Two Busy Days

This past Wednesday I packed up my stuff and went to NYC to attend the Book Expo America at the cavernous Javits Center. The show seemed a bit smaller than years past but huge nonetheless. I brought copies of my five-book proposal and visited many publishing houses looking for a book deal. The big houses won't even look at you unless you have an agent (I don't have one yet) and the smaller ones are all very cordial, but still tough to crack.
I learn something every time I go to the Expo (this is my third event). I will submit my proposal to several companies who expressed some interest, but I am going ahead with my plan regardless of their acceptance or rejection of my work. My plan is to write and publish a "Simple Happiness" series of books.
The next day, Thursday, I had taken a booth at the Hauppauge Industrial Association Annual Trade Show, the largest trade show on Long Island. Still pretty exhausted from my treck in and out of NYC. I arrived early and got set up for a day of meeting and greeting hundreds of trade show attendees.
This was a very different experience from the day before. At the Book Expo I saw only two people whom I knew all day long. Here on my home turf the faces were much more familiar. My materials and message were enthousiastically met by practically everyone who stopped to chat. Books and CD's were sold, hundreds signed up to receive my weekly emails, video testimonials of my book and "Aha Moments" were recorded. Many prospects for speaking opportunities presented themselves and asked to get more information.
It's a thrill to be recognized as one who is making a difference in the lives of others. A number of folks stopped and commented on my "Aha Moment" of the day before which focused on Kindness. The atmosphere around the booth was energetic and very upbeat. People really do want to be a little happier. I am so blessed to be in a position to offer practical steps and inspiration to some who are seeking.
Thanks to all for lifting my spirits and showing me that I am on the right path.

I Hope You Dance

The Hauppague Industrial Association--a grass-roots, pro-active 30- year old business organization that focuses on the economic health and well-being of its member companies and that of the entire Long Island business community--held a talent content last month.

As a member of the association and a "ham" when it comes to getting in front of an audience, you might have already guessed that I happily participated. It was hosted by David Weiss of WLNY-TV 55 at the Sheraton LI Hotel. The distinguished panel of Judges included HIA co-founder and Chairman Jack Kulka and board members Tony Leteri of Leteri Waste Management and Rita DiStefano of Portnoy, Messinger, Pearl & Associates.

As indicated in the HIA Reporter, their monthly newsletter, my performance "delivered a skillful rendition of the Eagles’ 1973 classic 'Peaceful Easy Feeling'." One of six competitors, I was pleased to walk away in second place with a score of 10, 10 and 9, a very large trophy and my own peaceful, easy feeling!

When life comes at you with opportunities that may intimidate you, feel the fear and then do it anyway. You are likely to be pleasantly surprised with a memorable experience.

I share with you words of wisdom from a song by Lee Ann Womack that I sing at many of my motivational talks -- "And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance... I hope you dance!"

Jim