To be honest, I totally hadn’t planned to post today since Saturday is typically my “school assignment catch up/relax” day, but this morning, I wound up finding my way to several blog posts that were rather critical of Ali and the content/delivery of her Shine event.

While I certainly respect everyone’s thoughts and opinions on the event, I wanted to express my own and why I will absolutely be back at Shine next year, and perhaps respond with my thoughts on the issues critics are bringing up. Many of you know I personally attended Shine and that I can say, without a doubt, it changed my life.

Sooo…here goes nothing!

I Came To Shine With An Open Mind

Despite the fact that I was on the preview calls for Shine and heard the promised content and information, I decided that the best way to come to Shine was with a mind left completely open to possibilities and expecting good things to come my way during the weekend. Best part- that’s exactly what I got!

I could have come to Shine expecting the event to give me very specifics things (and then perhaps find disappointment when such expectations weren’t met in the exact way I envisioned), but I wanted to get the absolute most from every piece of content and every speaker to be presented…and so I came with a completely open mind to what I could learn – and my mind was filled, filled, filled!

For me, going to the event was a massive risk in itself – investing in last-minute roundtrip airfare, lodging, taxi fare, meals, and spending in “Sin City” itself is no easy task for a full-time student; and so I stepped out in faith, completely open to the opportunities this weekend had to offer; instead of going with an attitude of specific expectations and cynicism.

I Weighed My Ego Against My Bank Account

One thing I’ve read some individuals posting about the Shine event is that they perhaps found a lot of the content offered was “weak” or “fluffy”; or that they had “heard these things many times before”. While I respect such opinions and realize that some event attendees may have been coming from more business experience than I did, the second principle I kept in mind while listening to the speakers and content at Shine was to weigh my ego against my bank account.

Sure, it could have been easy for me to pick apart the information being shared at the event and say “Oh, that’s common sense” or “Oh, I’ve heard that before” – but I clearly understood that oftentimes, common sense is far from common practice…and that there are many, many things I need to hear over and over again before I finally “get it” and take action!

Not only that, but not often do we have the opportunity to learn from someone who has grown a company from $400,000 to $4 million in 3 years – and likewise, someone who is a billion-dollar businesswoman. While we don’t have to agree with everything they tell us (for me and my business, having Twitter on my business card works wonders LOL!) – wouldn’t you agree that we have MUCH to learn from such successful entrepreneurs and that by having a “criticize this, pick apart that” attitude – it becomes awfully difficult to pick up those golden nuggets that are relevant to each of us.

I Valued The Networking Potential

Additionally, one of my biggest motivators for coming to Shine was the fact that I would be able to surround myself with other driven, success-minded individuals and find new mentors, clients, associates, and friends. I realized that the networking at this event alone had the power to change my life.

I’m pleased to say it absolutely did!

• I was able to meet people who encouraged me, uplifted me, and also forge some awesome new business relationships. In the three days I was at Shine:
• I was able to begin negotiating a business partnership that has allowed me to replace the income from my bank J.O.B.
• I had found many young entrepreneurs like me, and even found a dynamic web services firm looking to subcontract graphics work to designers such as myself by Day 2 of Shine!
• I found an array of awesome new clients who have allowed me to generate enough revenue to make back my Shine investment in a matter of WEEKS.
• I found mentors and friends to encourage me and keep me inspired as I truly begin my journey as an entrepreneur.
• I was fortunate to meet many of the people I have been following online, as well as meet some of my clients who I’d never been able to meet in person – including Christine Gallagher, Mia Chambers, Lorrie Morgan Ferrero, Kelly O’Neil, Lisa Manyon, James Roche, and of course…Ali Brown!

…and I’m just scratching the surface!

Bottom line – this all again boils down to having an open mind towards risks we take, and anticipating the possibilites than can arise for us, including networking with other high-calibre entrepreneurs.

(I’m Canadian by the way, so the spelling of “calibre” isnt a typo LOL!)

I Saw Each Moment As A Learning Opportunity

One of the things that shocked me most was the fact that some event attendees had several negative things to say about Ali’s time to feature her Millionaire Protege Club coaching programs, and that they found this as a “tacky” upsell.

Was it a chance for Ali to showcase her product offerings and generate new business for her high-ticket mentorship? Yes!

Was it also a chance for me as an entrepreneur to learn some big lessons and take some c-r-a-a-a-z-y notes? HELL YES! (Again, this boils down to ego vs. bank account!)

I’ve read this on a few other blogs – but let me say it myself…all I know is that when a stampede of literally HUNDREDS of women (oh, and a few guys too!) are heading to the front of the room to pick up their applications for an $18,000.00 or $100,000.00 business coaching program…you’re doing something right!

I was able to take away many pearls of wisdom from Ali’s platinum and diamond students, and also witness the fact that Ali had structure her panel in such a way that she was educating the audience through her students, showcasing the proven results of her coaching programs, and gaining some red-hot testimonials– all in one shot! BRILLIANT!

When I’m hosting my own live events (which I promise you, will be happening far sooner than you might think!), I’ve just found a formula for success that I never bargained on learning!

I Came Home And Took ACTION, ACTION, ACTION!

You’ll notice that this post is coming your way November 21…almost 2 full weeks after the Shine event wrapped up! There’s a good reason for that – instead of comparing notes with others on what I felt that the Shine event may or may not have offered, I put my head down, got CLEAR, and took DECISIVE, RAPID action!

Since leaving Shine, I’ve accomplished the following:

- Put up my personal site and blog, which I’d been procrastinating for months (the one you’re one right now!)

- Scheduled and designed sales copy for my first-ever teleseminar (If you haven’t checked it out yet, take a look and sign up here!)

- Designed a new pricing and service structure that I expect to at least triple my income within the next 6 months while better and more effectively serving my clients!

- Closed literally thousands of dollars in future sales and business

- Forged a relationship with some of the brightest and biggest names in the information marketing world — who I will be working closely and mentoring with — but you’ll be hearing more about that in the near future!

…and the crazy part is that this is ONLY THE BEGINNING.

Again, to repeat one of the big takeaways I got from Shine, money is attracted to both clarity and speed – and so I’ve reacted to the knowledge I gained at Shine with exactly that! As I like to say – you need to strike while the iron’s hot!

I hear it now — “OK, but you’re a brand-spanking-new, 19 year old entrepreneur who was on stage with Ali, and won a scholarship!”

Yes, I will admit that while I may have been granted a scholarship to the event itself, as a 19-year-old student previously making $13.00/hour (Canadian!) while supporting my living expenses, this trip was bar none the biggest financial risk I have taken in my life – and so when many of you discuss having invested significantly into attending the Shine event; I can completely relate — which again is why I am so glad I approached the event with the attitudes I described above, and why I am so thankful that I was able to get so, SO much out of my three days in Las Vegas. Once again, I can confidently say that this risk has paid off many, many times over!

Additionally; I realize that the opportunity to receive publicity and exposure from my “hot seat” was without a doubt an absolute blessing and life-changing event; yet at the same time, with or without this event I would have been thoroughly satisfied and thrilled I took the risk to come to Las Vegas — because I would have gotten virtually just as much out of the event regardless of whether or not I had time on stage with Ali and James.

With all that being said…I truly hope that I have clarified my position and opinion on the critics of the Shine event and the content it offered, in addition to perhaps motivating and/or challenging anyone who has been cynical of their Shine experience thus far to take a new perspective on things and see how much the event was actually able to offer!

Positive or negative – I’d love to hear your feedback and debate!

© 2009 Adam Haroun. All Rights Reserved.

4 Surefire Signs You’re Ready To Take A Risk

Just about 2 weeks ago, I took one of the biggest risks of my life and, as many of you who have been following me may know, decided to quit my job and make the leap to taking on my business full-time! Was it a risk? Absolutely! However…there were several key signs that made this risk a smart move for me…and I’d love to share these key factors with you so that perhaps you may be able to better evaluate risk for yourself.

It Resonates With Your Emotions

Sometimes, there`s a risk presented to you that gets you excited, stirs you up, and starts to put at your heart. A risk shouldn`t necessarily be “comfortable” (in fact – far from it), but it should be something that you are emotionally committed to, and that you know you would regret it you missed out on.

In my case, I was extremely passionate about my business and growing it to a full-time, thriving enteprise – and at the same time I felt frustrated, dissatisfied and unfulfilled about the job I held. I knew that if I didn`t take the leap and begin developing my business into everything it could be, I would regret it on both a personal and financial level…so needless to say that in this case, risk seriously resonated with me emotionally.

The Risk Can Be Justified Logically

Although emotions are certainly important to take into consideration, risk must also be approached with logic. Does the risk you are consdiering make sense? Is it something sensible for you at this point in time? Can you justify the potential rewards this risk offers you? My next points will discuss this in a bit more detail, but let me also explan this with an example:

Looking at the income at the income I was earning in my position as a bank teller, and the potential revenue I could create my changing my pricing structure and pursuing my busness full-time; I saw a realistic and achievable path to both replace and exceed the income I was making at my J.O.B. Not only that, but I came to understand that if I wanted to create a six-figure business (or beyond), I had to create the time to do so by letting something go; both of which were two critical factors in justifying the risk I was about to take.

You’re Financially Prepared

It goes without saying that taking a business risk will lead to financial consequences – oftentimes for better, but sometimes for worse. When evaluating risk, evaluate whether or not you are prepared to take on the financial changes that may come with the endeavor you are about to undertake. This may mean better budgeting your current finances, or thinking ahead and “saving for a rainy day”. Personally, I had saved up roughly 3-4 months of living costs to cover any “lean” periods I may have in my business. While you must remain diligently focused on success, and stop at nothing to make it happen, at the end of the day being financially prepared is an excellent way to ensure that you have the greatest chance of succeeding and “bouncing bask” from any circumstances you may encounter as a result of risk.

The Potential Outweighs The Cost

The final factor I have to share with you is one that made it possible for me to gain absolute clarity in my decision to take a risk – weighing what a risk could offer me against what I had to lose. Before me was the opportunity to gain financial independence, surround myself with other high achievers, go after my dreams, and forever change my life. What did I have to lose? A job where I was making $325.00 per week – CANADIAN! That being said, when I weighed the potential of quitting my job against what I would be losing; it truly became a “no-brainer” decision for me and allowed me to step forward with confidence.

Using these tools, I believe that risk can go from something that others (and even you yourself) may see as “foolish” or “out of the blue” to a calculated and strategic move that will allow you to prosper well into the future…and I’d encourage you to try these tools for yourself!

© 2009 Adam Haroun. All Rights Reserved

I know this post is a little long-winded…and I’d kindly ask that you take time to read it, and not just “skim”, as I’ve got lots to share and there’s been so much on my heart since our time together in Las Vegas. I feel that now is the perfect time to share everything, and I’d love your advice, opinions, and feedback!

Just One Week Ago…

It’s hard to believe, isn’t it?! The fact that it’s already been one week since we were saying our goodbyes and getting ready to move forward from Ali Brown’s SHINE event, an experience that I know completely transformed my life and business, and an experience that I know likely did the same for you. I want to sincerely and personally thank each and every one of your for your support, encouragement, kind words, and friendship during the event and onwards – as it has been this support giving me momentum and carrying me forward into this week and well beyond.

Without a doubt, flying all by myself (for the first time!) to the U.S. and investing in airfare, hotel, meals, taxi fare (as I wasn’t even old enough to stay at the Venetian resort – LOL!) and of course, a bit of shopping (have you guys SEEN the Lacoste Store at the Las Vegas Premium Outlets?!) – was bar none the biggest and scariest financial and personal risk I’ve taken I my life thus far, and one that has undoubtedly paid off.

The Real Journey Begins…

Upon returning to gorgeous Montreal, I took Monday to myself to nap off the jetlag, catch up my friends on the huge changes that my life had made over the three days, and simply sit back and reflect on the fact that going forward, my life and business will never be the same.

That next morning (Tuesday) I walked into work, signed onto my PC at the teller desk (oh, by the way, I’m a total Apple guy!) and waited for my branch management to arrive for the day. At around 10AM; I kindly asked to speak with my managers, where I explained what had happened this past weekend – and that it was time for me to make room for the changes happening in my business, proceeding to give my resignation letter (which I’ve posted to share with all of you on Facebook – go ahead and check my previous note!

Was it scary? Yes! Is it still a bit uncomfortable? Yes! However, I know that I have that whole room of you rooting for me and standing behind me, and it’s that knowledge that makes it so much less daunting to be making such large strides in my life.

My last day at the bank will be November 24, and I’m not looking back in the least – because the journey I’m now embarking on is worth so much more, and so much bigger…

Where I’m Heading….

Again, now that I’m settled back home and the “dust” following SHINE has comfortably settled, I’ve began taking action and making changes in my business.

The first change I’ve made, and that I’d love your feedback on is the fact that I’ve properly launched my personal site (still very much a work in progress!) at http://www.adamharoun.com – where you’ll find my blog, bio, updates, and more. It’s an extension of my life that I’m privileged to share with all of you, and a project that is just beginning. Let me know how you like the content and layout so far – and what you’d love to see on this site! Just so you know, if you join the VIP Mailing List on the site, you’ll get a 15% design services coupon from my design firm, Advance Enterprises to be sent out November 25.

Next, I’m quickly working away at developing new packages and services through my design firm, Advance Enterprises. Although this is still in the works, the “grand re-opening” will be November 25 with a one-time, complimentary teleseminar “SECRETS REVEALED: Graphic Design – The High-Return Investment You’re Missing Out On!” – and it would be my honor and privilege to have you attend. For more information and details one this one-time-only, f.ree event, go ahead and visit http://www.advanceenterprisegroup.com/designteleseminar.

Taking Action & Never Looking Back…

Among the priceless takeaways I got from SHINE was the fact that to succeed, you must act with both CLARITY and SPEED. I’ve already begun making serious changes in my business, and I hope you’re in the process of doing the same. I know how daunting it can be to start a new business project, and that most of us want to ensure that when we invest in new projects, our spending decisions are wise; and that we see a return on investment as quickly as possible.

It’s for this reason that I’ve decided to extend the very special offer I made available at SHINE, an offer I would love to share with you at http://www.adamharoun.com/specialshineoffer . Although Ali and Anne told me to raise my rates (and I’m in the process of doing so as we speak) – I still made sure that this offer is very accessible to everyone.

The Growth Continues…

Finally, I’m proud to announce that some exciting new doors are opening for me, and I’ve been afforded the opportunity to work side-by-side with some of the brightest minds in the information marketing industry…something absolutely humbling and very personal to me, but at the same time, a journey that I’m excited to share and tell you more about in the near future. I am a firm believer in constant mentorship and education; and know that this is only the very beginning for me…

But I think that’s more than enough about me…I’d love to hear what changes and growth you’ve been making since our time together at SHINE, what your biggest takeaways have been this past week, and how I may be able to serve you in any way.

So in conclusion…thank you so, so much – to each and every one of you. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me

Best Regards,

Adam Haroun

Write this date down on your calendars:

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

8:00 PM EST / 7:00 PM CST / 5:00 PM PST

Ready For Some Insight? Here’s Just A Sample Of What You’ll Learn

• Why you may be leaving thousands ($$$) of dollars on the table by ignoring your graphic design needs!
• Discover your most precious resource as an entrepreneur, and why hiring a graphic designer allows you to maxmize it exponentially
• Why the wrong design is (believe it or not) actually even worse than having no design at all!
• What you should look for when choosing your graphic designer (and it’s not price or experience!)
• The three simple (yet often-overlooked) steps you must absolutely take when shopping around for a graphic designer
• The “dirty little secret” that can allow you to turn one simple design project into a red-hot marketing tool that pulls in profits long-term!
• How two simple questions can help you find out if a graphic designer is right for you; or if you should save your time (and money) and move on…
• Why a client-designer relationship must absolutely be long-term, and how to avoid getting the “short end” from your design team.
• Exclusive information on how you can become a charter member of the Advance Enterprises VIP Client Program, and a discount offer exclusive to call attendees!

For more details, and to claim your spot, click here!

As of November 10, 2009 – this past Tuesday – I made one of the scariest, but ultimately the most beneficial decisions in my life, and made the leap from employee to entrepreneur by quitting my 30-hour/week job.

How is this possible?

Hard work pays off, and when you ask God for something, let me tell you, he provides ABUNDANTLY and without fail…

This past weekend, I had the honor and privilege of being selected as a scholarship attendee to Ali Brown’s SHINE event; at which there were live business makeovers – one of which was my own.

Not only did self-made millionaire Ali Brown and leading business coach James Roche tell me to raise my rates, and take the leap of faith to moving from employee to entrepreneur…but so too did Ali’s mentor, BILLIONAIRE Anne McKevitt who shocked me by coming on stage.

(You want a “deer in headlights” face?! You should have seen mine!!!)

All I know is that when a MILLIONAIRE and a BILLIONAIRE both tell you to do something….you DO it.

What’s more, as a result of this exposure; I now have an abundance of new business, new opportunities on the horizon; and profitable new business relationships – so much so that I have prospects and new business to provide me with the income to QUIT MY JOB.

That being said, here is my resignation letter. Although this is without a doubt one of the scariest and most uncomfortable things I’ve ever done; I know that it is for the best, and that the best is yet to come, because it is when we are our MOST uncomfortable that our growth is the greatest.

—-

Dear Branch Management,

It is with regret I must inform you that I, Adam Haroun, am hereby resigning from my position as Customer Service Representative with The Bank of Nova Scotia as of Tuesday, November 10, 2009. My last day of employment will be November 24, 2009.

It is thanks to the mentorship, guidance, support, and friendship provided by each one of you that I have been able to experience the personal and career development, refine the skills, and build the confidence that have made my time as a Scotiabanker such an enjoyable working experience over the past 6 months.

It goes without saying that opening a new branch of an institution as large as the Bank of Nova Scotia is no easy task, and I know that it is the dynamic spirit of the McGill Metro team that has made the journey from new branch to thriving branch so effortless, enjoyable, and rewarding.

If I can be of any assistance during this transition, please let me know; as it will be my pleasure to help in any way possible.
Best Regards,

Adam Haroun

—-

This is only the beginning of my journey, and I can only wait to see where my path as an entrepreneur will lead me from here forward!