SHOT IN THE DARK

SPORTS HEADLINE-NY Giants WR Plaxico Burress was suspended for the remainder of the season in the aftermath of an accidental shooting in a New York City nightclub where he shot himself in the thigh. Burress was not seriously injured but was subsequently arrested for having an unregistered, loaded concealed weapon in a public place and faces up to 4.5 years in prison.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-As a business owner, whenever one of your employees does anything in public, good or bad it is a direct reflection of your organization. How you respond to it will go a long way towards public perception of your company and how other professionals who seek to work for or with you will judge you. By making a fully informed, measured response to any situation you position yourself as being fair to your employees while holding them fully accountable for their actions. A strong, stable, well run organization is often a victorious one!

EXCITING PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT

Daily Game Plan for Victory happily announces a new content sharing agreement with FasttrackScouting.com. Their site is a high school sports recruiting website offering athletes, parents and coaches videos, profiles, photos and more. Visit their sites, Company Website: http://www.fasttrackscouting.com/index.php
Recruitment Blog: http://www.fasttrackscouting.com/ftsblog/.

Below is an interview with Founder and CEO Erika Rossi-Raia. Erika has been the President of Fasttrack Scouting since its launch in 2003. With over 12 years of experience in professional sports she created Fasttrack Scouting to help bridge the comunication gap between athletes and coaches during the college recruitment process. She oversees all business, technology and marketing operations for Fasttrack Scouting, Inc.

Prior to Fasttrack Scouting, she was the Corporate Services Supervisor at RDV Sports responsible for the development and management of corporate sponsor contracts, special events, corporate marketing campaigns and sales materials for the Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears, RDV Sportsplex and Orlando Miracle.

In addition to her work at RDV Sports, Erika has had the privilege of serving as a public relations consultant to NBA, WNBA and NFL athletes including Dominique Wilkins, Anthony Bowie, Darius Washington, Darrell Armstrong, Mike Miller, Robert Harris, Vince Carter and many others. Erika is originally from Evergreen Colorado and graduated in 1996 from Central Michigan University with a degree in English and Advertising. She currently resides in Central Florida with her husband, Vinny.

Tell me about your blog and the inspiration for it. FasttrackScouting.com is a high school sports recruitment website offering athletes and coaches live streaming video, videos on demand, recruitment tools, sports profiles, action photos and more. The FasttrackScouting.com/ftsblog features recruitment tips and articles for high school athletes and their parents to learn more about the recruitment process and how they can achieve their collegiate goals. I worked with professional athletes for a number of years and realized that the market was saturated with expensive recruitment services that were ineffective. I wanted to be able to provide professional tools for students from all economic backgrounds and athletic abilities using state of the art technology.

Why is it important to give young athletes this information? There is soo much information out there and most coaches and parents do not know the requirements and steps it takes to get recruited. Less than 5% of college bound athletes are actively recruited by college coaches. The other 95% have to self market themselves to get noticed. I also believe in the power of positive thinking. If your goal is to play at the college level then it is my job to show you how to do that.

What developed your passion for sports? I have 3 older brothers that eat, sleep and breathe sports. When my friends were watching cartoons I was watching football, basketball and baseball. I was not as athletically talented as my brothers but I did play JV basketball and was a Varsity cheerleader in high school.

Who or what from the world of sports inspires you? I know how tough it is to play at the college and professional level. I have seen great players go unsigned or undrafted and I have seen average players rise to the top of the prospect list. In sports, anything is possible. There is nothing set in stone. Everything is constantly changing. I am inspired by athletes that hustle no matter what the score or point spread is. These are the athletes that don't act in anger when they are down but instead listen to their coach and encourage teammates to contribute and come up with a plan to do better the next time.

How are you able to apply lessons learned in sports to other areas of your life? If you can learn how to motivate yourself, ask for help when you need it and work well with others you will be successful in whatever field you choose. I have overcome a number of challenges working in professional sports and starting my own business. Early in my career I was afraid to ask for help from my coworkers because I thought my employers would think I was not capable of doing my job. I learned very early on that not only could I accomplish a lot more by working with others but I had more fun being a part of a team.

GONE TOO SOON

SPORTS HEADLINE-Today marks the one year anniversary of the murder of Redskins safety Sean Taylor in his Miami home. Taylor, his girlfriend and his baby daughter were asleep in the overnight hours when a group of young men broke into what they had anticipated to be an empty house to burglarize it. Taylor was recuperating from a knee injury and didn't accompany the team on it's road trip. Taylor was shot and killed while trying to protect his family from harm. Taylor, a Pro-Bowl standout on the field and well loved by his teammates was 24 years old at the time of his death.


PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-Life is short. Oft times too short. It's nothing short of tragic when a life ends too early. One of the most difficult things to deal with in the aftermath of losing someone unexpectedly is the feeling that you didn't say all that you wanted to say to them before they were gone. With Thanksgiving being around the corner make the time to tell people how you feel about them. I've been blessed to have been able to tell my father on recent Father's Days that he is my hero, my role model and how much I've always admired and strived to be like him. In addition to giving thanks tomorrow, also give love, share love and tell those around you how much you love them.

BEST OF THE BEST

SPORTS HEADLINE-Florida State University safety Myron Rolle won a prestegious Rhodes Scholarship Saturday before boarding a jet to join his teammates in a 37-3 upset victory over the University of Maryland. Rolle is an aspiring neurosurgeon and now must decide between a career in the NFL (he is projected to be a mid-round draft pick) and a 2-3 year scholarship to Oxford University in England.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-We have all been blessed with gifts, talents and abilities that are unique to only us. It's possible for all of us to maximize them and reap all of the rewards that they will bring. You have to look internally and ask if you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices to bring your potential to fruition. In order to be extraordinary you have to push your self past what ordinary men do. Some are born with it, some discover it and some work very hard to achieve it, but there is greatness is us all.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-Choices, choices, choices. Rolle has 2 options that most young men would love to have. The ability to live out a dream and play a sport at the highest level or to receive a scholarship that is often a precursor to industry leaders, visionaries and world leaders. Whichever path is chosen, there will be those that second guess. Professionally you will face similar decisions, perhaps at a smaller level, but nonetheless vitally important to your future. When making a professional decision carefully weigh pros vs. cons as well as short term and long term goals. While many opportunities may appear to be a once in a lifetime chance, making the right move will put you on the ultimate path to victory.

PERSONAL FINANCES-Rolle is the textbook definition of being well rounded. This also applies to how you should manage your finances. Despite the gloom and doom that surround any financial news these days, there are numerous vehicles for you to invest your money and watch it grow. It's wise to have some in a stable long term investment like an IRA, 401K or CD but also invest in the stock market which can be volatile but could yield a faster return. Being balanced and having a stable, well rounded portfolio is vital to long term wealth and stability.

GAME PLAN-Life has many rewards waiting for you. You have the opportunity to grasp the best that is out there if you have the talent, desire and work ethic required to go after it. The reason that most people don't achieve greatness is because they are afraid of it. The fear of success is real! Don't let doubts of I'm not talented enough or smart enough or strong enough deter you from the amazing things you can realize in your life. Be courageous, defeat the fear and grasp your victory!

HAVING SOMETHING TO SAY BUT NOBODY IS LISTENING

SPORTS HEADLINE-Dallas Cowboys WR Terrell Owens expressed frustration with his team's offense in an interview airing on NFL Network. Among the things Owens complained about were the predictability of the offense in recent weeks, the inability of his QB to get the ball to him and in inflexibility of the team's offensive scheme to adjust to what defenses are doing. Heavily favored in the pre-season, the Cowboys are 6-4 and have lost 3 of their last 5 games.


PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-The ironic thing is that Owens is probably right. The statistics back up his claims that when he is a larger part of the offense the team does win a larger percentage of their games. Here's the problem though. Owens has a long history of complaining in the press, putting his desires over the overall goals of the team and generally being a pain. It's a classic example of picking your battles. When things aren't going the way you envision them or how you see they can be better, is it always the best tactic to speak out at the top of your lungs? Sometimes you're much better served in the long term by buckling down to do all that you can and give a little extra to those around you to try to improve the situation. You'd rather be the occasional voice of concern than the constant source of negativity.

Dolezar (MLB.com) Interview Part II

Part II of my interview with MLB.com Editorial Producer Jon Dolezar..

Message

3. Jon, we used to work together at CNN Sports/CNNSI, what lessons were you able to draw from that experience to apply professionally as you developed your career?

Considering that it was my first job out of college -- and, in fact, you hired me as a post-graduate intern at CNN Sports for the Summer of 1996 while you were running the intern program -- I guess a great deal of what I continue to practice to this day in my professional life was shaped both during my time as an intern and then as a full-time employee there, too. That was the summer of the Atlanta Olympics, so there was obviously a great deal going on around town. It was thrilling to be a part of the launch of CNN/SI in December 1996, and to see how much hard work goes into getting a fledgling network off the ground. Unfortunately for us, it was never able to gain much traction and couldn't slay the ESPN giant.

But working at CNN was an amazing experience that taught me so much. Journalism is a pretty cutthroat and intense business, and I learned that focus and discipline are required to last in this business. I also learned from a lot of negative things that I try to avoid now that I'm in the position of helping out younger folks who are just starting in this business. The negativity, backstabbing and just general lack of respect that some people have can really turn folks off to a career, and they aren't going to want to go to war for you if that's the case. So I guess I took both positive and negative examples that I continue to carry with me to this day.

Mostly, though, I fondly recall the many enjoyable people that I met and got to work with there, and how much fun we had on a nightly basis. That taught me that an enjoyable attitude in the workplace goes a long way, and the close relationships that you form with your co-workers can get you through tough times (of which there were many at an upstart cable sports network that ultimately only lasted six years).

4. Talk about the role you think organized sports plays in developing winning characteristics in young adults and into their adulthood.

This is a particularly timely subject for me since my two boys are now both getting involved in youth sports. I've helped coach their teams in both baseball and soccer, and few things that are more rewarding and enjoyable to me than to share my love of sports with youngsters. I love the friendships that form through sports among the kids, the confidence-building that takes place, obviously the physical conditioning element of it, but the most important part for me is just getting to spend quality time with my kids. So many of my best memories from my childhood revolve around moments in sports that I got to share with my parents, and the chance to be there to build similar moments with my two boys is so valuable and moving to me.

As with most kids, I played sports throughout my adolescence and high school years, and those memories and experiences continue to shape me to this day. I still vividly recall sayings that my high school football coach used to use regularly, and I try to apply them to my everyday life. Sports is definitely a metaphor for life, but I've always been surprised by how easily I can apply those lessons of teamwork and leadership that I learned in middle school and high school to my current life working as a journalist.

GOING OUT ON TOP

SPORTS HEADLINE-Yankees pitcher Mike Mussina decided to retire after an 18 year career spent with the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Yankees. Mussina had one of his finest years in 2008, winning 20 games for the first time in his career. Mussina retired with a career record of 270-153.

PERSONAL FINANCES-This is a great lesson that many of us learn too late. We've all had a stock, CD, bond or real estate investment that we held on to just a little too long. It's impossible to know when an asset is at it's peak but even when we've gained immense return on our investment we often times want just a little more. We get greedy when we've already gotten more than we had initially hoped for. Be smart and get out while the getting is good when it comes to your money. You'll always be a winner when you opt to get out ahead of the game.

Format Update-Jon Dolezar (MLB.com) Interview Part I

Thank you to the loyal followers of my Daily Game Plan For Victory Blog. In keeping up with efforts to provide fresher and different content I am adding a couple of features. I will be resuming the traditional format once a week starting next week and also adding 2 new features. I will do more 'mini blogs' that will focus on just one aspect (personal, professional, financial) that reflect daily events and also posting interviews with members of the sports world.

Today I have an interview from Jon Dolezar, an editorial producer for The Official Website of Major League Baseball, MLB.com. Jon is a former colleague of mine and has lived and worked in the sports media for more than 10 years with previous stops at CNN Sports, CNNSI and SI.com. Please enjoy part one of my two part interview with Jon.

1. When/how did you develop your passion for sports?

I've been a sports fan for as long as I can remember. I would say that my passion was developed at the first pro sporting event I ever attended -- a Milwaukee Bucks game against the New Orleans Jazz (dating myself, clearly, with that mere fact) on March 14, 1979, which the Bucks won 158-102, their highest-scoring regulation game ever and largest margin of victory ever. My father likes to recall that I spent most of the game asking (I was 4 1/2) "What's the score now, Daddy?" Just his luck that it would be the highest-scoring Bucks game ever! Seeing the speed, grace and fluidity of an NBA game (words that were applicable to the late-1970s NBA that surely wouldn't be used to describe today's version of pro basketball) just captivated me so much, and I pretty much worshipped all things Bucks during most of the 1980s, as they were on their run on nine straight Central Division titles.

Even before I had attended a game, though, I enjoyed listening to them on the radio. In fact, when my parents asked me when I was 3 years old what i wanted to be when I grew up, I replied: "Jim Irwin." Mr. Irwin was the play-by-play announcer for the Packers and Bucks games on WTMJ Radio in Milwaukee, and even by age 3, I was already obsessed with sports. Most 3-year-olds played with blocks and balls, I listened to sporting events on the radio. So from as early as I can remember, I've followed sports and wanted to be somehow involved in it. That led to me majoring in journalism in college and working toward becoming a journalist, which was the best way that I could stay involved in the game given my inability to hit a curveball, knock down an open 3-pointer from the wing, outrun a linebacker or skate with a speedy goal-scoring forward.

Additionally, growing up in Wisconsin in the late 1970s and early '80s, I saw some pretty awful football, but witnessing the dedication of Packers fans -- even through those terrible David Whitehurst/Lynn Dickey years -- made me realize that the passion and the camaraderie of sports were almost as important as the outcome itself. Note I said almost, since once your team starts to get decent, your mind-set changes a bit. It turned out to be a heck of a lot more fun when the Packers got decent in the late '80s and early '90s, but at the time, we didn't know any better back when they stunk every year, so we still cheered our hearts out for those terrible Packers teams anyways!

2. Is there something or someone from pro or college that you draw inspiration from on a regular basis?

I draw inspiration from any athlete who is passionate about what they do and goes about their business in the right way. Having covered sports for 14 years now dating back to my college newspaper days, you begin to get a bit jaded about the games/results after awhile, and the stories and the personalities begin to shine through. So I'd much rather watch a great Tom Rinaldi piece (shoutout to a former CNN/SI co-worker of ours) on some no-name athlete with a great backstory than to watch a puff piece about a famous athlete that most sports fans already know plenty about.

ESPN ran a piece the other day (http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3696478&categoryId=3060647) on D.J. Gregory, a man who has cerebral palsy and had a dream to walk every hole of every PGA golf tournament this season. Stories like that are the essence of sports to me, as great or likely even greater than watching what Tiger Woods did on Sunday at the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines this past June. You can clearly draw inspiration from watching an amazing once-in-a-generation athlete like Tiger perform his craft at the highest level, but seeing someone like D.J. Gregory achieve a dream of his own and overcome some serious physical limitations is a much more inspirational story to me.

I still love to watch the games, obviously, but as I get older (and now that I have two boys of my own), the backstories of athletes intrigue me much more, both from a personal or a professional standpoint. I guess I'm getting soft in my old age.

(Part II to be continued on Friday)

TRADING PLACES

SPORTS HEADLINE-ALLEN IVERSON SET TO DEBUT FOR PISTONS
Veteran guard Allen Iverson returns to the Eastern Conference Friday night when he takes the court for his new team, the Detroit Pistons after being traded there earlier in the week. Iverson, the 2000-01 MVP and four time NBA scoring champion, was traded to the Pistons in an attempt by team president Joe Dumars to shake up the core of a team that has faltered in the Eastern Conference Finals the past 3 seasons.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Ever been in a rut? You just feel like you are going through the motions, not really making any headway in any area of your life. You do the routine, see the same things, hear the same songs, eat the same foods and just feel blah. You need to create change for change's sake. Doing simple things like taking a different route to a familiar destination. Commit to trying one new place to eat or type of food each week or month. Take a class for a hobby you wouldn't ordinarily consider. Making these sublte changes will give you a boost of energy that will carry over into other aspects of your days.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Some businesses think they have it all figured out. They have created the best process, the best product or the best service and they are going to corner the market. Most of those businesses fall well shy of the success they beleive they can acheive. It's been said that the best idea is a borrowed one. There are endless opportunities in business to develop partnerships or strategic alliances and trade concepts, information, strategies or experiences in order to create wins on multiple fronts. What you consider to be common knowledge and of little value can be of great value to someone who has yet to come to the same realization as you and vice versa. Keep an open mind to sharing and experience victory on many levels.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
There are few things that are more exciting than seeing your money make money. In the 1990's, individuals got rich, then poor, then rich again by day trading stocks. Day traders would spend their days buying and selling stocks, researching opportunities to make a quick strike and hoping to avoid a catastrophic loss. The era faded a bit with tougher economic times but the core concept is solid. Merely investing in a stock and letting it sit there is one strategy to employ, but in order to maximize your money work closely with your broker and/or fiancial advisor to deftly buy low and sell high and come out on the winning end of your trades.

GAME PLAN-
Life is full of chances to change things around. There are times that just making a change for the sake of change is appropriate but as a rule you always want to make a change for positive results. Look at where you are, where you want to be and what's it going to take to get you there. Implementing the right changes may be what it takes to lead you to victory!

YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN

SPORTS HEADLINE-LEFTWICH RALLIES STEELERS TO VICTORY OVER CHILDHOOD FAVORITE TEAM
Late in the 2nd quarter of Monday's NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Washington Redskins, Steelers starting QB Ben Roethlisberger injured his right shoulder and hand after hitting a defender's helmet while throwing a pass. After halftime, backup QB and DC native Byron Leftwich entered the game and proceeded to throw for 129 yards, a TD and led his team to a 23-6 victory.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Close your eyes for a minute. Think of what defines your childhood, your old friends, your old neighborhood, your memories-good and bad. This is what shaped you to become the person you are today. As we go on to our adult lives, our childhood memories always stay with us, but tend to slowly fade. Take some time to reflect on those days. Try to reach a childhood friend you hadn't spoken to in years. By virtue of today's social media outlets like Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, etc. it is easier than ever to reconnect.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Most businesses start with lofty goals, big plans and high expectations. Establishing your business as an industry leader in your local market gives you a blueprint of how to replicate it on a larger scale. It also allows you to make mistakes and learn your way on a more forgiving plane. If you are a locally owned business, you will often find a little more support and latitude than if you are a national player that comes in with heightened expectations. Start by owning your backyard and watch your territory grow from there.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
We've heard a lot in the last few months about "Wall Street" and "Main Street" but what's happening on your street? Your financial victory starts at home with basic core concept of establishing your personal budget. Sitting down and looking at what comes in and what goes out of your household is the foundation of establishing a solid plan of savings, spending responsibly and building towards your financial victory.

GAME PLAN-
The cliche says home is where the heart is. Home is not a physical structure, it's a feeling of security, serenity, comfort, ownership, pride and respect. Sometimes it takes us a while to find our sense of 'home' as we seek it in material possessions, seek it out in groups or organizations, trying to find out where we belong. I'm a big believe in 'going back to basics'. Re-establish those things in your life that enrich your soul and spirit, things that bring you joy and incorporate those as part of your daily lives.

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES

SPORTS HEADLINE-
The Philadelphia Phillies won their first World Series title since 1980 Wednesday evening over the Tampa Bay Rays 4-3. The win, in Philadelphia capped off a 4 games to 1 series victory.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a sports fan is seeing a team celebrate ultimate victory. It reminds us that while most of these players are millionaires and live the lives that most of us can only dream of, they are simply just playing a game for the joy of winning.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
What's the point of achieving goals and milestones without taking the time to celebrate them? We find ourselves always chasing the next goal and next dream often without enjoying what we have already. When was the last time you sat back and took stock of what you've accomplished and reveled in it just a little. There's nothing wrong with being a slight bit self congratulatory. You've worked hard to get where you are and do what you've done. Before sprinting down the road towards that next target, take a deep breath and enjoy where you stand.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
It's been repeatedly documented and shown that there is a direct correlation between high employee morale and increased levels of production. Simply put, a happy worker is a productive worker. Doing simple things like unexpected work parties, catering in lunch for your employees on occasion, company sponsored Happy Hour, etc. are little things that show appreciation and celebration to those that toil for you. Celebrating their efforts will reap you rewards that far outweigh those that take their employees for granted.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
There is a common phrase "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." This also has financial applications. Is there really a point to hoarding every dollar you can, scrimping and saving without ever rewarding yourself with the fruits of your savings? You can't take it with you, so enjoy what your money allows you to do, within reason of course. One of the best reasons to ever do anything is simply 'because I can!' Is there a more powerful feeling in the world than being able to do things without worrying about the consequence? Be smart, don't stray off of your plan and don't be unreasonable with your spending, but by all means, treat yourself. You deserve it!

GAME PLAN-
On the way to ultimate victory in any phase of your life, there are small victories. Be sure to celebrate those small wins along the way so when you reach ultimate victory it doesn't seem like it was just a bunch of work to finally get to the end. There's a way to enjoy even the most tedious of tasks and that's by celebrating getting beyond them. Life is short, so you might as well enjoy the ride!

SUSPENDED ANTICIPATION

SPORTS HEADLINE-WORLD SERIES GAME 5 SUSPENDED BY RAIN
In a World Series that was already made historic by it's participants, history was made again Monday night when Major League Baseball suspended Game 5, tied 2-2 in the 6th inning due to inclement weather. This was the first game in World Series history to be suspended by weather and will be resumed at the suspension point at a later date. The Phillies are leading in the World Series 3-1 in a best of seven. They have the chance to clinch the series on their home field with a win in the completion of Game 5.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
There are times in all of our lives when we need to hit the pause button and chill for a minute. There was a study by Dr. Walter Mischel at Stanford University with 4 year old children where they were left alone in a room for 15 minutes with one marshmallow on a plate. They were told they could eat the marshmallow, but, if they didn't eat that marshmallow, then they would receive two marshmallows when the adult came back in the room. Predictably, some children ate immediately, others were more patient and were rewarded for their patience. 14 years later, those same students were revisited and almost universally the children that waited were more successful, trustworthy and dependable. The moral of the story is having the discipline to delay gratification is a valuable tool that will help shape all phases of your life.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Have you ever been at a crossroads professionally where you had to make a decision to take a minute to reassess the situation or just push through and hope for the best result? What did you do and how did it work out for you? Sometimes, taking that step back and determining what's going to be the ultimate best course for the long term may take you an unexpected direction in the short term. Ultimately however, that could be better than just pressing on and then having to make changes and adjustments in the short term to achieve your long term goals.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
One of the most difficult things consumers deal with in their monthly budget and spending habits is delayed gratification. I want that car NOW! I want that house NOW! I want that vacation NOW! But the major problem is, most of us don't have the assets to just make those impulsive purchases without sacrificing something else significant in our financial lives. We often fool ourselves into believing that a want is a need. We all have the same basic needs-food, clothing and shelter. We also have societal needs-transportation, entertainment and education. But anything beyond those are really optional. Being able to fill your needs at the level you can afford them will allow you to at a later point fill those same needs at a level closer to what you desire. Doing it the opposite way is a recipe for disappointment and often times failure.

GAME PLAN-
Have the belief that your time is coming. Know in your heart of hearts that the clouds of today are just the precursor to tomorrow's sunshine and you will soon bask in the glory of the rewards of your patience. When you delay gratification, it doesn't dilute the feelings of joy, jubilation and excitement of your victory, just the opposite. You will enjoy them more because you will know all that you have done to accomplish your goals and fully enjoy your victory!

TICK TICK TICK TICK - BOOM!

SPORTS HEADLINE-NFL PRE-SEASON FAVORITES DALLAS COWBOYS FACING CRISIS
Media outlets across the nation had crowned the Dallas Cowboys the best team in football before the season began. Coming off of a 13-3 season in 2007, returning 13 Pro Bowlers and having a collection of stars, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that they would run away with the NFC title and waltz into the Super Bowl.

A funny thing happened on the way to destiny. After a quick 3-0 start, the Cowboys have lost 3 of their last 4 games, had their often outspoken WR Terrell Owens complain about not getting the ball enough following a game where he was targeted 19 times, lost their Pro Bowl safety for the season and lost their starting QB for at least 3 weeks. They are now at a crossroads for their season with a difficult month ahead of them and on the verge of implosion.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
I remember my mother often repeating a chorus of a 1967 Temptations hit, 'Beauty's Only Skin Deep'. Just as great as things look on the surface, they may be just masking the turmoil that brews beneath. Being cautious amidst boundless optimism is a good trait to exhibit. It's often the things that look and seem too perfect and too polished that have the most tumult and tarnish. Look beyond the superficial and truly examine character in order to position yourself in the best company.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
One of the major issues facing the Cowboys is the lack of 'one voice'. The owner/general manager is the highly visible Jerry Jones. The head coach is the ultimate nice guy Wade Phillips (pictured). The presumed head coach in waiting is offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, recipient of a new $3 million a year contract, making him the NFL's highest paid assistant coach. In business, during times of struggle, employees are looking for that one voice to galvanize the troops, be a shining beacon of hope and direction. When the message is muddled or diluted by too many voices, chaos ensues.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Can you count up the number of your friends who got rich buying "A new system where you can make millions from your own home"? Where's your yacht, your 3 new sports cars, your 18 bedroom house? While there are some people who have gotten legitimately rich from systems on investing, real estate, day trading and other fads that have come and gone, for the most part when the product or system reaches the masses-the real money has already been made! It's very rare that a new process, product or system is simple and effective enough that just anyone can master it's techniques and strike it rich. Rather than chasing the gold every time it glimmers, use a systematic approach of diversified saving and investing wisely to build your fortune.

GAME PLAN-
All that glitters is not gold. It's a cliche but rings very true. For every time a team came from out of nowhere to become the Cinderella story, there are just as many teams that were billed as invincible and unstoppable but were fatally flawed. Get past the shiny exterior and really examine the nuts and bolts of anything you spend your valuable time or money on to be sure that it is worthy of you.

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW

SPORTS HEADLINE-RAYS & PHILLIES SET TO FACE OFF IN 2008 WORLD SERIES
With the elimination of the defending champion Boston Red Sox in Game 7 of the ALCS, the Tampa Rays clinched their first ever World Series appearance where they will face the Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies are making their first World Series appearance since 1993 and seeking their first win since 1980. Regardless of which team wins, a large segment of their fan base will be experiencing championship glory for the first time.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
There is just something refreshing about experiencing new things. New places to travel, new foods to experiment with, new sights and sounds to tantalize the senses. We tend to fall into and languish in comfortable routines, expecting the expected and not challenging ourselves to seek adventures outside our comfort zone. But that's where life truly is exciting, when you do things that are beyond what you'd normally do or what you're customarily comfortable doing. By expanding your horizons and putting yourself in positions to experience all that is out there, your life will be enriched in ways that are unimaginable.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Do you remember dos based computers? How about mobile phones the size of a house phone? Maybe you recall facsimile machines (before they were called just 'fax') with the roll of shiny paper? These were all inventions that were hailed as revolutionary at the time they burst onto the scene. Businesses that were early to adopt these new technologies stayed ahead of their competitors and were on the cutting edge of their industries. But the times quickly caught up and now all of those technologies have been replaced with faster, more efficient and more effective models. Staying current is a good way to get behind in the business world. You have to anticipate, stay ahead of the trends and be a leader in your industry to remain victorious in your field.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
If you have paid ANY attention to the news the past 3 weeks you're aware of what's been going on with Wall Street and the banking industry. What that tells me is that we all should be thinking of new places to save and invest. One of the best areas to have a savings account is an online savings bank. These banks usually have higher interest yields on savings, money markets and Cd's (certificates of deposit) than traditional brick and mortar banks. Having an open mind to new ideas is a good way to ensure you are able to stay ahead of the game.

GAME PLAN-
There's nothing wrong with something being 'old reliable'. The reason it's called that is because you know what to expect, you know what it will be and won't be and you can count on it. While not taking anything away from reliability, it's also vital for you to keep your spirit open to experiencing new things. There are wonderful sights, sounds, smells, tastes and adventures that we all bypass every day without giving them another thought or consideration. Embrace things that before you would shy away from or not even give a second thought. The rewards are bountiful.

A COMEBACK FOR THE AGES

SPORTS HEADLINE-RED SOX RALLY FROM THE BRINK OF ELIMINATION
On the field of historic Fenway Park, the home of the defending World Champion Boston Red Sox, the Tampa Bay Rays were 7 outs away from clinching their first World Series berth. Down 7-0 in the bottom of the 7th inning and down 3-1 in the best of seven series, it seemed bleak for the home team. Amazingly a rally started and by the end of the evening, the Red Sox had pulled off the 2nd largest comeback in MLB playoff history by posting a 8-7 win extending the series to a Game 6.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
We all face difficult circumstances in life from time to time, when it seems like nothing can swing our way. Believing that no obstacle is too great to overcome with a positive spirit, strong faith and the willingness to persevere can go a long way towards getting past your challenge and closer to your victory. Keep doing the right things, don't give up and keep in mind that when you face tough times, you are just around the corner from greatness.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
There's an often repeated mantra you'll hear from successful teams and coaches that are struggling, 'We've got to stay the course.' Why would you want to keep doing something if it's not working right now? It's because you know that over time, the process or program you have in place will work. It's worked in the past and will work again. Business owners sometimes will face struggles and despite knowing that what they've done before has worked and will work again, will stray off course to try to capture lightning in a bottle. Believe in your business plan, believe in your employees and 'stay the course' to emerge victoriously.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
It's rare to encounter someone who isn't facing some level of financial challenges in today's economic environment. If it's not their direct income, it's their stock portfolio or their 401K that is feeling the brunt of our tough times. It has to feel like it's almost over for some people. But just like the Red Sox had to start somewhere on their comeback so do you. It starts with making one positive move, whether it be committing to save a little more dillengently in a savings account or making an investment in a low priced stock with upside or simply reassessing and reshaping your financial goals, make that initial positive move that will start your financial rally.

GAME PLAN-
The old cliche says, 'It ain't over 'til it's over,' and we've seen that shown time and time again. Don't give up before the game is over. You never know what's going to spark your rally and lead you down a victorious path!

ROOT ROOT ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM

SPORTS HEADLINE-THE JOY OF BEING A FAN
I'm taking a different angle with this post, today's blog is inspired by none other than my mother. She is a Cleveland sports fan thru and thru. She grew up rooting for the Indians and the Browns, graduated from Ohio State and roots for the Buckeyes relentlessly. I received a celebratory e-mail from her after the Browns pulled the upset over the defending Super Bowl Champion NY Giants on Monday Night Football. Congrats on the team's win Mom!

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Finding something that you are passionate about can make a huge difference in your levels of personal happiness and satisfaction. While fans of certain teams (Cubs, Mets, Clippers) seem to have almost a tortured existence of unfulfilled potential and promising seasons somehow lost, those fans share an identity and an unshakable faith of 'wait til next year.' As a true fan you experience the highs of winning and lows of losing along with the team you follow. Having that passion and being able to share it with like minded fans and enjoying friendly competition with your rivals is what being a fan is all about!

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Having a sense of pride and ownership of your business or place of work is proven to be a strong motivating factor for increased workplace satisfaction and productivity. Studies have repeatedly shown that workers that feel that they are not only working for a company, but are valued members of the "team" are often more loyal, more driven to succeed for that company and more willing to make sacrifices neccessary for the company to be successful. By fostering a sense of ownership among your employees or by being able to effectively draw a correlation between your role in the business and it's ultimate viability, you can lead your business towards victory.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
One of the more difficult things with people who are new to investing or managing their finances is they don't really know where to start. It's easy to say, save and invest wisely, but that's so vague it can almost be discouraging to the uneducated investor. Aa suggestion is to pick an investment vehicle like you would a sports team and follow it accordingly. If it's a company stock or a specific industry, follow it as you follow your favorite team. Get to know the key players, research it's history, get a sense of where you think it's going and decide if this is who you want to hitch your wagon to. Part of the excitement of being a fan is riding the ups and downs of a team. When you have some 'skin in the game' it will be that much more exciting!

GAME PLAN-
Fan is short for fanatic. Finding something that you have an undying passion and dedication to is a wholly fulfilling experience. All of us fans, at one point have said-'That's it! I can't do it anymore with this team!' but of course, come next season we are right back where we were before. That's true dedication, true passion and true love.

LOOKS LIKE A DUCK, WALKS LIKE A DUCK, MUST BE A DUCK

SPORTS HEADLINE-ADAM 'PAC-MAN' JONES INVOLVED IN HOTEL FIGHT
Oft troubled Dallas Cowboys defensive back Adam 'Pac Man' Jones was involved in a fight with a team employed bodyguard on Tuesday night at a hotel outside of Dallas. The police were called but no injuries were reported and no charges will be filed.

Jones was recently reinstated to the NFL after serving a one year suspension for conduct unbecoming an NFL player by commissioner Roger Goodell. Goodell suspended Jones after a series of arrest involving alcohol, firearms and disorderly conduct spanning 2004-2007.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Author and motivational speaker Dennis Kimbro has been known to say, 'You are an average of the people you surround yourself with.' This is just a more eloquent way of what you mother always said, 'be careful who you hang around with!' There are just some people who cannot seem to stay out of their own way and trouble finds them. It's vital to your success and your reputation to thoroughly screen the people who you have in your inner circle. Surround yourself with people who share your same goals or better goals, have the same energy and drive for success or more than yours.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
How many times have you seen talent trump character? We've all experienced people in the professional arena that are just amazing at what they do, but their benefit to the business or organization is offset by the baggage they carry. Sometimes it's a correctable problem but sometimes it's just not. Some people are who they are and will be who they will be. As a business owner or team leader, you have to keep in mind the overall best interest of the organization and sometimes let someone's talent be another teams' headache.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
You've heard the phrase 'throwing good money after bad'. A way to apply that is if you continue to soak money into an investment that has shown you historically that it is not paying off. There is far less shame in walking away from a poor investment than spending untold amounts of time and more money trying to rescue it. There are times when you can salvage a poor decision or investment by allocating more resources to it, but there's also a time to realize that it's not working and let it go.

GAME PLAN-
While we are conditioned to give people the benefit of the doubt and we are unquestionably in a society of giving second and third chances, we also must have the wisdom to realize that some things and people are exactly what they seem to be. Maya Angelou said, 'when someone shows themselves to you, believe them' meaning when someone or something reveals their true character, despite us at times wishing and believing it to be something else, trust what they are showing. You will be stronger, better and more fulfilled by letting those go by the wayside and moving on to more positive influences in your life.

DELAYED PROMISE

SPORTS HEADLINE-2007 #1 OVERALL PICK MAKES LONG AWAITED NBA DEBUT
Greg Oden was supposed to be 'next'. He was called the best true center to enter the NBA from the college ranks since Shaq. He had the footwork of Bill Russell, the shooting touch of Patrick Ewing and the athleticism of Alonzo Mourning. But before even his first preseason practice he experienced soreness in his right knee and went season ending micro-fracture surgery.

Oden finally made his debut Tuesday night in a pre-season game against the Sacramento Kings. In less than 20 minutes on the court, Oden scored 13 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and blocked 2 shots.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Life is full of setbacks, unexpecteded pitfalls and unfortunate obstacles. Things will rarely go as you always plan or hope that they will go, so the question is-how will you respond? Physical injuries have a pretty set course, get treatment, get the injury repaired, get rehab and work your way back. Recovering from emotional or other personal setbacks seems to have a less clear path but in reality the road back is very similar. Take the necessary time to work through the stages of whatever you have to overcome but always have the knowledge that at the end of the road your victory awaits you.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
One of the hardest things to deal with when starting a business is the time that you often have to incur as you slowly grow your clientele. While you can clearly see the merits of your product or service and it's so clear to you why this is the best thing since sliced bread, it may take some time for the rest of the world to come around. Having the focus, determination and unshakeable belief that what you have to offer is the best option out there and you can perform it better than anyone else may be the difference between a great idea and an amazing, fulfilling career.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Our finances have such an impact on every area of our lives. When times are good, it seems like nothing can get us down. When times are tough, it seems that the hits just keep on coming. Recovery from financial setbacks can seem and feel like a never ending road. It's so easy to focus on what you don't have, can't afford or are missing out on. But take the opposite view instead. Look at all of the lessons you've learned, the amazing opportunities ahead and how much you will be able to appreciate the sacrafices you've had to make.

GAME PLAN-
This one is really simple. Whenever you are faced with a setback or a significant unexpected challenge, rather than just focusing on the problem, look past just the solution to the ultimate outcome. Believe that you will emerge stronger, smarter and better after all is said and done.

DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE

SPORTS HEADLINE-MMA STAR KIMBO SLICE SUFFERS KO AT HANDS OF UNKNOWN
Internet legend turned MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter Kimbo Slice was knocked out 14 seconds into his nationally televised Elite XC fight Saturday vs. Seth Petruzelli. Slice was orignially scheduled to fight Ken Shamrock in a headline bout featuring 2 of the sports biggest names, but when Shamrock was injured in a sparring session, Petruzelli substituted in his place for the bout.

Slice, who grew a large fanbase and viral icon status in 2006 & 2007 for his videotaped 'Backyard Brawls', shown on You Tube, had been undefeated in MMA action and was expected to make quick work of Shamrock's replacement.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Have you ever had that feeling of invincibility? We can all remember those times when everything is going right in our world, the sun seems to be shining every day, we catch every green light on the way to work, everyone we encounter is smiling and happy, life is just great! Unfortunately we also remember the days when the rain seems just a little bit harder when we walk out the door, it seems that your car has a license plate that says 'CUTMEOFF' and you are wearing a huge 'Kick Me!' sign on your back. That's why it's good to maintain an even keel about you, regardless of what's going on in life. Enjoy the highs and navigate the lows but don't get too caught up in either one.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Every once in a while a revolutionary idea or a sales/marketing/management superstar comes along. For every Bill Gates, there are hundreds of dot com 'geniuses' that fizzled just as soon as their fatal flaws were exposed. Good business owners and investors are able to see through all of the hype of what looks to be grand on the surface, but they take the time to really dig deeper into the product or person to really uncover it's substance. While it is great to be riding the wave of what seems to be a great idea or addition to your team, be sure that wave has sustaining power and doesn't come crashing down on top of you.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
It's a common saying in sales to 'sell the sizzle, not the steak' meaning if you are able to sell the benefits of something, then your job is much easier to complete the sale. So when you are looking for areas for investment or starting a home based business to generate supplemental or to be your primary source of income, how quickly do you get caught up in all of the hype and promises of fast money with little effort? It all seems so easy, until you've spent unknown amounts of money just to realize you don't have the time, knowledge or passion to follow through with what's needed to be done in order to be succesful. That's what most of these companies bank on, that you are going to plop down your money and leave the product sitting in a corner somewhere. They've made their money to keep paying for advertising for the next person whose interest they can peak. Take a few extra steps to really research and think about what you are getting into and make sure you are ready to fully committ the time, energy and passion to developing and growing your business.

GAME PLAN-
Coaches commonly say that you are never as good as you think you are and never as bad as they say you are. Life is filled with highs, lows, unfulfilled promises and unexpected disappointments. Buying in to the hype is a sure fire way to set your self up for disappointment, just as believing that nothing good will ever happen for you because you are in a lull is a virtual guarantee to manifest that because your thoughts and actions lead down a negative path. Remaining medium, while still enjoying the highs and learning from the lows will lead you to a more satisfying and fulfilling life.

NOT SAVING THEIR BEST FOR LAST

SPORTS HEADLINE-REGULAR SEASON BEST IN AL & NL ON BRINK OF ELIMINATION
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and Chicago Cubs posted the most wins in their respective leagues in the 2008 MLB season. Both enter the weekend one loss away from being swept out of the first round of the playoffs.

The Angels are facing the defending world champion Boston Red Sox and after a dramatic 7-5 loss Friday night head to Boston facing the daunting task of having to sweep the Sox on their home field and come back to LA for a clinching win.

The Cubs committed 4 errors Thursday night en route to their loss to fall 2 games down to the Dodgers. Many thought this would finally be the year that long suffering Cubs fans would see their team win the World Series for the first time since 1908.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
There are times in our lives when we've all accomplished great things. You are feeling good about yourself, what you've done, the hard work it took to get there and the rewards of your accomplishment. Now keep going. Now that you've reached this goal, how can you make it a stepping stone towards the next goal? Just as games aren't won at halftime and there are no trophies for second place, life is a long marathon. Enjoy your victories along the way, but continue to press forward and strive for more greatness to come.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
The history of sports and business is filled with 'unfulfilled promise'. Teams and companies that seemed to have it all going their way with ultimate glory just at their fingertips. But a funny thing happened along the way to that ultimate glory. Something or someone broke down, exposing a fatal flaw. Fortunately in business it's rare that even if you fall short of your ultimate goal, all of the good works and efforts are for naught. See what worked and what didn't and build off of your successes.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Just as the Cubs were their own undoing in their Game 2 loss by making errors in the field, you can cause yourself undue financial stress and strain by ignoring solid financial fundamentals and making errors in judgment. While you may not be able to immediately recover from errors that you've made, by getting back to the fundamentals and sticking to those principles, you will ultimately end up victorious.

GAME PLAN-
In sports there is only one champion at the end of each season. One team that had it all come together, either dominant throughout the year or getting hot at the right time or a magical performance for the ages that culminates in a championship. Every team strives to be that champion when the season begins but only one reaches that pinnacle. The difference between jubilation and disappointment can be such a slim margin do all that you can not to sabotage your victory. Focus on your fundamentals, don't rest on your laurels and persevere until you've reached the top!

WNBA FINALS NOT SO MUCH OF A 'SHOCK'

SPORTS HEADLINE-DETROIT AND SAN ANTONIO OPEN WNBA FINALS WEDNESDAY NIGHT
For the third straight season and fourth overall appearance, the Detroit Shock will represent the Eastern Conference in the WNBA Finals versus the San Antonio Silver Stars. This ties the record of the Houston Comets (1997-2000) for WNBA championship series appearances.

Winning is nothing unique to the Head Coach of the Shock, former Detroit Pistons "Bad Boy" Bill Laimbeer. He was the center and lead villain of the Detroit Pistons teams of the 1980's that made 3 NBA Finals appearances and won 2 NBA championships during that era.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
I recently had someone say to me, "you are an average of the people you associate with." I found that to be a fascinating statement once I really thought about it. If that is true, who do you want to associate with? Do you want to be around winners? Do you want to be around positive people who are doing the right things every day to improve themselves and the lives of those around them? It's always a great thing to step back and see those who you allow to consciously and unconsciously influence you and determine if they are indeed the positive force you need to help get you to the next level.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Sports and business have so many parallels. In order to have success you need leadership, an solid plan and proper execution. In order to have sustained success you also have to have strong leadership, an excellent plan and near flawless execution. How do you find those strong leaders, those who can execute the plan and lead their troops to execute it to it's maximum potential? Is it always the case that the best players automatically become the best coaches? Not at all, so why would that ring true in business. There are endless stories of top producing sales people who flamed out or outright failed as managers. Take the time to examine the intangible someone brings to a position, look beyond the resume and achievements to determine who is going to be your best coach to lead your team to victory.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
There are very few strategies for sustained financial success. Why, you may ask? Well, because the ones that exist already work pretty well! Some of the most basic strategies, budgeting, saving, investing wisely, taking moderate but calculated risks, are strategies that will almost unfailingly keep you in the game, if not ahead of the game financially. When you either don't follow or try to reinvent these existing strategies you are playing in a game that's much tougher to win.

GAME PLAN-
A team that wins consistently over a period of time is called a dynasty. Dynasties are rare in today's sports world because of the impatient nature of society. It takes time to develop a solid team with the right mix of players, it's vital to have the right person leading the team and crafting the message, there is a certain level of 'buying into the system' that has to take place with every player to execute the strategy, however basic it might seem. Life is full of peaks and valleys but the hallmarks of sustained excellence rarely waver across different lines of life. Determine for yourself if you want to ride the roller coaster or if you'd rather sail the calmer seas of continued success.

A LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE BY A LEGEND

SPORTS HEADLINE-BRETT FAVRE SETS NEW PERSONAL BEST WITH 6 TD PASSES IN WIN
Future Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre of the New York Jets passed for a career high 6 touchdown passes in Sunday's 56-35 victory over the visiting Arizona Cardinals.

Favre, who retired from the Green Bay Packers in the spring but returned this summer with a trade to New York holds virtually every passing record in the NFL record book including career yards and touchdown passes, has led his new team to a 2-2 record through the first four games of the 2008 season.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
No matter what you have accomplished in life, there is always room for personal growth and achieving great things. There's a saying that says 'Greatness knows no bounds.' This means that whatever you can envision for yourself, and even things that you can't see in your own mind's eye, are attainable and achieveable to you. We are all capable of great things, find where your passions and talents lie and excel within those arenas.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
In whatever business you are in, there is always a superstar. It could be in sales, technology, travel, business, industry, really anything. What usually makes that person a star is their unfailing beleif in themselves and their ability to do what they do better than anyone else. I've learned over the years that the talent difference between great workers and good workers isn't that broad. What's usually different is their belief in what they are doing and them being put in the right positions or locations to succeed. Take a look at your organization and see if your stars are in the right places to maximize your game plan.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Favre is known as a bit of a wild card. His charm is that he will do something completely unimaginable in order to try to make a play for his team to win. Guess what, that works for him! In your finances, there is room to take such chances, every once in a while. In order to attain greatness, you have to try to be great! You can't sit and play it safe all of the time. That will rarely put you in a position to lose, but it also limits your ceiling. Take smart, calculated risks-but risks nonetheless-in the pursiut of great financial success.

GAME PLAN-
In life, business and financially, there is always an achievement that's out there to accomplish. Life's scorecard is never filled up. As long as you believe there is another level for you to go to, another rung on the ladder to climb, keep presssing onward towards your goals. Some of the most satisfying acheivements in life are those that make you say, 'I didn't know I could do that!' Believe you can do anything and live all phases of life accordingly.

UNEXPECTED VICTORY

SPORTS HEADLINE-OREGON STATE SHOCKS #1 USC 27-21
Thursday night in Corvallis, OR, the unranked Oregon State Beavers upset the previously unbeaten and undisputed #1 team in the land, the USC Trojans.

Led by freshman running back Jacquizz Rodgers 186 yards and 2 TD the Beavers knocked off the Trojans for the second consecutive time on their home field.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
This one is really simple, no obstacle is too great to be overcome. The sports landscape is littered with Goliaths that David has slain along the way. One of the mantras often repeated in sports is 'on any given day' which means that nothing is impossible. There are going to be hundreds of times in your life where the challenges that lie ahead seem to dwarf potential solutions. In those cases, you just have to buckle down, dig deep and have the ultimate belief in yourself that you will be victorious!

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
Whenever a major upset occurs, some of the same tenets are always quoted. 'Outstanding teamwork.' 'Solid leadership.' 'We had a plan and we executed it.' These aren't unique concepts. It's rare that you can have success at any level without teamwork, leadership and a plan. The difference between taking your team or your business to the next level or winning in the business arena against the odds is perfect execution.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Amongst the feelings of joy after a major win is, now what do I do? It almost seems deflating to have a big score and then not follow it up with another one. This can tread into dangerous territory financially. There are going to be times when you get an unexpected financial increase. While it's great to savor that increase, if you splurge and squander it then what? It's fine to celebrate a little, enjoy the spoils, but keep in mind that wins like that come rarely if at all so you should try to make it last as long as you can.

GAME PLAN-
We are accustomed to winning and losing and most of us can navigate those with a certain level of predictability. One of the great things about the game of life is the unexpected wins. These are the times in life we cherish most when we look back and revel in our accomplishments. The times that while we knew all along that we were capable of greatness, we are even a little surprised at ourselves for what we've accomplished. Celebrate all of your victories, expected and unexpected and continue to believe that your next great victory is just ahead.

SOMETIMES, IT'S JUST TIME

SPORTS HEADLINE-MATT MILLEN OUT AFTER UNSUCCESSFUL REIGN AS LIONS GM/PRESIDENT
After posting a 31-84 record as the General Manager/Team President of the Detroit Lions, former NFL star and analyst Matt Millen was relieved of his duties today by team owner William Clay Ford.

Millen has long been a target of ridicule by the fans, local and national sports media. The inability to field a winning team was magnified by Millen's curious personnel decisions, such as drafting WR in the first round in 4 consecutive years. The Lions, under Millen's leadership since 2001 are off to an 0-3 start this season.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
We all enter certain things in life-relationships, career paths, business deals, personal business ventures-with passion, confidence, vision and hope that it will all work out for the best. Some of these same feelings are why other people can see from the outside what it sometimes takes us too long to recognize for ourselves. Sometimes it just doesn't work and no matter what you do, it's not going to. Part of being a smart and effective decision maker is realizing that there is no shame in failure, only shame in failing to recognize when to let go. In the long run, you are better off for having the experience and moving on than lingering and 'hoping for the best'

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
It's always tough to let someone go. You hire or partner with someone with all of the best intentions. You are sure that this is the perfect person for the role you envision them fulfilling. For one reason or another, it's just not happening. Do you think it's a mystery to that person that you are not achieving the results that you both dersire? It may not be all of their fault, sometimes it's a matter of circumstance. But business is business. Doing the right thing by being fair and letting the person know that it's not working and you both need to move on is the right, professional thing to do.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Do you have a DeLorean parked in the garage? How about a stack of Enron stock certificates? Are you still feeling good about that HD-DVD purchase of a couple of years ago? A few bad investments can put you in a world of financial hurt for a long time. While you don't want to be hasty in making financial decisions, when the writing is on the wall, bail out and save what you can.

GAME PLAN-
Let's face it, losing is part of the game of life. Nobody is ever going to win all the time or lose all the time. One of the differences though between perennial winners and perennial losers is the self awareness to acknowledge when something isn't working and it's time to make a change. Einstien famously said, 'The definition of insanity is doing the same action over and over and expecting a different result.' I'm not advocating making change for change sake, however if there is a constant among other changes and your results remain the same, it's time for a change in overall direction.

SPORTS HEADLINE-YANKEE STADIUM CLOSES ITS DOORS FOR THE FINAL TIME
One of the grandest stages in all of sports has held it's last performance. The home of the most storied franchise in all of sports history, the New York Yankees, Yankee Stadium, hosted it's final game Sunday afternoon in Manhattan. After 85 years of being home to some of the greatest names in baseball history from Ruth to Gehrig to Berra to Mantle to DiMaggio to Jackson to Jeter, the time had come to replace the old stadium with a brand new, state of the art facility being built in an adjacent parking lot.

Sunday evening represented a celebration of baseball history. A gala that brought together Yankees from throughout the years to reminice and celebrate championships and memories of the past while preparing to usher in the new stadium in 2009.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
We are all in such a rush these days to do everything in life faster, smarter, more efficiently that sometimes we lose sight of where we have been. It's very humbling and grounding to take some time every once and a while to reflect back on our own personal history to see where we've come from. In good times, reflect on the struggles you've had to overcome to get to where you are today. In bad times, look back at times of celebration for spiritual edification, but also look back upon when you've been able to emerge from struggle for inspiration. The old saying goes, those that choose not to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
One of the reasons that the Yankees have had such success over the decades is what they call the 'Yankee Way'. Now there is no written definition of the Yankee Way but it's a culture that is ingrained in the organization. There's a certain level of expectations, a certain level of professionalism, a certain standard of excellence that is just a given when wearing the pinstripes. In your business, what is your 'Way'? What are the core beliefs you seek in your business practices and employees? Establish your own winning culture and make that permeate all aspects of what you do and watch the results!

PERSONAL FINANCES-
If you follow baseball at all, you know the Yankees aren't afraid to spend money! They consistently have the highest payroll in baseball and for decades have the on field results to justify it. Sometimes in life you've got to spend money to make money. The wisest investments they've made have also been some of the safest. Traditionally, it's going to be more beneficial for you to invest your money in stable, long term vehicles (stocks, bonds, CDs) than the latest, greatest booming trend. Making decisions based on today's news means you've missed yesterday's boat. The big money is already been made in most cases before you get a chance to jump in. There's always merit in taking a smart risk with a small percentage of your portfolio, but avoid the danger of trying to hit a major league home run with a wiffle ball bat.

GAME PLAN-
Take some time today to reflect on days past. What's been good and what's been bad? There have been great people who have entered your 'stadium' throughout your life, celebrate them with a quick phone call or e-mail to let them know how much you appreciate and revere them. Establish your winning ways in life, in business and in your finances. Start your personal dynasty today!