I’ve set the rules very clearly that if they do, they have to work harder than everyone else, and that I have high expectations from them.
Inevitably .. WITHOUT exception .. the people who don’t pay to get into a program NEVER do the work. And of course, they never get any results.
And they usually have a long laundry list of reasons why they couldn’t spend the time or energy on it.
It’s heartbreaking for me.
I would love to be able to train people who are disadvantaged, and give them the knowledge they need to be successful — but unfortunately, it’s not just skill set and knowledge they need.
It’s an entire mindset shift that has to happen, and you cannot change someone’s mind .. just like you can’t ‘motivate’ someone else.
On the flip side, I’ve got students that found a way to get involved with my program, and have completely changed their own life for the better. It’s remarkable, and that’s really the greatest reward I get from doing what I do — watching people make their lives better, and improve the lives of others (especially those they love). There’s nothing like having a small part to play in that.
These were the people that NEVER let excuses or circumstances stand in the way. They slept in their car because they couldn’t afford the hotel, or they drove 9 hours for a 3 hour seminar because they couldn’t afford a plane ticket.
THAT is what ultimately creates success — because when you have an attitude of “whatever it takes”, the universe will conspire to bring you into what you are focused upon.
My friend John Assaraf likes ask the question ..
“Are you Interested, or Are You Committed?”
Are you interested in building wealth, in growing a company, in creating success in your life? Or are you committed to achieving it? I mean, willing to do ANYTHING it takes to make it real? Because until you flip that switch and DECIDE that you’re going to achieve it, not matter what stands in your way .. and then you follow through and take action accordingly .. getting what you want is simply a matter of timing.
Will Smith, the actor, once did a fantastic interview, answering a question about why he was so successful.
And his answer was simple. It had nothing to do with talent, connections or looks.
As he put it:
“I’m not afraid to die on a treadmill. I will not be outworked. You may be more talented than me. You might be smarter than me. And you may be better looking than me. But if we get on a treadmill together you are going to get off first or I’m going to die. It’s really that simple. I’m not going to be outworked.”And that’s what separates successful people from the rest — they’re not asking for a discount, trying to find a short-cut to success without doing the work. They’re willing to pay full price, do whatever it takes, and then when they achieve it .. well, it just tastes all that better. What do YOU think? Post a comment and let me know if you agree! ]]>
92 Responses
Greg,
This post is so wise and insightful. It reminds me that as much as I have a huge heart and want to give away my products, people don’t find the value until they have exchanged their hard earned dollars.
I am in the middle of conducting a test group of 12 moms with my Easy As Pie Parenting Method. They receive the manual, materials, a dedicated facebook group and I’m available 1 hour every week for live coaching calls. Huge value and only 50% of the moms are actually doing the work.
I will remember your lesson. Thank you.
Anamarie Seidel
http://www.ParentingChatCafe.com
The humorous and informative podcast for parents raising children in a new millennium.
When I got my first car, the agreement was that my dad made the first 2 loan payments and then I took over. He told me I’d look after it better when it was my money going to the bank instead of his. Yah right!!! It was my first car, I was going to take care of it no matter who was paying the loan. Well, when my dad was paying… this meant garbage on the floor, running the gas gauge to near empty all the time, and driving like there was no tomorrow. The day the money starting coming out of my account, the car had a weekly date with the car wash, was gassed and oiled regularly, and travelled at the speed limit (well, most of the time anyway!). What you take ownership of is what you take pride in. My dad was a wise, wise man. Thank you dad… 🙂
This is a great blog and one that eloquently addresses a point that will resonate with a lot of people. I’ve had that question asked of me a lot and it baffled me so many times how people just don’t seem to get a fundamental point.
The value of what is on offer is transformation. If your business is transformed by investing in a programme that will help you accelerate that process, then the question should really be: ‘why WOULDN’T you?’
Greg Well said, tis sad but true.
Hi Greg, I listened to your call last night where the question was raised about giving everything away for free. I was shocked, but I guess I shouldn’t have been. Life experience has taught me the same lesson as you articulated – unfortunately, some people have an entitlement perspective.
My philosophy, from a program I took in Calgary several years ago, is Be-Do-Have. ‘Be committed to do what it takes to have what you want.’ So what you said resonates strongly with me.
Thank you for all the incredible free materials you have already provided to everyone. That is more than any of us should have expected, but I am certainly grateful and know most others are as well. What we received is worth far more than our ‘entitlement.’ (but I’d still love to win an iPad 🙂
Wow, Greg…I have seen this mindset before; and I agree – if we don’t ‘pay the price’ for our learning, we don’t really get it. I liked you point about being committed rather than being interested. There is likely some work I need to do in that realm. Thanks again for all you do,
Annah
I also like the other meaning that I’ve derived from “success never goes on sale”, which is that “you can’t BUY success!”
At first, this may seem in opposition to this article, but in my mind it’s aligned. Taking a deeper look, we see that success doesn’t happen because you paid money, it happens because you paid “the price”. That price comes in many, many forms, and if you’re not willing to pay one, it’s just a tragic symbol, to yourself and to the world, that you aren’t willing to pay others. This is especially true when it comes to the symbol of money, since money is actually ONLY a symbol and nothing more.
I’ve had the same experiences as you Greg, and I feel passionately about this idea. Thanks for the great post!
Thank you Greg for your article. If we are not willing to pay the price for success, we will end up (in he long run) paying the price for failure. As Jim Rohn wrote, “The pain of discipline ways only ounces, while regret weighs tons.
Thank you again for all of your wisdom.
Del Hickson
http://www.TheLifeCoach.com
Yes, agree – you have to do THE work
Hi Greg!
Keep up the great work.
This post really says it all about success and failure.
Successful people “will not be outworked.”
Okay, back to work.:)
Bless you for all you do – many MANY of my clients
have raved about your “Authority Formula.”
One couple brought their values list to our VIP Day!
Thank you!
much appreciation,
Baeth Davis
“The Palm Pilot for the Soul of Your Business”
Hey Baeth – no time no talkie! 🙂 Great to hear from you .. and thanks for the comments. Glad the values process is getting out there!
This is so true, especially what you said about creating value for others FIRST, before you receive anything. This brings to mind a job I once had, where my immediate boss whined and complained that they weren’t paying her enough and therefore she wasn’t going to put in much effort to the job. But I looked for things to do and went way above and beyond the job I was hired for. Within a couple months, I was promoted above my boss and given a fat raise. The company president liked the qualities I demonstrated and rewarded me for them, because he saw that I “got it”, the principle of giving before you get. Just one example to support what you said.
I agree that unless one is committed to do whatever it takes, any amount of training means little. (whether it is free or paid for). Most people are interested. There also are people that have greater reasons why not that why to. Unless that changes, change is not really possible.
There are those who do not understand the process and they just want quick money no matter what the product is. BUT for those who really desire this info and want to do the work doesn’t mean they should sell their first born to buy anyone’s guru- product. There is a mentality among some “experts” that feels awkward and a bit elitist. A tone that is somewhat arrogant (let them eat cake) that I am finding a bit shocking. When true scholarships are given to a select few who will benefit not only from the program but by the mentoring of the people involved to raise awareness, then a true bonus will be had. I have lived on both sides of the fence and have a deeper understanding of those in need… Success may not go on sale, but perhaps a bonus of a few scholarships would be amazing! They do it in Universities… Just my take.
And Greg – just so you know – I love your work… I have benefited greatly from it. Thank you! I really appreciate you!
Good point Maryalice! I like the concept of scholarships, now just defining the qualifications…
Great post Greg. There are some who want it for free and I agree, if you gave it, that select few would never create enough to pay you later anyway.
Thanks for the kind words, and I agree – there are some that are great candidates for scholarships when it is set up properly. But people who want to do a program for free, or want someone else to “sponsor” them, is a sad situation. That form of looking outside of themselves for solutions is going to plague them their entire life, until they change their mindset.
Gregg,
This is an important insight that should not be overlooked. I have noticed the same thing in my counseling practice. When people ask for a discount,(which I usually tend to give)they enter the experience with a sense of entitlement that diminishes their effort and, in the end, they do not do the personal work that is required for success. Thank you for this invitation for everyone in your program to roll up their own sleeves and take responsibility for their own success. I love the notion that “Success never goes on sale!!! Great reminder to us all.
Greg, I cannot agree with you more. The majority of people want to be wealthy and have success in their life and feel they are worthy of it even when they are not willing to pay the price with hard work and commitment. I am a 23 year old female from Chicago IL, and I recently signed up for your Platinum training of the Authority Formula because I am committed to doing WHATEVER it takes to achieve my goals to help my family and give them a better life. I wanted to separate myself from the rest and get more of your personal coaching and attend the seminars you included in the platinum package. That’s why I chose Platinum, I cannot wait to create a revolution with my innovative business ideas fueled by your knowledge. I am so blessed to have heard of this training since It has already started affecting my business that is not even up and running yet, but with your guidance will soon have the advantage to start it off on th4e right foot. I cannot wait to start the training an be personally mentored and coached by you. I am not scared or intimidated, but rather I am eager to learn and to put into practice nuggets of information that you have been kind enough to provide for us through your free videos. I see value in what you have to share and want to be in the position that you are now that is why I want to learn from you. There is a reason why only 5% of the population has 95% of the wealth. It does take a certain mindset to succeed, and you have to be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve your goals in life. Why wouldn’t anyone who also wants the same thing I want not want to learn from someone in the position they want to be? You can’t put a price on the accumulative knowledge you have under your belt and If anyone ever has the opportunity to buy this knowledge I think it’s wonderful and it makes a lot of sense to do it. I look forward to meeting you. Much love and gratitude, Ruby B
Ruby, thank you SO much for your comments and your commitment to the program. I intend to exceed whatever your greatest expectations are! Looking forward to getting started.
I am truly shocked at that email. I emailed thanking you for the incredible value and inspiration you had given me. I am grateful for being introduced to you and can’t wait until I have $4,000+ to give you for the privilege and honor to learn from you.
I am so devastated that I can’t be a part of the program. I wish I could ‘make it happen’ as I really am a proactive person and have been thinking of ways to do so but I’m just not there at this moment… a couple of months and it may be different story.
I believe in a life dedicated to learning and growing… but also on taking action as without action you have not truly learnt anything. I am so grateful to Eben Pagan for teaching me about what I call ‘Value Marketing’. I have absolutely fallen in love with marketing thanks to him and devour anything that comes my way on the topic. I love knowing that I can really help people in life and it has become a part of my business model and part of who I am. You resonate so strongly with me because you have not only taught that in your pre launch videos but I can SEE it… everything I have seen from you is value plus.
I find it extraordinary that people will spend $37 on a clickbank product thinking they are going to get rich with some ridiculous passing gimmick but they could watch your video and read your blog and extract more knowledge from your FREE content about how to build a profitable, sustainable business model… but they can’t see that.
You need to learn from and model successful people in your industry and if you get to learn from them for ONLY $2,000 then you are getting the good end of the deal. The value to my life from spending $2,000 on Guru Blueprint is exponential. You not only learn the techniques and the skills but you also learn a philosophy and get to model a brilliant marketer, business man and person.
One of my goals is to have the money for the highest level of coaching that Eben offers… after seeing you Greg and researching everything I can on you, you are also on my goals list.
My goals are to make profits so I can spend MORE money learning and being coached by the great teachers, thinkers, businessmen and marketers.
If your philosophy on life is to GET everything you can out of it for nothing… then you will live in a scarce world and have a negative view and negative experience. That is their life and that’s the way they have been conditioned… it’s just unfortunate that every so often they infiltrate your life without invitation.
He wants your info for free… I want to have the money to give to you. I can’t wait until that day.
Thank you again.
Shannon
Shannon, thank you for the comments – and I absolutely agree about Eben. I relate to him on a number of levels, and we think a lot alike. He’s one of the smartest guys I’ve gotten to know in this entire space. He’s really weird (ha ha) but brilliant. He called me weird on a call we did last year, so now I take every chance to point out that he’s the weird one. Anyway, I endorse him absolutely, and since he’s the leading marketing partner for our program, I assume he would say the same. 🙂 Thanks and you DEFINITELY have the right attitude. As I said in the post ….. now, it’s just a matter of focus, and time.
Thank you for this truth that should really put a lot of people in perspective. I my self would love to invest without fear, and I am
sorry to add a “but” into this, but I just can’t find a way to do it
due to lack of financial resources. I collect a pension every month
which barely allows me to afford a domain name for the website above.
I do consider myself a good learner and smart. Sometimes I try not to
make excuses but, my finances are not to be ignored. In this world all
is about money. Nothing is free and, beware when you find something on
the internet that says “FREE”. Their will be something hidden behind it.
Even those who claim to know the word of God have packaged it into
a course or something and into the market, which the Bible warns. God gives it free, but you need knowledge, wisdom and understanding and the
right application to get your prayers answered. An online business takes
planning and time to develop. People rush into the next hot offer and again fall victim to online scams. Their is a lot to learn in the internet and it won’t happen over night. True, a real business needs investment whether online or offline. But some people like me, just don’t have the
resources to invest. I have a blog and hosting for which I sometimes wonder why have it if I can’t do nothing with it because of lack of knowledge and not very savvy technically speaking. So here I am, stuck in a world of merry-go-round waiting for my next miracle stop. You see Greg, I’m one who would fight and work hard for what I want and make my dreams a real living thing, but again, some have it and some don’t. Many have hit the sack with their dreams never realized because of financial lack. It’s really sad. Some don’t understand how hard it is for one to change their mind set form lack to an abundant mind set while living under such limitations that absorb and swallow every bit of effort to escape from this spider web trap that hold many. I have read so much it is not funny. I have plenty of knowledge, if you’d believe it or not Greg I do. I know exactly more than many would love to. I understand what’s going on in the
world in general including my own. Even why my finances don’t seem to favor me. It’s all a mind set and, a very tricky one. A lot of marketers have asked me why I never purchase their great offers and deals and, I tell them straight out that I can’t do it. My heart pounds out with desire to be able to afford some of the great opportunities to learn and grow in the internet and, I have to say good bye. If I had the MONEY I would more than glad pay what ever for knowledge and learning how to best become a successful internet marketer. One thing is true, that the internet is a cat and mouse chase . Those who make it, will have those who follow after there never ending dreams. Get a list and email the living days out of the starving crowd with new ways and promises for the next point and click product and list building tactics and so on for the never ending story. Every day a new comer in the internet marketing arena is born or on there way to becoming the next marketing promise. God Bless you all! If I get a break I sure will try your program. Thank you for your time!
Pete
Pete, thanks for your comment. I literally gave away more content and tools in my free training than a lot of people charge – and I’m very proud of that. There is a LOT of great information out there available that can give you the basis to get started. My stuff, Eben, and several others are really committed to giving before expecting anything in return. Here’s the key: It’s NOT about “internet marketing”. The internet is just the vehicle. A good business is built on the same basics as it has been for 100 years — delivering value, understanding the market, and connecting with the pain and problem so they see an urgent need to invest in what you have. The internet is just a vehicle, but not the solution in itself (which SO many people forget when it comes to ‘online marketing’ gurus).
I couldn’t have said it better. I have given away some programs in past, and it’s created that EXACT effect. Dozens of people not completing the work.
Lord knows it’s hard enough to get them to do what they need to do to succeed if they have PAID money.
If they haven’t, forget about it 😉
hehe
Thanks Greg!
Great article Greg, and one of KJCs many statements, rings true. when placing value on courses, yours and Kieths stand well above any others I have taken, and believe me there have been many. I met you many years ago around the time you had brought Kieth in for his first time into Calgary. My KUDOs go to you for your exemplary content, passion and genuine want and desire to help people. Although I haven’t been to one of your courses for quite some time (found you again recently) you still give so much value and bang for your buck, as you did way back when. It’s refreshing to see.
I like what you say in the article and it brings to mind another quote, I’m not sure by who, but “Nothing Happens Till Something Moves” Business or anything in life worth doing, needs action and lots of it.
Wow, some people don’t get it. Good training is worth tens of thousands of dollars if the R.O.I. is positive. For example I would easily pay $100,000 to go to Harvard Law School if it gave me $5 million in income. How about this critic writing to Universities in the Ivy League complaining about their tuition?
If you offer something for free, the value is almost zero and if you charge premium prices, people will greatly value whatever they paid dearly for.
Not only that students will not do the lessons and drop out, even if the material was fantastic, just because they did not make an investment. Besides how would you pay for your hosting, advertising and joint ventures if you gave it away for free? You would have no partners and a tiny audience.
Your critic is no business person and is unlikely to succeed unless he or she changes his attitude.
As you well know that persons comment comes directly from a victim mindset,they are playing the role well,if it’s any relief many are called and few are chosen,the chosen few decide not to be victims ,were all given that choice as was this person, clearly they passed on the opportunity,I can relate to how you feel frustrated as a coach ,if only they knew what you knew,well we all have our own path to walk and our own seeds to sow,at the end of the day we know the tree by its fruit……
I both agree and disagree with your post. I agree with the idea that people have to be willing to pay full price, because if you’re not willing to pay the price, then you don’t value the product or program as much as those that are willing to pay the price. However, I disagree with the implication that first you have to be able to pay the price, in money.
If you’ve given your training for free to people, with the understanding that they had to work harder than those that did pay, and they didn’t do the work; that’s because you picked people that either couldn’t do the work or weren’t willing to do the work. Either way the selection process needs to incorporate a non-monetary form of paying, and proving yourself worthy of the opportunity. You say none of the people you’ve given a free ride to have applied themselves, but I say you gave the rides to the wrong people. Maybe what you really need to do is to hold an essay contest for those who can’t pay, and have them tell you their story of “paying their dues”. Perhaps you’ll find that their are those who can’t make it happen WOULD work harder than those who paid.
Hi Steven — thanks for your comment. I didn’t mean that you have to pay the price in MONEY. What I meant is that you have to pay the price in COMMITMENT. And, not thinking that the world owes you anything and should give you things for free. Great point, and thanks for the clarification.
Hi Greg,
I fully recall that person who wanted you to give away the Trusted Authority package. I was the one who reprimanded them a couple comments later. Yes, I too wish you were kidding, but you made a great point and I saw the video of Will Smith. Hard work and commitment WILL separate the wannabe’s from the winners.
In your biz you have the tire kickers and the tire buyers. People who have a flat tire will buy your tires. The tire kickers don’t even own a car.
Steve, great comment and play on the flat tire analogy. I love it!
Really excellent article. I agree 100% with the ideas thrown open in this article. Many people in my circle also expecting that some one has to do something for them to get ahead in their trade/ profession/life. They think it is their birth right to get service from others. They quote law of attraction or the famous quote of Indian Monk -Swamy vivekanandha-that” those only live, who live for others.”
yes, we should do “action” after the thoughts and positive thinking.
Do your work.. the miracle is there in doing. As lord Krishna said in Bhaghavat Gita- “We have right only to do our duty and not on the result.”
-majji sashibhushana rao
corporate trainer
WINNERS EDGE, INDIA
EMAIL: [email protected]
Greg:
Well said. I was fortunate to learn this lesson from my father who is a hard working entrepreneur and still runs a part-time business at 83.
A simple story, my father carves and was working at booth for his local craving group at a country fair a few years ago. One carver had this lovely piece on sale for only $20 and it wouldn’t sell. My father told them to change the price to $100, the carver thought he was crazy but did it anyways. It sold in less than an hour at $100. People will pay for quality products/services.
You have given us all a wonderful blueprint of how to market a quality product; you’ve provided excellent free material and frankly are charging a very reasonable price for a 3 month program.
It is up to each of us to judge if the value of what you provide is worth the investment, if we personally are worth the investment. I believe it is and will be register for you program.
Heather
When I first discovered something that could help farmers and ranchers across the continent be more successful, I started by giving away everything I knew. I wrote all the instructions on my web site, I gave away free educational DVDs, and thought, “Now everyone will take this up and be successful.” I was so surprised that no one did. When I began selling the DVD for a nominal price a few people bought it. When I raised the price, even more people bought it. After talking to the people who received the information for free and comparing their results with the people who paid for it, I realized that people don’t do things unless they have invested something of themselves in it. I was shocked.
I think the free information I’ve gotten from you, Greg, has been really valuable, but I’ve chosen to invest in programs because I want the whole kit and caboodle so that I can be successful. I can’t afford to do everything I’d like to do right away, so I’m starting small and planning that the advantages I gain from the first steps will help me afford the next steps.
The one thing I really want to learn is how to value myself and my knowledge and products appropriately. I am constantly invited to give discounts, and sometimes I do out of fear. It’s a struggle for me to remember that discounting my work is harmful to me and to the person purchasing it.
Greg,
Your words are so true. About entitlement, I believe that’s what’s wrong with this country. Too many people wanting a handout. It’s really sad that our society has gravitated towards a free ride. I have always believed that you make your own bed, now you have to lie in it. We have the freedom to make choices and that is what is so refreshing about your message. Grab the bull by the horns and hang on cause we are in for the ride of our lives.
Thanks, Greg for all your insight and wealth of information!!
This line of work/profession clearly isn’t for this guy. If you were to follow his “logic?” we would wait to buy stock after it has made it’s earnings. This program is an INVESTMENT in ourselves, our services and message for the world with the possibility of huge dividends in return of we WORK IT RIGHT!
This article really resonates with me. I didn’t have the money to get the Trusted Authority program but did that stop me from finding a way? No. I found a way to pay for it because I have the mindset that I CAN do anything if I really want it bad enough. I totally agree that success is not free and that there is a price to pay. When I have worked hard for something or paid a price for something I wanted it was much more rewarding. When someone gets something for Free I believe they take it for granted and don’t appreciate it because they haven’t invested or sacrificed anything.
I have really enjoyed your trainings Greg! They are top notch and I look forward to participating in the program!
This is very interesting and I thank you so much Gregg for posting this. Entering college I had to work 3 jobs, I mean I worked my tush off so I could attend college. In working so hard for it I never failed a class, I had full skin in the game and nothing was going to get in my way. When you have a big WHY… the big HOW’s are always answered; you always find a way to get what you want. Thank you for sharing, you ROCK!
Greg,
I am absolutely thrilled to be taking your program starting next week. I didn’t have the money but as soon as I saw your promotional videos, I knew that I had to do whatever it takes to get into the program. So I made some calls, got very creative (and a little lucky), and was able to come up with the registration fees. If I didn’t use some initiative and creativity, I would never have had the chance to encounter a little luck.
I truly empathize with people in difficult financial situations . . . some by their own doing and others due to circumstances beyond their control. However, one’s attitude is always within one’s control and I, too, have little time or tolerance for enabling a victim mentality.
I wanted to share a story with you. I live in Canmore, AB and used to be the Overseas Program Director with a wonderful international relief and development agency based in town called CAUSE Canada. In all of the development work they do, it is always a requirement that the beneficiary contribute to the project in some real and tangible way. Now, they deal with some of the poorest people in the world (i.e. Sierra Leone, West Africa), but there is always a contribution . . . nothing is free. The reason is quite simple – people value and will care for that which they have had a real stake in creating. Further, I have seen where two poor villages in Guatemala received the same program, and the poorer of the two flourished while the one that might be expected to succeed languished. The difference was attitude . . . the poorer one dug really deep and as soon as an opportunity was presented to them they ran with it. The other didn’t put in the same effort and didn’t believe that it could improve it’s lot. Morale of the story . . . (i) while handouts work in a relief situation, they do not work for sustainable development (i.e. having an ownership stake by the beneficiary is vital to success); and (ii) good attitude makes all the difference. I share this story with you because this, I believe, further affirms what you are saying.
One last thing – I like the way that you took a negative comment and turned it around to a learning moment for others. Thanks.
Sincerely,
Sean
Thank you! This supposed to be repeated again and again and you sum it up so clearly and simple! I love what you do! For me the message is : Yes! You do it right!
Well, I know, but to hear it from you is so warming up and inspirating!
Be blessed
Vlad
Hi Greg,
I really can’t understand, why people who attend free seminars, videos, conferences, etc. DO NOT understand that you are providing some helpful tips because you have already do the homework and have travelled along a lot of experiences to be able to provide us with valuable information.
And such travel is not free, this is a business and if you provide us with added value there is a cost that MUST be paid.
You are doing an excellent job by helping us to learn and understand The Authority Formula for our business and I respect you and thank you for that.
Keep up with the good work and God bless you!
I found e-marketing videos for free – did nothing, no action from me.
I bought e-marketing videos for money – I did all steps and get some results.
But I have a sets of audio CDs with learning stuff which I bought for hundreds of $ and I still don’t use them. I even didn’t listened them. I think because I bought them from credit money (not earned money).
I wont write about my victim issue – let it be my problem 🙂 But yes, you are absolutely right, Greg. I am working on it.
I totally agree with everything you shared in this blog. The world is sadly full of people who would love to be at the top but forget that the have to actually climb the mountain to get there. Many don’t even take the first step simply because they over think all the obstacles along the way and talk themselves out of it. Climbing a mountain takes, courage, planning and determination.
Hmm Greg,
I once read that ‘without the struggle, the triumph will be hollow’. I guess the ‘mix-up’ is the misunderstanding in the Scripture: Ecclesiastes Chapter 9 verse 11. I think, God’s Wisdom is required to understand that Scripture fully. ‘…Wealth Does Not belong the Brilliant’, but The Bible also say ‘Prosperity of the fool destroys him’. The difference between brilliance and Wisdom must be appreciated, and when The Riches Man That Ever Lives, King Solomon is understood, I believe, a lot of the misunderstanding will be cleared. It is obvious that there is NO PRIZE without a PRICE! I wish I could put it better!
Not much to say, but i feel so privileged that i belong in this community.
Great people and great teacher!!
Clever and talented people can get the work done and be successful without being on a treadmill. I bet Richard Branson doesn’t say things like that, so there is nothing new here at all although I agree that you have to do the work but that is hardly a radical insight.
Hi Greg,
Thanks for all the good information on success in personal life and business you give away every now and then. As a direct result of your ideas, i have created my first ebook, though it was not that great but am committed to improving when i do it a second time. I gave it out to friends just to have their feedback and most of them liked it. I am also working on a physical decoration product i will test soon. I have now gathered the confidence to get my knowledge and ideas into the world. I just want to have the satisfaction of exploring what i am actually capable of doing while adding value to the lives of others, money will come when i add enough value and use the relevant techniques you give to monetize my passions.
I feel very sad that someone would have the audacity to send such an ungrateful email after all the value you have given. If the person knew how to do it, why did he/she subscribe for your newsletters in the first place.
You are changing the lives of people with your free videos and i am grateful for that.
Thanks for all the generosity once again and God Bless You!
Greg
Thank you for all the content over the last few weeks.
I have just signed up to your program – very excited about it and looking forward to starting next week.
It terms of “what ever it takes” for success and developing the right mindset, I know that you are absolutely correct.
My gut reaction to your program was two fold, Wow I need that, now how am I going to pay for it? Logically, I do not have the money.
Financially (though not in other ways) the last few years have been challenging. I have had to sell many of my assets including car, paintings and presently my house. So why invest in yet another program? Because as a friend said to me when I was looking to achieve something, “What are you going to give up?” (his belief is that our lives are full, so to create positive change we must give up something that we are currently doing or a belief that is no longer helping us) What I am giving up is to stop struggling financially and commit to success. There is no better way to do that than to commit money, time and effort to that end in a program that will hold me accountable to myself.
I believe that your program is the bridge to the success that I know exists for me and my family. Like you I made many millions of dollars only to see it disappear. Thanks to your Q&A webinar, I now know why! After listening to the webinar, when talking to my wife, I broke down in tears realising that getting it 90% right is not enough, 100% if what is required to become wealthy and stay wealthy. I had to find the humility inside to recognise that I have not got it right. That was both painful and liberating at the same time.
Once again thank you.
God bless you for the work that you are doing.
I look forward to meeting you personally one day. In the meantime I look forward to the start of the course.
In gratitude,
Ronald Howie
ps Having been gone through the family divorce court 31 times, I know what it is like to be personally attacked – not pleasant, putting it mildly. However remember that the person who called you evil is only revealing the world in which he lives at present. It is actually nothing to do with you. It only becomes personally if you decide to absorb it into you! That as human beings is a choice that God has given to us.
Welcome, Greg. I’m not your youngest student but my 75 year-old mind is like a steel trap (well a mouse-trap anyway) and I’m looking forward to the next 25 years of achievement after I have worked on your excellent ideas. Thanks for your contagious attitude. I will inspire before I expire… Three months of hard work coming up and I’ll love every minute of it!
Thank you Greg for having INTEGRITY, and being a role model to me, my wife, and I’m sure countless others. This world needs more people like you. I’ve been to countless seminars, and I have to say that just finishing the Authority Formula has givin me so many tools for success in my business. The most valuable thing you will take away from the Authority Formula is clarity and Insight. You will have so many new ideas for your business, you will be jumping with excitiment. Greg has an amazing ability to simplify complex ideas into simple steps that anyone can take. By far the best investment I’ve made in years. Thank YOU!
Jason
Jason, it’s been a pleasure working with you and I’m looking forward to seeing what you’re going to create this year. Excited for you guys and thanks for ALL your kind words!
Well said! the truth has power! getting clear, and then fully committed are a powerful combination for success. I look forward to working through the “authority formula” over the next 12 weeks!
Tim Kuntz
On The Grow
Greg,
Thank you for your posts and blog. I only read a few of them here and there, however the title of this post struck my attention. Thank you for the blunt truths here. It is not anything new or earth shattering, however it was put in such a way to remind me of what really matters.
Cary
Dear Greg,
A lot of people I meet have a “story”. A story about why they are not successful and have a “it won’t work out anyway so what’s the point” attitude. They tell it to every new person they meet. This results in a downward spiral into struggle and mediocrity.
My Story? I was in speculative recreational land development and was a multi millionaire on paper. I was close to cashing in when the recession hit and I lost it all. I told the story for awhile but when I turned 60 recently I realized the story was getting boring and was not going to secure my retirement. Out of this chaos a book was born.
Greg, your excellent information and your introduction to Brendon Burchard have been instrumental. My book will be for the middle aged (and young seniors) who need a guide to become financially secure when all the past effort has not paid off for whatever reason. It is based on good real estate investing practices and online information marketing.
Who better then elders to become “Trusted Authorities”?
Life has struggle in it. If one accepts their own “story” the struggle is seasoned with despair and never ends. Or one can struggle (work) toward the light and become an effective successful person in this life. Time is short, let’s get at it.
Murray Wood
Great insight Greg. I am trained as an Integrative Coach, and in my experience, there are many complex reasons for people’s motivations and lack thereof. This person is most likely blocked by unconscious old beliefs and commitments that created and perpetuate that victim consciousness. Debbie Ford has a quote I love: “Transformation is a shift in perspective.” As you said, you cannot do the work for someone else, but there are tools and processes to help people reveal and release those old habits and patterns so they can change their perspective and move forward to achieve their full potential. The key: willingness. If they are blaming others and the world, and insist on being right, allowing that stubbornness to run their life, they cannot open up to new opportunities and possibilities. I think that’s where the investment comes in—it indicates a willingness and commitment to step into the next level of growth. I am so excited about beginning your program. I am a lifelong learner, and when I see great value I can’t wait to invest, knowing it will catapult me to the next level. Ready for take off Greg!
Hi Greg:
First, I want to thank you for all of the information you have shared. You are clearly an insightful and extremely generous person. Yours is some of the best and most actionable information I have read in a long time. It is sad that some people are jealous or angered by the idea that success brings more, especially when the successful person is someone whom they can identify. I have seen, first hand, the damage that this type of attitude typically does. My fear is that the bad attitude of a few is souring you on a larger following; a segment of your audience who harbors no such resentment about your work and program. I encourage you not to classify too succinctly that people fall into one of two categories: those with or without an entitlement mindset. I fear that you may lose a portion of your following that may eventually benefit both you and themselves. Your guest on yesterday’s audio tape mentioned losing his livelihood due to the shift in his market of small businesses. I congratulate him for the decision he made and success he received through your program. He was clearly hard working and, therefore, bounced back from his dilemma. He is like many people whom I have met lately, whose jobs and livelihood were quickly swept away. They are hard working, searching desperately and doing everything in their power to make a difference in their lives and the lives of their loved ones. In some cases, they really do have to choose between food and your program. I am not suggesting that you offer your program to them at a discount, nor do I suggest that they are entitled to anything more or less than the next person. I just encourage you to realize that there will be some who will take a little longer to find the means to make the success you describe happen for them. Do not alienate them in the process. You are playing a vital role in their transformation.
Many thanks!
Linda
Thanks for this Greg. In the past, if I wanted something bad enough, I go after it with all I have got. I am tremendously inspired by the Authority Formulae videos and articles you have posted – and know within my heart that this information can speed up success in many of our lives. However, in my 40’s and bouncing back from a no-cause stroke 4 years ago, I now realize that life should be easy. It is easy if we are going where we are meant to be going and doing what we are meant to be doing. I can no longer go on a treadmill, but I am getting fitter than ever on a recumbent bike. I believe that’s a positive message for those of us who feel we cannot afford your program. In other words, we can learn from the plethora of resources you have already given, and find no excuses for what we feel we are NOT YET able to access. Our life may be taking a different direction to the same path (perhaps I will see you next year :-)). We can find no excuses for our path, our circumstances, or we may not see that the golden path is still in front of us.
With thanks for what you give.
Hello Greg,
First a HUGE THANK YOU ! I want to acknowledge your transparency in your work. When you published your own value scale and it read ACCOUNTABILITY on the top that spoke for itself :-)))
I agree with your thoughts and the other comments about giving things freely away. It simply doesn’t work. Yes, maybe a more sophisticated selection tool for a kind of “scholarship fund” could be worth a try.
For people who want everything for nothing, it could be worthwhile to listen carefully to the quality of the voice of their own INNER authority….
I am relly looking forward to the beginning of the course.
Thank you for your commitment to your work :)))
Gabriele
Agree fully and thank you for the article!
I would like to look at this from a slightly different perspective. You wrote:
“I would love to be able to train people who are disadvantaged, and give them the knowledge they need to be successful — but unfortunately, it’s not just skill set and knowledge they need. It’s an entire mindset shift that has to happen, and you cannot change someone’s mind .. just like you can’t ‘motivate’ someone else.”
Of course you can change a persons mind, there are tons of coaches out there who do exactly this. If you really wanted to help people (which I start doubting after this post now finally, too), you would do exactly this first. Instead of giving them your expensive training for free (which I don’t think is appropriate, but may be the prices for this kind of training aren’t either), give them a training where they can develop the mindset of successful people FIRST.
This is what all of us should have gotten “for free” during childhood and youth but unfortunately many of us didn’t as neither parents nor schools seemed to know how this works, just the opposite. It is certainly not useful to just give your program to somebody without this “Success mindset”, but it annoys me to just sort them all out as “the rest” or “the mediocre”. Does this make you feel superior? Probably, how wonderful that all of you have the right mindset, never mind the rest. I can accept that you want to make profit, but don’t give me this shit that “it breaks your heart as you unfortunately cannot help those poor cridders as their mindset is rotten”. What do you loose when you would be honest? They are not your target market and that’s it. Refer them to somebody who can fix their mindset, I am sure you know somebody :-). And it’s bullshit that successful people do not ask for a discount. When they can get something cheaper, they get it, and what do you think sweatshops are about? Isn’t that a discount on people’s workforce? I think, if at all, you should be ashamed of pretending to be the “good guy” when we are talking about straight business. Whom are you trying to fool?
Wow. Interesting comments. Thanks for demonstrating the “doesn’t get it” mindset better than I could ever describe. You didn’t even read what I said to attempt to understand it. I never said successful people don’t ask for a discount. Believe me, I am not ashamed about the fact I’ve helped thousands and thousands of people. I don’t pretend to be anything, and I’m not trying to fool anyone. And no, you cannot change someone’s mind. You can only give them the insight and tools to do it themselves. If you don’t think I’ve given people a TON of resources to help them change their mindset here, well then again you have not looked around. Over 200 posts and articles on this site, all tying back to becoming successful. But apparently those don’t count, because you don’t like my approach. Fair enough. Just think about the results you’re getting in your life right now, and whether that has anything to do with your “shitty” attitude. Sorry that I touched such a nerve for you.
Hi Greg
Outstanding REPLY.I think the more nerves you touch, will create more of a awakening in people.Everybody in the world should invest in them selfs first, whether its through your awesome program, or someone else’s the key is to keep improving ones life.If one cannot invest in ones own life who will invest in it!
Greg –
I am so happy to have found your program and look forward to the incredible 12 weeks and lifetime of learning that it offers me. After reading the post above I am even happier to be a part of this- if that is possible.
People change their own mind set only when they are ready. From your comments I see the tremendous respect you have for others – where they are in life and where they choose to be. One of my success markers is Responsibility – which is what your comment and article is all about. I am in alignment with your philosophy and program – I choose right.
As someone taught me a long time ago, if you don’t value yourself and what you have to offer, how can others value you? Also, you get what you pay for.
Thank you Greg!
Thanks Holly – one of mine is Accountability, which is similar to responsibility. It saddens me when people claim they’re not in control. There are countless examples of people who could have easily said they were too disadvantaged, but created massive success anyway. So I just don’t accept excuses from people, and that’s hard for many people to take. I don’t pretend to be the easiest guy to get along with when you’re a victim, but if you’re willing to do whatever it takes .. well I can help you! Look forward to seeing you inside the program and thanks for your commitment!
Greg – I’ve encountered so many of these folks lately that I’ve named them “CMVs” It’s short for “Cheap, Martyr-Victims.” The moniker makes me smile rather than get angry!
These folks are the whiners who want to nickel and dime me when I offer a service and complain that I’m somehow wrong if I ask for payment. I love working in the volunteer/community/contribution sector, but there seem to be a dispropotionate number of CMVs around.
I’m so looking forward to getting started with your Authority Formula program. My expectation is I’ll be able to work hard in a focussed way that helps me help others help their communities.
Cheers
JP Mason
CMVs .. I love it! Great perspective. You can’t help someone that doesn’t want to be helped (or recognize that it’s actually help you’re offering), and you go crazy trying to convince them otherwise.
Hi Greg, I think you have given a huge amount away already! I’ve learnt a lot from your free tutorials thank you. When people aren’t willing to pay they don’t understand what money and paying for something really is – an exchange of energy. It’s a pity that society has taught many people to not only expect that life owes them but that there is a lot of fear around money too. Its so deeply ingrained that such beliefs are difficult to shift on a conscious level.
Keep doing your wonderful work.
I have been following your offerings for some time now and remain impressed with them. I thank you so very much for keeping me inspired through writings such as these. You are so on point, I secure a tid bit and more from each and every one.
Thank you, Bill.
Hello Greg:
I love your material, especially the “who am I” packet you put together about money. You hit it right on the head about people thinking the world owes it to them. Most of the people that I know have that mindset. I never did and have always been like the Will Smith example. Nobody could out work me. My only difference, the majority of my life, was that I was working a dead end job. You are also absolutely correct about giving people the material for free and they still will not do the work. I always say that there are givers and takers but not many earners. You are also on the bullseye about it being a mindset. I will be successful that I know. My goals are lofty but achievable. My point is that sometimes that mindset needs to be developed over time. I have been achieving just that the last four years. Each and everyone of us are in different development stages, some of us never will, but all of us are capable, if the will is there. It has been said that often the most productive years of our lives begins at 40 on through the sixties. So it is not too late for most of us.
Hi Greg
What you say is so true, people in todays world are not willing to pay the price.They are sitting back and waiting for the world to give them something for nothing.It just doesn’t work that way, everyone of us are responsible for creating wealth and happiness.Life starts with every individual creating value for others!
Thank you Greg you an AWESOME MENTOR
I AM PROUD TO BE A TAF MAMBER
Hey Umesh – thanks for the comment and kind words! I really appreciate it, and wait until you see some of the new stuff we’re doing in the program. 🙂
Greg,
I have spent most of my life serving and inspiring people who need a ray of sunshine in their rainy day lives. Ironically, my path has landed me in Seattle, Washington. I have friends and clients who refer to me as “sunshine in Seattle.” I am truly passionate about my calling to serve and have answered with open arms (and a closed wallet). I have had a life blessed by many setbacks that have only increased my stamina and my fortitude to achieve at all cost. Money has never been my goal or my focus. I have always had all I’ve needed and I have been able to support my giving goals. I counsel most of my clients through barter and a promise to “spread the word and pay the sunshine forward.” I have done my clients and my business a disservice.
I am now beginning to realize how important cooperative investment is to the relationships I am forming with my clients (inspiring self direction to wanderers lost in transition). My shift in thinking from “I should be doing this for free to help people” to “this is an exchange of service for service” has really helped me align myself with a deeper understanding of this relationship. I now look at the payment process as an opportunity for my clients to support my mission and ultimately support those I reach through my own transition into the internet and technology world.
I sat in JFK International Airport a few years ago watching a monk collect offering from random people. They were all thanking him as they gave him money. I was curious why, but assuming that they were thanking him for prayers on their behalf or for serving in his position for the greater good of all. I approached him and made an offering. I thanked him and then ackwardly asked him why everyone was thanking him. The monk told me that receiving is a form of service. He was providing an opportunity for others to serve through giving. I have since shifted my thinking about service and offerings of money.
I have opened my doors and my bank accounts to those who want to truly engage in a relationship of exchange. This had made my clients more serious about their commitment to their own evolution, to mine and to those I support in a more legitimate may.
Thank you for the opportunity to support you as you support me. I am just beginning my journey through your program and I am thrilled to learn and grow as I prepare to take my mission to the global stage. Thank you again, Greg.
Suzanne
Very well said Greg. I encounter the same often. People who honestly think and believe you should give your value away and if you don’t you’re somehow “less than spiritual.” Yet it’s those same judgments and way of looking and seeing things that make it so obvious that those who refer to and perceive themselves as “being so spiritual” haven’t yet discovered the fact that there’s nothing that’s ever been in existence, is currently in existence or yet to come into existence that isn’t spiritual.
I’ve also found, like you, that those who claim they “want it free” when they get it, they “perceive” it as having no or little value and never use and/or apply what they get which only serves to sustain and support their “seemingly inescapable” non receiving cycle. Attaching a “value” to it, requiring that they exchange something they value for the value provided enhances the implementation and application of the value received. The kind of action which creates “greater and more pleasing” tangible results.
Dear Greg,
I enjoy this …
Everyone has a purpose in life, a unique gift or special talent to give to others. And when we blend this unique talent with service to others, we experience the ecstasy and exultation of our own spirit, which is the ultimate goal of all goals.
And YOU do this.
Thank you very much for inspiring.
All the best
Simone
I seriously think you guys are defending yourself and not hearing what the guy that started this response chain is saying. He made the mistake of making it personal to you and causing defensiveness, but I think I hear what he is trying to say, and I think it is valid.
People don’t have an entitlement attitude or victim attitude because they are intrinsically flawed as humans; it is a learned behavior. And in the West there is this notion that the only people who are victims are so because they “choose” to view themselves that way.
This attitude is not 100% true. My parents are both Polish holocaust victims. Real honest to God victims. And a lot of their attitudes of loss and victimization got passed on to me.
It has taken me a lifetime of reading and personal work to overcome the attitudes and beliefs I learned from them. Solving the puzzle took four decades of pain, agony and searching (I started trying to figure it out at about age 10.)
Only now do I feel I have chance of moving beyond what my family culture imbued me with, but I first had to identify the problem before I could begin to try to carve out a solution. This why I am buying your program, even though I have to make some very scary decisions to get the money.
The victim mentality I harbored was not because I was flawed as a human. I had poor modeling and was poorly inculcated. I am not alone. They (we) need help.
Hi Richard – I hear what you’re saying. My point is, every day you choose to be a victim, or a victor. There are people that endure tragedy and horrific experiences beyond what most people could handle. Yet, some move through it and gain POWER from it, whereas many people use it as a reason to excuse themselves from achieving or growing. This isn’t about defending or saying anyone’s wrong. It’s simply a fact that we all are given tools in life to make choices, and to make decisions that will change our outcomes.
Clearly, there is a lot of emotion and deep psychological matter that many people have to deal with, and many cannot do it on their own. But the difference is between people that feel they’re owed the help because of their experience, and those who DECIDE they’re going to seek out the help in spite of their past.
Unfortunately, society (and North America in particular) has created an environment of entitlement, expectation and short cuts. And until someone gives those up and realizes that (1) I can achieve anything if I’m willing to commit to doing whatever it takes, and (2) as long as I keep telling my story, my future will look the same .. then nothing WILL change.
It takes massive courage, which I’ve said before. But ultimately, people ARE in control of their future. And no matter how sad, hard or horrible someone’s past is, they make the choice whether it imprisons them, or empowers them.
Wow. Thanks for responding. So glad you acknowledge the reality that some of us need help to get on board. It makes a huge difference in how I view you to see that you are actually, actively responding to people. All the programs I have looked at before must be run by a ghost — no one is there.
Greg, it has taken all of my 55 years to get to the point where I believe deeply that I must find a way to create success on my own. It really has taken a whole life to discover why I was dependent. Now I must find a way. I have read hundreds of books related to my passions and dreamed of creating the ideal life but have failed at many attempts.
I think your program is my last hope at the 11:59th hour.
What I have to offer is over 20 years of effort perfecting a creative solution finding process for groups. It is based upon the research of Gerald Nadler at the Center for Breakthrough Thinking in Los Angeles about how the mind must work to generate solutions that actually work.
I have had a mixture of great success and difficult disappointments as an architect with this.
It is my hope that your process will give me the tools to find a way to make this marketable. If not, I don’t know what is next for me. I’ll give it all I’ve got — but I need to know in the first 60 days if I’ve got something for which there is a market.
It will take me more than a week of effort to scrap together the money for your program. Laura is holding me a spot.
Richard, I can tell you that you’ll get clear on whether there’s a market for what you provide. Likely there is. On the other hand, this (or any program) is not a magic bullet. But clarity is what you need, and clarity is what you’ll get. If nothing else, that process is worth the time and energy invested, because until you have clarity about where you’re headed, you’ll end up in circles.
Greg. I am extremely impressed with your personal commitment to your program. Your continued personal response makes your claims very believable and compelling. For some of us, $2,000 is a fortune right now. You should know that you have earned my trust to invest in your program.
Greg. If what I’ve got now doesn’t have an exact appeal, I hope you can help me adjust and create something that is wanted. I’ve got to get “the final answer.”
At age 55, I need to create real success. A job is not going to get me there. I want badly to walk a free man and have the resources to learn more and do more.
Richard, trust the process. Let go of the anxiety, and believe that you’re going to find the answer and direction. Having so much pressure on yourself doesn’t give you space to be creative. So, dig into the program when we start, enjoy it and work your ass off. You need to have faith and belief that you’re going to find exactly what you’re supposed to!
The most difficult thing I have ever done in my life, is give myself permission to BE My OWN AUTHORITY. Now, I give myself permission, to BE financially wealthy. This permission, has as of yet, has been a struggle. I feel so odd about it, and I simply haven’t put this piece together yet. I don’t “feel” as though I have the “idea” or feeling of balance in relation to money understood yet. The idea of not having it, “feels” scary and like survival mode. The idea of having it, “feels” like being alone in a large museum, lost and alone. Maybe, I would be best off focusing on the “feeling” of deliciously co-creating experiences of love, understanding and validation. The uplifting of the heart/soul and go from there? Yet, that is not a business mindset. I guess this is part of why I signed up.
Hi Greg,
Hang in there! As a teacher (for more time than I care to mention!!) I can reinforce from observation of success (or otherwise) of students, that there is a direct correlation between ATTITUDE and ALTITUDE. AND I have also learned, there are some people you can’t help! So be it. We love them and let them grow. When the student is ready, the teacher appears. Their time will come (or not,) at their own choosing. Your programme resonated with me, you provided free information and teaching to set up the path and I look forward to this next chapter in the Book of Life,
Regards,
Marg
Hi…Greg…thank you for all this. I am one of your students and am learning a ton. Keep up the Great Work 🙂
Hi Greg,
At a very late stage of my career as an electronics engineer and business owner I am put in the position where I need to develop good marketing skills. I will do this with enthusiasm as everything in life. While I am a novice when it comes to marketing, I am not a novice when it comes to self development and fully understand that I need to invest in myself before I can expect returns. I also realize that if I want to help others I need to be successful for myself first. When I go shopping for the best product then I have to be willing to pay for it and expect to receive my money’s worth. I am exited about your program because it fits my own business philosophy. While I always worked hard, I could learn something about the balance between work and play. I really look forward to working with you.
I am currently “disadvantaged” but this is temporary. I took your words to heart and realized that for a long time I fit the “Interrested” category. December of 2010 something shifted within me adn I found myself in the “Committed” category. For those who read this, it is amazing all the resources that have begun puring into my life since literally January 1, 2011…one month AFTER I shifted into “Committed” and “do whatever it takes”. I borrow transportation to get where I need and soak up all the free info from John and Greg as well as purchase what my meager budget will allow. I had to save for 2 months just to buy a $10.00 program but it is a start. We all have to start somewhere. I encourage all of you to find what inspires you and go after it with all you might and energy. Drop the distractions. Go for YOUR gold!
I completely agree with you here. When people are ready to take responsibility for themselves and their lives, then the “cost” of reaching their goals becomes immaterial. The value provided far exceeds the debit to your card. Its a lack of awareness, when a person believes they are the victim of their circumstances- for example- they have not yet arrived at where they need to be to value the information you provide.
I really like to see successful Canadian business mentors, so thank you, Greg, for role modelling that success exists north of the US border!
I like the expression “success never goes on sale”. The exchange of authoritative knowledge does come with a price. I have to say, though, that there are a lot of so-called “gurus” out there whose prices are hugely inflated and who do NOT deliver good value. As an investigative journalist, I have seen events where the highly paid speaker or seminar leader was just spouting a lot of hot air. I think there is a bit of a backlash developing among consumers in the personal development industries, precisely because of the explosion of “gurus” making empty promises, and this in turn makes legitimate authorities, such as yourself, sometimes come under this kind of cynical scrutiny.
One of the comments you made in your blog–that those to whom you gave a scholarship tended to be those who did not work hard enough or took things for granted. If they did, that’s unfortunate, but I do not think this attitude is true of all scholarship winners. I am in a post-graduate university program on a full scholarship, and believe me, I make myself work doubly hard in the program because I know what an honour it was for me to receive the scholarship funding. I do NOT take the program for granted and I don’t slack off. I don’t see it as me getting a “free” post-grad study program–I had the high marks, the expertise and the drive to qualify for the scholarship. I think the marker of whether a scholarship winner will work hard or not is not that he/she didn’t “pay” for the program, but rather it’s about what kind of person he/she is, what kind of character and integrity he/she possesses. And these days, integrity can be in short supply. I have known plenty of people who avail themselves of highly expensive seminars and trainings, paying the full price, spending many thousands of dollars, and they never do anything with the training they receive. So it’s not just the money that’s the driver, it’s the motivation and the integrity.
In terms of pricing in general, I like to think of it in terms of “right livelihood”, that wonderful Buddhist concept of fairness of exchange and the underlying ethics of the knowledge/service/financial exchange process. I think that right livelihood has to take into account the circumstances of the audience you’re marketing to. In my own case, I am an authority on how to create dynamic powerful books that readers will
Oops…. something happened with my computer as I was still writing my comment. I got a screen blip where the site went down and came back up again, causing my posting to be posted in mid-sentence. Oh the irony of this, LOL, as I was just writing that I am an authority on how to create dynamic powerful books that readers will treasure and read over and over again. I also teach creative writing, using an innovative program I developed that is unlike any other type of writing workshop. In looking at this through the lens of right livelihood, I have to realize that many fledgling writers do not have the income to pay fees in the many thousands of dollars for book mentoring, book coaching, editing, writing instruction, etc. Artists, writers, musicians, etc.–the entire artistic sector–are one of the poorest paid sectors in our economy (unless you happen to be a big celebrity). And yet we need these individuals to create beauty in our world. I have to set my fees within range of what I know my target market can afford, while pushing their buttons just a little beyond what they might think is possible for themselves money-wise, but not making it so prohibitive that they never get a chance to work with a mentor who can help them find their unique writer’s voice. My work is as much about creating joy in people’s creative souls as it is about showing them the path to publication. It both is and is not about money–and right livelihood, to me, requires that every entrepreneur with integrity, no matter what field he/she is in, walk this balance. Yes, I have given some scholarships to some writers whose writing samples showed tremendous promise but who honestly did not have the money to pay the full price for my program. None of my scholarship students has ever slacked off. Indeed most of them have gone on to get published, and were able to pay for subsequent training from the proceeds of the writing pieces they sold.
I think that overall your philosophy of money and value is very sound, but there are always valid exceptions that have to be treated on a case by case basis. I’m certainly not recommending being a pushover for every needy sob story that comes along–far from it–but neither is every story of need a marker that someone will not be committed to success if given a break. Your saying of “success never goes on sale” is both wise and valid, but success (embodied in the person of the authority in his/her field), can on occasion give a hand-up (not hand-out) to someone whom the subject-matter authority knows has the passion and the drive to do something really great, and just deserves a break in life.
To the combination of success and right livelihood,
Sharon
P.S. You’re so fortunate to live in beautiful Canmore. My son lives in Canmore and I use every excuse I can come up with to get out there to see him whenever I can!
I truly believe you are right because I wanted to get everything free but I have since learnt that you don’t do any of the work afterwards unless you pay for it and do whatever it takes. I am on a Disability Support Pension and I wanted to attend a Sharetrading Education Boootcamp here in Queensland. And an opportunity presented itself and so I grabbed it. Now I will be going to the Bootcamp at the Gold Coast in Queensland not far from where I live because some nice fellow made an arrangement for me to pay off the price of the Bootcamp at $A50.85 per week which suited me right down to the ground. But yes I did have that sort of mindset where I thought that everything should be free and even now I am not really over it because some times I feel that some of the products and knowledge should be discounted because I am on a Pension. But I suppose it is best that I start changing that sort of mindset right now. There is another mindset I want to change and that is about money. From when first received my pay up until now I have been a servant of money and my life from then up until now has been a struggle with the negativity I have for money. So much so that I just give up setting up a budget for myself because I put it in the too hard basket. I don’t drink excessively, I don’t smoke and when I was young I very rarely went out partying. So everytime I would try to work what my expenses were I still was finding that I didn’t have enough money to pay the bills when I was married. And as far as I could see I wasn’t wasting any money on smoking or drinking. I will soon be 60 years old and I will give it one more go at setting up a budget for myself. I am shy and don’t go out to any social events. I don’t play any sports but I am going to gym to do light exercises to help me with my disability.
Gosh, this was uplifting! I loved your part, but the quote from Will
Smith is so, “Will Smith”. Not going to be outworked….ME NEITHER!!!!!!
Most excellent, There is, for me, and, I believe, for all of us, a further dimension. That is a commitment that goes beyond personal wealth or personal achievement, a commitment to a higher, greater cause, ultimately, to serving others in some way.
It is what used to be called chivalry – a pledge to serve an ideal greater than oneself, and, to develop oneself to one’s utmost so as to be able to serve more, to do more, to be more.
It is a commitment to become our best selves, our truest selves. It takes great effort. Yet nothing is as satisfying, and transcendent, as going beyond ourselves in the effort to achieve something worthwhile.
But effort can be overrated, too. Sometimes we overlook the things that come easiest to us, that are the most joyful, and natural. It just goes to show how much we really do value – work.
I once asked a very successful man what his secret was, a question I’m sure he’d been asked many times before.
He said, “I hire people who are better at what they do than I am – and turn them loose”.
What brilliant instructions for growing an organization! There’s something very liberating about that approach. Inside of it is the critical self-knowledge that no one person can be good at everything needed. So it is smart to focus on your strengths, what you’re good at, what you enjoy working at – because there are other people who are really good at everything else. Only you can be you.
(I also asked him what he was most proud of. “Creating 3,000 – good – jobs.” he said. Great answers, both.)
The trick is to work with the currents of our nature, not against them. One of the strongest currents that is present in each of us is that drive for something more than personal achievement. Only by giving of ourselves can we become ourselves.
(This is no original observation. Everyone in this work – educating others about what really matters – speaks of this in some way.)
u have said it right