Thursday, September 29, 2011

Soul Train Music Awards Gospel All-Stars performing Mary Don't You Weep

I was checking out my Soul Train Music Awards collection yesterday and I came across this classic that I don't think we'll ever see again.  They don't make music like this anymore and performers don't perform like this anymore.  Music is one of life's great gifts that we can share with each other that uplifts, inspires, makes you cry and makes you happy!  Great singers like Shirley Ceasar, Edwin Hakwins, Cissy Houston, Andre Crouch and so many more are in this performance! 

Slow down for a minute, listen to the lyrics and enjoy!

 

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 17: - Dance With My Father

One of my all time favorite songs is Luther Vandross’ “Dance with My Father.” It’s the only song that brings tears to my eyes every single time I hear it. If you don’t know the song, I encourage you to search online for the lyrics or to buy the music. I don’t know what kind of relationship Luther Vandross had with his father, but I can only hope that the song was inspired by his own personal experience of his father lifting him high and spinning him round and round before taking him up the stairs and tucking him in for a good night’s sleep.

I love the song because it reminds me so much of my early childhood memories with my father. Not that he would spin me around until I fell asleep, but I remember how often he would send me off to bed after checking to see whether I had finished my homework and taken care of all my chores around the house. I respected my dad so much that just knowing he cared enough to check on me meant so much. My dad isn’t the overly emotional type; in fact, he’s always been the strong silent type (I don’t think I’ve ever seen him shed a tear). He wasn’t the type to take me out back and toss the ball with me or shoot hoops with me, but he was always around and he instilled in me all the qualities I would need to become the “fine young man” I grew up to be.

Standing_above_the_crowd


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson - Tuesday, September 27th 2011 at Maggiano's Restaurant, Bellevue, WA

Listen to James' personal audio invitation to you by clicking  this link -
http://qwips.com/38tbvf

 

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“Standing Above the Crowd” is a new book by former Sonic, James Donaldson.  James will be signing his book on Tuesday, September 27th at Maggiano’s in Bellevue from 4:30pm-6:30pm.  There will also be a guest appearance by former Seattle SuperSonic great, Shawn Kemp, and the current Miss Washington 2011 – Brittany Henry, who will also be autographing copies. 

 

“Standing Above the Crowd” is a book about how to Set a Game Plan to Become the Best that You Can Be.  The book also explains what it is like to be a professional basketball player, and what it was like to play with some of the greatest in the game.

 

“You can be all you want to be and do all you set out to do with the proper attitude, game plan, goals, objective, and ‘never say die’ approach,” says Donaldson, an in-demand keynote speaker at business conferences, school assemblies and athletic award dinners. 

 

Although he stands at 7-feet, 2-inches tall, success was not a given for Donaldson, who describes himself as a teenager as a "fat, shy, introverted kid, afraid of his own shadow."   Donaldson opened a chain of physical therapy and training clinics, became active in the community, and even ran for mayor of Seattle in 2009.

 

Come and enjoy some lively conversation, enjoy Maggiano’s delicious food and drinks and meet James Donaldson, Shawn Kemp and Brittany Henry on Tuesday, September 27th at 4:30pm.  

 

Standing_above_the_crowd

If you just can’t get it on your calendar to attend, you can still pick up you autographed copy of Standing Above the Crowd at www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James will autograph it personally for you.

 

Enjoy!

Monday, September 26, 2011

James Donaldson visits his alma mater Washington State University to speak to students and student-athletes Sept. 21st - 22nd.

Listen to James' voice recording of his visit to WSU clinking this link.
http://qwips.com/84i5w4

 

http://www.wsucougars.com/blog/2011/09/basketballs-james-donaldson-visits-wsu...

 

Standing_above_the_crowd

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson - Tuesday, September 27th 2011 at Maggiano's Restaurant, Bellevue, WA

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Press Release

Contact: Mary-Jo Laster

Phone: (425) 487-2723 x101

Email: maryjo@avidevents.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

 

Listen to James' personal audio invitation to you by clicking this link -

http://qwips.com/38tbvF

 

Former NBA All Star launches book

Seattle, WA, September 27, 2011:  “Standing Above the Crowd” is a new book by former Sonic, James Donaldson.  James will be signing his book on Tuesday, September 27th at Maggiano’s in Bellevue from 4:30pm-6:30pm.  There will also be a guest appearance by former Seattle SuperSonic great, Shawn Kemp, and the current Miss Washington 2011 – Brittany Henry, who will also be autographing copies. 

 

“Standing Above the Crowd” is a book about how to Set a Game Plan to Become the Best that You Can Be.  The book also explains what it is like to be a professional basketball player, and what it was like to play with some of the greatest in the game.

 

“You can be all you want to be and do all you set out to do with the proper attitude, game plan, goals, objective, and ‘never say die’ approach,” says Donaldson, an in-demand keynote speaker at business conferences, school assemblies and athletic award dinners. 

 

Although he stands at 7-feet, 2-inches tall, success was not a given for Donaldson, who describes himself as a teenager as a "fat, shy, introverted kid, afraid of his own shadow."   Donaldson opened a chain of physical therapy and training clinics, became active in the community, and even ran for mayor of Seattle in 2009.

 

Come and enjoy some lively conversation, enjoy Maggiano’s delicious food and drinks and meet James Donaldson, Shawn Kemp and Brittany Henry on Tuesday, September 27th at 4:30pm. 

 

If you just can’t get it on your calendar to attend, you can still pick up you autographed copy of Standing Above the Crowd at www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James will autograph it personally for you.

 

Enjoy!

###

 

Friday, September 23, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 16: - Make An Agreement With Yourself

Throughout my life, whether as a professional athlete, a business owner, or a politician, I have come to realize that if we are not true to ourselves, we will get pulled back and forth without a stable support system by the various people and events we encounter. So as we come to the last couple of chapters in this book, I want to emphasize the importance of being true to yourself, and the best way you can do that is to make promises or agreements to yourself that you do not break.

One of the best books I’ve read in recent memory is The Four Agreements by Juan Miguel Ruiz. It gives a great overview of how we’re conditioned as young people, and then we spend the rest of our lives trying to deal with these “conditional” relationships we’ve formed with significant people (parents, siblings, teachers, and the like) in which we continue to grow further and further from who we “really are” in an ever-increasingly frustrating attempt to please them and fulfill whatever sense of attachment, appreciation, and love we seek. Ruiz explains, by contrast, that we really only need to make four agreements with ourselves and others. Below are the main points Ruiz makes, but I encourage you to read all of The Four Agreements for further understanding about making agreements with ourselves and others.

The Four Agreements

Be Impeccable With Your Word

Be Impeccable With Your Word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Don’t Take Anything Personally

Nothing others do is because of you, or at least rarely is any of it directly because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dreams. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.
Don’t Make Assumptions

Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
Always Do Your Best

Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are tired as opposed to well-rested. Under any circumstances, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.

Standing_above_the_crowd


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.


Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 15: - Politics - A Game of Another Sort

Politicians are like diapers; they both need to be changed often and for the same reason. — Mark Twain


The last thing I ever wanted to be was a “politician,” but the reason I chose to run for a political office was so I could better serve the communities I truly care about.

Up until just a few years ago, if you asked me what I thought about politics, I would have told you, “I can’t stand politics and I can’t stand politicians.” My close friends who know me well still remind me how often I talked like that.

Now, I realize that it wasn’t so much that I really couldn’t stand politics and politicians. It was more that politics seemed so frustrating and so futile at times because of the political process people implement and the political games they play. Try as we may to be nonpartisan, everything we do in life is partisan in nature. Even when we talk about being on a “team,” doesn’t that simply come down to “our team versus their team”? It doesn’t get much more partisan than that.

I found out quickly that politics is a game of another sort. There’s a lot of strategy involved and a lot of “chalkboard sessions” that take place in the strategy “war rooms” or campaign offices that are set up during the campaign. It’s a game where you definitely have to do your homework, be on top of the issues, have a thick skin, be ready for battle each and every day, work as a team, and fight to the bitter end for what you believe will be in the best overall interest of the constituents you represent. It can be “down and dirty” at times, with all the pettiness and name-calling, but as I did in my mayoral campaign in 2009 and as I emphasize throughout this book, you have to Stand Above the Crowd and not let all the little petty things bring you down.

Standing_above_the_crowd

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson - Tuesday, September 20th 2011 at The Sip, Seattle, WA

Click here to listen to a voice announcment from James Donaldson!

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 http://qwips.com/32gl4m

Hope to see you then and there!!!

James D.

 

Standing_above_the_crowd

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson - Tuesday, September 20th 2011 at The Sip, Seattle, WA

Standing Above the Crowd book launch event Sept. 20th
http://qwips.com/8l6drd

 

 

 

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson – September 20th 2011

This event will feature James reading passages from his book and signing copies, celebrity appearance by former Seattle SuperSonic, Shawn Kemp and reigning Miss Washington 2011 - Brittany Henry, happy hour pricing and some raffle giveaway gifts.  It will be held at the Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant.  Sip is in the heart of downtown Seattle with a casual and relaxed atmosphere and features progressive American cuisine, world class wine list, and creative cocktail concoctions.

 

 


Date: September 20, 2011
Time: 4:30-6:30
Location:
Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant
909 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone 206.330.9319

Parking Information
1.5th and Madison Garage
  Directly below Sip off of Madison
  Public Access is until 7pm.  Guests can be let into garage by a Sip captain after that time.
  1-3 hours = $8 - $9

2. Madison Renaissance Hotel
Located between 5th and 6th on Madison
Open 24 hours
3-4 hours = approx $18

P.S. if you can’t make the event, you can still order your personally autographed copy of Standing Above the Crowd at www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

Hope to see you then and there!!!

James Donaldson

 

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

Monday, September 19, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 14: - Advice For Would-Be Small Business Entrepreneurs

The first task when starting a business is to round up the resources that will help you fulfill your dream. Who’s going to be on your team? What resources will you need? What experience/skills do you lack that you’ll need to improve? Can you gain those skills by furthering your education? Will your team’s skills make up the difference in areas where you’re currently weak?

I’m the first to admit that when I began, I knew nothing about business. Therefore, I began by rounding up the team members who could compensate and excel in areas where I was lacking. A great shortcoming of many small business entrepreneurs is they think they can do it all, so they try to wear every hat. Running a business requires you to take a good look at what you can and cannot do on your own. Ask yourself, “Am I good at accounting? Do I understand legal documents and contracts? Who’s going to prepare my taxes?” The list goes on and on.

My team background came into play during this process. When I played on basketball teams, I played the position of center. I never pretended to be the point guard. Sure, once in a blue moon, I could throw the ball up there and hit from half court, but that wasn’t my job, and it wasn’t going to benefit my team and enhance our chances of winning. For NBA trivia buffs, if anyone asks you who played the most number of seasons and games without attempting a three-point shot, the answer is me! I knew my job, my strengths, and how to help my team. My job was to stay down in the trenches and battle for rebounds, play defense, and jam home a few offensive rebounds. When you start your business, know your strengths, know your weaknesses, know who you want to add to your team, and what role everyone is going to play.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 13: - What Sparked The Donaldson Clinic

Anyone who has gone through physical therapy knows that the time in rehabilitation seems to pass super slowly. First, there’s almost always the traumatic situation that got you into physical therapy in the first place (automobile accident, falling down a flight of stairs, throwing your back out, etc.), and the pain associated with it. Sure, there’s pain from the injury and/or surgery, but there’s also the pain the physical therapist is likely to cause (not purposefully, though…I don’t think) in the process of getting the injured area to respond to treatment and exercise. I call physical therapy almost inevitable today since people are living longer and are more active than ever. Now, along with death and taxes, there is physical therapy. Even if you skate along scot-free throughout life, if you live long enough, you will wear out your joints and most likely have them replaced, and then, you’ll have to undergo physical therapy.

As I went through weeks and months of physical rehabilitation, I realized I had gone from being one of the strongest, roughest, and toughest NBA players to a patient flat on his back. Simple movements, such as leg raises with a three-pound weight on my leg, challenged me. I was fortunate to have a great team of therapists, athletic trainers, and doctors working with me throughout my physical rehab. They encouraged me to get back to full strength and function again. My injury was not common and few of the professional athletes with that injury had ended their careers or had their ability to perform be hampered, but I still took to my physical therapy like a duck to water because I didn’t want to leave anything to chance. I pushed myself as hard as I could to return to my full performance level as quickly as possible.

During my physical therapy and rehab, I had what you would call a “light-bulb moment” where I thought, “If I can’t ever return to playing basketball again, what in the world am I going to do?” That is when I had the inspiration to start up my own physical therapy clinic. I knew at that moment that if I never returned to basketball, the next chapter in my career would be either as a physical therapist or as the owner/operator of a physical therapy clinic. I wanted to establish a wonderful physical therapy clinic that would provide a positive, uplifting environment for patients who were going through an ordeal similar to what I had gone through.

The Donaldson Clinic began shortly after I finished my physical therapy rehab in 1989.

The_donaldson_clinic_team_-_20102

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 12: - Life Is An Adventure

Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.
— Andre Gide


I have come to realize that the longer I live, the more I learn that there’s so much more to learn, do, and see. Famed musician, Roy Ayers has a song titled “Life is Just a Moment,” in which he sings about how we need to get out there and enjoy it. I truly believe that because this wonderful experience we all share called “life” goes by so quickly, it’s a shame if we don’t experience and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this chapter, I’m going to share with you some of the great adventures I’ve enjoyed in my life, not to show off, but to encourage all of you to get out there and enjoy your lives.

We live in a world that is so fast-paced and high-tech today that I think a lot of us miss out on what it’s like to have blades of grass tickle between our toes as we walk barefoot through a meadow. Or simply what it’s like to take some time for yourself—just to sit on a park bench and watch the pigeons and squirrels play about.

It’s increasingly more and more challenging to get away and find time for yourself; sometimes, you just have to make a concentrated effort to do so. Create your adventures. Don’t wait for them to come to you. Adventures can be as simple as finding some “you” time and getting away from everything and everybody. Try spending a couple of hours just relaxing and breathing deeply. Try sitting in a place where you can feel the calming effects of a body of water, be it at the lakeshore, the ocean, beside a pool, or even looking at it from afar.

When we grant ourselves the ability to enjoy this wonderful life, we’re all the better for it.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 11: - 10 Rules for the Elite Athlete by Greg Guedel

10 RULES FOR THE ELITE ATHLETE

By Greg Guedel

Professional sports is a collection of multi-billion dollar industries, and the search for new talent gets more intense and competitive every year. It’s not uncommon for scouts to begin watching promising athletes as early as middle school, and if you have elite talent, you’ll soon find yourself with an ever-growing circle of “friends.” A few of these people may be genuinely interested in helping you develop and achieve your potential, but most are simply out to get money—your money.

The word “Pro” is short for professional. You need to approach your athletic career as a professional enterprise. The moment you receive your first paycheck, you have created a business: “You, Incorporated.” Just like any other business, you must manage it intelligently in order for it to grow and prosper. The following ten rules are collected from my experiences and the advice of my legal and business partners. Following these rules will help you to steer clear of the problems that derail careers, and give you fundamental principles for managing your success.

1. Never sign anything you don’t understand. If the terms of a contract or other legal document aren’t clear, keep asking questions until you understand everything completely. Some people feel shy or silly about asking questions, or they are afraid they won’t look smart if they do. I guarantee you’ll feel a lot worse if you sign a bad contract, so forget that kind of thinking and be sure before you sign.

2. Always read every contract before you sign it. Never mind somebody who says, “This is our standard agreement” or “Don’t worry; everybody signs this same deal.” Just because somebody else signed the deal doesn’t mean it’s a good deal for you. Make sure the agreement is consistent with your goals and values—if not, negotiate for changes until you’re comfortable with the terms.

3. The three most dangerous words for an elite athlete: Power of Attorney. This document allows another person legally to become “you.” That person can cash your checks, spend your money, and even borrow money in your name without you knowing about it. Someone may ask you to sign a power of attorney “Because then I can pay your bills for you, so you don’t need to spend time on that little stuff.” Huge mistake. There is no reason for you to give up control of your finances, and there is almost never a good reason to sign a power of attorney.

4. Manage your people. If you’re a top-level high school or college athlete, you need to talk with your family members to make sure they don’t jeopardize your eligibility to play by making illegal deals with agents, boosters, etc. If you’re a pro, watch your friends, and make it clear they need to stay out of trouble around you. Having an “entourage” may seem cool, until one of them gets busted for guns or drugs or stealing your money.

5. Get professional help in managing your business affairs. The first two people you should hire are not a driver and a masseuse—they should be your lawyer and your accountant. And don’t hire “Uncle Larry’s cousin the attorney” either. Find respected professionals who have successfully represented high-level clients for many years.

6. Always pay your taxes. Countless athletes have ended up broke and in legal trouble for not paying their income taxes, and the IRS does not play nice. If you’ve made it to the pros and you’re getting those paychecks, get a professional tax accountant on board to prepare your income tax returns right away.

7. Avoid business deals you can’t monitor yourself. The minute you start getting paid, people will start offering you all sorts of “investment opportunities”—most of which are just black holes that will make your money disappear. Forget about real estate deals in Costa Rica or starting a restaurant you’ll never actually eat in yourself. Unless you are familiar with the business and have time to keep track of it regularly, just leave your money in the bank until you find investments that make sense for you.

8. Plan for your financial future. The average professional athlete’s career is less than three years. No matter how talented you are, you must realize that someday your playing career will come to an end—and it may happen sooner than you expect. If you spend all of the money you make while you’re playing, you’ll have to start over from scratch when your playing days are over. The first thing you should do with your money: open a retirement account and start saving.

9. Don’t overspend. Fancy cars are fun, but they’re a huge waste of money. Everybody deserves a nice place to live, but if a house has more bathrooms than you could use in a week, you’re better off buying something more modest and keeping the rest of your cash. Think about your money before you spend it; then get what you need without getting crazy.

10. Act like a business owner. Business owners who party every night, blow all their money, and they forget what made them successful in the first place—they go out of business fast. Remember, you are the CEO of “You, Incorporated,” and you should handle everything you do in a professional, businesslike manner. While other people are wasting time and money playing the “Big Baller” role, you’ll be increasing your success every day.

Always keep in mind: Nobody will care more about your career than you do. It’s your responsibility to manage your career well. If you stay focused on your goals and consistently work hard to achieve them, you will naturally find yourself Standing Above the Crowd.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 11: - If You Want To Play In The Pros

Getting to the Next Level

Most young athletes fail to realize that as they dream about becoming pros, tens of thousands of young people in America have the same goal. That is just a fact; I don’t say it to dissuade anyone from pursuing his or her dream.

If you dream of becoming a professional athlete, I want you to realize that as you move to the next level, from middle school, to high school, to the college/university level, and then finally on to the pros, your work becomes more challenging and your competition greater. You’ll have to be able to respond to the challenges and improve your game along the way. I often see young athletes who, because they dominate at one level, then automatically assume they will dominate at the next without making any improvements. Seek out the best competition so you can prove yourself at every level. There will always be someone better than you, and if there’s not at the moment, there soon will be, so improving your skills and game is an ongoing process.

As you move up the ranks, you’ll see the natural ascension that takes place. Good athletes, and those with raw physical skills, can simply get by in middle school and high school. You first really notice the separation when it’s time for an athlete to try to move on from high school to college. The competition really sets in when the recruiting wars begin for those college scholarships.

Professional recruiters naturally look at athletes from the major colleges and universities, but that’s not always the case. Athletes at smaller schools get noticed too. Dozens of athletes come from smaller colleges who get a chance to move to the pros because they possess that “something special” and the recruiters notice it. So no matter what your level, Stand Above the Crowd and take advantage of every opportunity you’re given to highlight your skills because you never know who might be watching and evaluating you.

Another thing that separates those who do move on to the pros from those who don’t is who wants it most. Unless you’re a first- or second-round draft pick, you will have to work your tail off to prove your worth. There will be times when you will be tested and there will be times when you’ll feel like you’re not being treated fairly, but you have to rise above that. I can’t begin to tell you how many times I saw guys arrive at training camp thinking they could ride in on their high school and college accomplishments. You can pick them out of the crowd easily; they’re the ones who have that “cool” strut. When you get these guys in a conversation, nine times out of ten, they talk about their glory days instead of the job at hand.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Brittney Henry - Miss Washington 2011 to attend Standing Above the Crowd book launch! Sept. 20th (The Sip, Seattle) & Sept. 27th (Maggiano's, Bellevue)

Miss Washington 2011 - Brittany Henry

 

What a thrilling, joyful, exhilarating, experience the last few days have been! Overnight my entire life has changed and I am taking in every moment!

At the Miss Washington Awards Banquet on Saturday night I expressed how grateful I am to have been chosen to represent ALL of the title holders from the class of 2011 and this sentiment will not soon change! All of the other contestants are so beautiful, talented, intelligent, accomplished and it is the greatest HONOR to represent all of them!

I have MANY MANY goals for this year as Miss Washington but these are the most important ones that I will hold onto throughout the year:

1) To cherish every moment as Miss Washington and never lose sight of the honor it is to be in this position. I forsee moments where this job will be trying and I want to always remember how lucky I am to be in this position and savor every moment, good and challenging.

2) To use the “power of the crown” to share my story with as many children in our state as possible! Many of you have heard me mention before that there are 40,000+ low-income children in Washington State. As a young teen I battled depression and low-self esteem issues directly related to my family’s financial status and challenges at home. I can only imagine how much it would have meant to me seeing someone DEMONSTRATE to me what possibilities lie on the other side of a college education. Having been one of those children myself, It’s very important to me to share the accomplishments that I have made with all of these children who are living in similar situations.

3) Rick Brinkley said in his speech to the Miss Washington contestants, ” As Miss Washington, it’s the memory they have of you that will change their life OR change the value of our program in their eyes.”  As the Face of the Miss Washington Organization I want to honor this remarkable program with every moment of my reign. I plan to show the community through their interactions with me, how influential this program is for the development of strong, confident, and committed women for our society.

My goal for this blog is to bring you along this amazing journey with me every step of the way! I will share with you the experiences, events that I will be involved with, my preparations for Miss America, my feelings and emotions throughout this journey and I’m sure many random other things as well. I want YOUR INSIGHT! Please comment and ask me questions, share with me things that you want more information about, particular experiences you might be interested in etc. I am YOUR Miss Washington and I want YOU to be involved all year long!

 

James Donaldson - Washington State University Cougar Legend to Speak to students (and public) on WSU campus - Thursday, Sept. 22nd 3pm- Pullman, WA. CUB Junior Ballroom

NBA all-star

Cougar basketball legend to discuss leadership

Tuesday, Sep. 13, 2011

By Steve Nakata, Student Affairs and Enrollment Management

PULLMAN, Wash. - Former NBA all-star and Washington State University basketball player James Donaldson will talk about leadership and life success at a free public presentation at 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, in the CUB junior ballroom.

Following his senior season at WSU in 1979, Donaldson was selected by the Seattle Supersonics in the fourth round of the NBA draft. His professional career included stints with the San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Utah Jazz and Harlem Globetrotters. He became an NBA all-star in 1988 while playing with the Mavericks.

"He has many great stories to share about his life experiences, leadership and success,” said Milton Lang, senior associate vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment. "He will be an inspiration to all.”

Small business, civic leader
After suffering a career-threatening knee injury, he established the Donaldson Clinic in 1990. Located in Mill Creek, Wash., the physical therapy business thrives, and Donaldson is a consultant for other small business owners.

He is a well-known motivational speaker who frequently visits community organizations and schools to share words of inspiration. He participates in many civic organizations and last year campaigned to become mayor of Seattle. Out of eight candidates, he placed fourth.

This year he released "Standing Above the Crowd,” a book that shares success strategies and life lessons; it will be available for purchase. www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

Inducted into halls of fame
Standing 7-feet-2-inches tall and weighing 280 pounds, Donaldson was hard to miss wherever he ventured in Pullman as a student. In fact, he is the tallest player to ever wear a Cougar uniform. His size certainly gave opposing teams fits as he became one of WSU’s greatest basketball players.

 Donaldson closed his 84-game career as WSU’s all-time leader in both field goal percentage (.542), a record now held by Don Collins, and blocked shots (176), a record that still stands. In 2006, he was elected into the PAC-10 Sports Hall of Fame and the WSU Athletic Hall of Fame.

————————————————

Source:
Milton Lang, Senior Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment, 509-335-3574, mlang1@wsu.edu


Media contact:
Steve Nakata, Manager of Communications, Student Affairs and Enrollment, 509-335-1774, nakata@wsu.edu

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 10: - Fighting For What You Want In Life

I have learned to channel life’s frustrations into a motivating force for me in everything I try to accomplish. I learned a long time ago not to back down and to “go for it.” What’s the worst thing that can happen? What, I might lose? Guess what? I just might win also!

At times, you really have to step up and fight for what you want in life. Fighting doesn’t mean it has to resort to fisticuffs or verbal sparring, but you will have to take a stand. Are you willing to fight for what you want in life? Are you willing to do it? You’re capable and able, but are you willing? Successful people are usually on the offensive and are willing to fight for what they want in life; they are the people you’ll end up competing against when it comes down to it.

There’s no need to fight dirty (and I don’t encourage it anyway), but you’ll find yourself pushing yourself further than you ever imagined if you resolve never to back down.

Stand up for what you want in life and you’ll end up a winner!


Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 9: - Never Be Satisfied

As we went down to Los Angeles to play our weekend set of games against UCLA and USC, we were actually favored to come back with a couple of victories. Coach Raveling did his best to prepare us to return with victory in hand. I was at the top of my game and was a vital part of our team’s success with my rebounding, shot-blocking, and defending.

We got down to Los Angeles and opened up our weekend series against USC. I guess the bottom fell out from there.

Coach Pugliese, still staring into my eyes, told me I had played that way because I’d become “satisfied.” He told me flat out, “James, you became satisfied. You became satisfied with where you are at this stage in your development as a student athlete. What you don’t realize is that you have a long way to go if you’re going to be successful at this game and in life. You became satisfied!” He held out his hands, and in a very stereotypical Italian fashion, gestured wildly, demonstrating where I was (holding one hand about waist-high) and where I needed to be (holding his other hand over his head).

To this day, I’ve never forgotten that lesson. I’ve carried it throughout my life into every endeavor I approach. In the back of my head and in all my endeavors, Coach Pugliese’s words constantly resonate, “Never be satisfied!”

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 8: - Attitude

In thinking about how to begin this chapter on attitude, one of my favorite quotes by Charles Swindoll came to mind. I like this quote because it really hits home with so many of the things we deal with in everyday life.

“I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.
And so it is with you...we are in charge of our attitudes.”

Swindoll goes on to say that the one remarkable trait we have a choice about is the attitude we will embrace for that day.

It’s true! We get wrapped up in what happens to us instead of focusing on the things we can make happen—with a positive attitude. I get teased quite a bit by a lot of friends who say that I always seem to be up and have a positive outlook on life with my “happy go lucky” approach and a seemingly ever present smile on my face. I’m not overly Pollyannaish by any means, but I learned a long time ago that it takes more muscles in your face to make a frown than it does to make a smile, so why not smile! I remain optimistic and keep a positive attitude, despite what’s going on around me. That doesn’t mean that I just sit around and take what life has in store for me; it means doing my part to make life even better. It helps to have a positive and optimistic attitude.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson (and special guest, SuperSonic Shawn Kemp) - Tuesday, September 20th 2011 at The Sip, Seattle, WA

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson – September 20th 2011

This event will feature James reading passages from his book and signing copies, celebrity appearance by former Seattle SuperSonic, Shawn Kemp, happy hour pricing and some raffle giveaway gifts.  It will be held at the Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant.  Sip is in the heart of downtown Seattle with a casual and relaxed atmosphere and features progressive American cuisine, world class wine list, and creative cocktail concoctions.

Date: September 20, 2011
Time: 4:30-6:30
Location:
Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant
909 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone 206.330.9319

Parking Information
1.5th and Madison Garage
  Directly below Sip off of Madison
  Public Access is until 7pm.  Guests can be let into garage by a Sip captain after that time.
  1-3 hours = $8 - $9

2. Madison Renaissance Hotel
Located between 5th and 6th on Madison
Open 24 hours
3-4 hours = approx $18

P.S. if you can’t make the event, you can still order your personally autographed copy of Standing Above the Crowd at www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

Hope to see you then and there!!!

James Donaldson

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 7: Accountability

On your road to success, be accountable and surround yourself with others who will hold you accountable. If others hold you accountable and expect you to do your share of the work, you’ll thrive if you are driven to succeed. Your success will be long lasting; long after the novelty of your celebrity, fame, beauty, or superstar skills wear off (and it happens, believe me), you’ll be seen on the merits of your hard work and integrity, rather than riding on the coattails of fame. People respect those who work hard and do their share of the work. Some people want to see what they can get out of the situation, and others just feel better being around accomplished people. But for whatever reason, make sure you stay accountable to yourself and have a person or group to whom you can be accountable.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

 

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just type my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson (and special guest, SuperSonic Shawn Kemp) - Tuesday, September 20th 2011 at The Sip, Seattle, WA

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson – September 20th 2011

This event will feature James reading passages from his book and signing copies, celebrity appearance by former Seattle SuperSonic, Shawn Kemp, happy hour pricing and some raffle giveaway gifts.  It will be held at the Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant.  Sip is in the heart of downtown Seattle with a casual and relaxed atmosphere and features progressive American cuisine, world class wine list, and creative cocktail concoctions.

Date: September 20, 2011
Time: 4:30-6:30
Location:
Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant
909 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone 206.330.9319

Parking Information
1.5th and Madison Garage
  Directly below Sip off of Madison
  Public Access is until 7pm.  Guests can be let into garage by a Sip captain after that time.
  1-3 hours = $8 - $9

2. Madison Renaissance Hotel
Located between 5th and 6th on Madison
Open 24 hours
3-4 hours = approx $18

P.S. if you can’t make the event, you can still order your personally autographed copy of Standing Above the Crowd at www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

Hope to see you then and there!!!

James Donaldson

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 6: Nutrition - Eating Right, Feeling Right, Living Well

I’d say my favorite foods growing up were hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, French fries, cereal by the boxful, potato chips, soda pop, cookies, pies, donuts, and just about anything else that wasn’t good for you. Hey, after all, I was a growing boy and I had a lot of body to fill. With my dad being retired from the Air Force most of my growing up years, our family shopped at the commissary on the Air Force base. We had a large, old station wagon, and either my mom or dad would drive with one of us kids out to the base and load that station wagon up from front to back, stacked so high we almost couldn’t see out the windows. That’s what you have to do to feed a growing, hungry family of four kids, a mom, a dad, and any relatives who drop by.

I grew up “large.” People constantly described me as “big-boned,” or they would say that I would “grow into” my body and slim down as I got older. On the contrary, I got fatter as I got older until I got involved with athletics in high school.

By the time I reached high school, I was 6’8” and weighed about 330 pounds. No wonder the football coach tried to recruit me to play on the high school football team! I was a good guy, but I wasn’t athletic at all, and added to that, I didn’t care about athletics. Luckily, Coach Calhoun saw some potential buried deep inside that big frame of mine.

At my athletic peak, when I was about thirty, I weighed 280 pounds with 6 percent body fat, and I was able to run a sub-six-minute mile when I reported for training camp to start the NBA seasons. It was through a lot of hard work and being diligent with my workouts that I was able to attain such peak physical performance.

My interest in nutrition and fitness began in earnest as I got serious about athletics. Every day, I’d be sure to pop my daily vitamins (I soon graduated to a small packet of daily vitamins and supplements) into my mouth and begin my exercise routine, following my favorite Jack LaLanne exercises. As with most things in my life that I get serious about, I made it a lifestyle change, not just the fad of the week. Sure, I tried different diets and exercises, just to mix it up a little. I stayed on that path of trying to attain a better nutritional and fitness level by gathering as much information as possible and implementing it into my life every day.

After a recent annual physical, my physician called and left me an extended and enthusiastic voicemail saying he’d never seen blood lipid levels as great as mine, and that whatever I was doing, to keep on doing it. Over the years, I’ve told him I’m a vegetarian, and that I exercise daily. He told me that it’s obviously working for me, and that for a man over fifty years of age, I keep myself in outstanding shape. Of course, like everyone else, I can stand to lose those ten stubborn pounds that don’t want to go away, but overall, I’m very happy with the results and the lifestyle that I adopted over twenty-five years ago.


Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just tpye my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Friday, September 9, 2011

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson - Tuesday, September 20th 2011 at The Sip, Seattle, WA

You are invited to attend the book launch and signing event for Standing Above the Crowd by James Donaldson – September 20th 2011

This event will feature James reading passages from his book and signing copies, celebrity appearance by former Seattle SuperSonic, Shawn Kemp, happy hour pricing and some raffle giveaway gifts.  It will be held at the Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant.  Sip is in the heart of downtown Seattle with a casual and relaxed atmosphere and features progressive American cuisine, world class wine list, and creative cocktail concoctions.

Date: September 20, 2011
Time: 4:30-6:30
Location:
Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant
909 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone 206.330.9319

Parking Information
1.5th and Madison Garage
  Directly below Sip off of Madison
  Public Access is until 7pm.  Guests can be let into garage by a Sip captain after that time.
  1-3 hours = $8 - $9

2. Madison Renaissance Hotel
Located between 5th and 6th on Madison
Open 24 hours
3-4 hours = approx $18

P.S. if you can’t make the event, you can still order your personally autographed copy of Standing Above the Crowd at www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com

Hope to see you then and there!!!

James Donaldson

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 5: Education & Faith - Someone Is Looking Out For You

This chapter’s message is directed primarily to my younger readers or those who have some influence over them.

I’ve found two things on my journey through life that will never leave me—my education and my faith. No matter what happens to me, both are always with me. The same may or can be true for you.

As a high achiever all my life, I have found myself surrounded by some people who are attracted to me because of the achievements I’ve attained—what I’ve done. They’re the type of people who leave you just as quickly when times are bad. I saw that happen when I was with the Dallas Mavericks, at the apex of my career. When I suffered a career-threatening knee injury, all of a sudden, the so-called friends who used to pal around with me just left. They dropped me like a bad habit because it didn’t look like I was ever going to play in the NBA again. I quickly learned who my true friends were.

At that time, I also realized that no matter what happened to me personally or in my career, two things would always be with me: what I had learned and what I believe. One is an actual, physical, tangible experience, and the other is part of your personal and spiritual growth. One you can display symbolically on your wall in the form of a diploma, and the other hangs in your inner being. You can take your diploma off the wall and rip it into shreds, but you’re still educated. Your faith can be shaken to the core, but when you regain your balance, your faith remains. Education and faith never leave.

Friends come and go. Family members pass away. Fame and fortune can be temporary. Success can be fleeting. Education and faith, if you have them, will be with you throughout your life.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just tpye my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 4: Mentoring - Someone Is Looking Up To You

If you take some time to look back over your life, you’ll recall numerous people who have been a positive influence on your life in one capacity or another. Anyone who has had that kind of effect on another is worthy to be called a “mentor.”

Being coached by Hall of Fame great Lenny Wilkens was one of the most fortunate things that could have happened to me upon starting my NBA career. He was definitely one of my biggest mentors.

I was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1979, the year of its NBA world championship. As I had taken a detour to Italy for a year, I didn’t join the Sonics until the 1980 season. The team was still in its prime then since it was manned with NBA championship-caliber players. My teammates were “Downtown” Freddie Brown, John “JJ” Johnson, Jack Sikma, Lonnie Shelton, and Gus Williams. That was a great team to break in with!

Coach Wilkens was a good mentor for me because he treated me like the young professional I was. He allowed me to mature into a bona fide NBA player, while at the same time having high expectations for me. That’s what great mentors do: They play to your strengths and minimize your weaknesses.

One of Coach Wilkens’ strengths was his ability to delegate responsibility to other leaders on the team. He would oversee from the sidelines while my more experienced teammates, such as Fred Brown and John Johnson, would work on the basic fundamentals I needed to perfect if I were going to succeed as an NBA player. He expected us always to be professionals and to conduct ourselves as such. I was allowed to flourish under his coaching, while at the same time not have unrealistic expectations placed upon me.

Wilkens wasn’t a “jump in your face and cuss you out” kind of a coach or mentor, and I appreciated that. He was always very cool and seemingly unrattled by the rigors of an NBA season. That showed me early on that you have to keep a cool head about yourself while pushing yourself to be the very best you can be.

 

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

 

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just tpye my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 3: - Goal Setting: Aim High, Shoot Straight

Goal setting is important, but it also can be fun. When you’re passionate about a goal, you have a reason to get up in the morning. When you know that the day ahead of you will be filled with wonderful opportunities, you can see yourself making progress as you march toward your goals.

Our goals may not always bring about the results we initially envisioned, but they will still get us closer to what we want and we will have wonderful opportunities along the way. For example, remember my goal when I was a rookie in the NBA to play until I was forty years old? Back in 1980 when I set that goal, no one played until that age. With the average NBA career being only three years, few NBA players could foresee themselves playing past their mid-thirties, and perhaps as a result of not thinking it was likely to happen, few of the players ever did play past that age. It’s a funny thing, but when the mind starts telling you certain things (negative or positive), your body has a way of just following along. So if you’re in your mid-thirties and tell yourself you’re old and washed up, you probably will be.

I ended up playing professional basketball until I was forty-two years old. I played fourteen years in the NBA, and six years overseas. That’s a twenty-year professional basketball career. It wasn’t exactly the way I thought I would spend the last six years of my career. At the time, I didn’t appreciate the experience my time overseas would give me. My ego and pride kept me wishing I had played all twenty years in the NBA. But now when I reflect upon the wonderful opportunities basketball gave me, I’m grateful I spent six years traveling through Europe and other countries.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just tpye my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

This Gift of Life by Teddy Pendergrass

This Gift of Life – Teddy Pendergrass

After a visit to a dying friend, father figure and mentor this morning, and then attending the funeral of another wonderful friend, father figure and mentor this afternoon… it caused me to have a few “moments of reflection” on how truly blessed we all are.

Enjoy this gorgeous blessed day, stay positive, and take time to “slow it down and smell the roses”.

Enjoy this beautiful song from Teddy Pendergrass - “This Gift of Life”.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7CY8YckTdc

He says it all with a terrific message in the music. 

If any of us are complaining about our 80 degree weather this week... shame on ya!

Enjoy your day and spread the love!

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file
 

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 2: Doing It In 3D!

As you get to know me better through this book, you will realize that I’m a simple guy who likes simple solutions. I came up with the 3-D concept years ago when I was playing around with a couple of keywords for a speech I was preparing to give to young people. I wanted to use my last name, Donaldson, in the speech so it would be memorable, but I thought, “There’s nothing catchy to play off with my name.” Then it came to me—I could play off the letter D. And right away, I came up with three keywords that begin with D. As a matter of fact, I put them into a concept we’re all familiar with since we are used to seeing things as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, or three-dimensional. Just look around and you can see how many different angles and dimensions there are to just about everything we observe. So I said to myself, why not? Let’s do it in 3-D!

My three D’s are Desire, Dedication, and Discipline. After having the right attitude, and the persistence to “keep on keeping on,” these three keywords are at the top of what it takes to be successful.

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file


James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just tpye my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Monday, September 5, 2011

A Perfect Gift for your Ereader!

Treat yourself to a gift for your Ereader!

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format! You'll find it on Amazon (just tpye my name into the search bar)

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.

Standing Above the Crowd Chapter Summaries and Excerps - Chapter 1: Leadership - Maybe It's Your Turn

I encourage everyone to take a turn at being a leader. You have it within you to be a leader. You just have to tap into your inherent leadership skills and put them to use. The first few times you take on a leadership role, it will take some nerve and courage. But once you get the hang of it, it starts to become second nature. Try little things at first, such as taking the lead among a group of friends with whom you feel comfortable. Maybe take the lead on a project your group has always wanted to do. Then move up to bigger projects and responsibilities. You’ll be amazed by how quickly your confidence grows when it comes to assuming a leadership role.

How do you handle leadership opportunities when they come your way? How strong is your ability to work as part of a team?

 

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

 

James Donaldson’s - Standing Above the Crowd book is now available in ebook format at Amazon (just type my name into the search bar).

Of course, to order your own personally autographed copy for only $19.95, please go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com and James Donaldson will personally autograph your book to you.


Friday, September 2, 2011

Standing Above The Crowd - Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook to Business Success #10

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout, change out your players or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this.


# 10: Find Your MVP -

In order for a small business to thrive, it's important for it to operate as a team.  In order for a team to thrive, it will have many movable and variable parts that need to stay coordinated together.

Every team has an MVP (Most Valuable Person) who the owner feels comfortable and confident enough in to have that person has his/her "Go - To - Guy".  For me that person is my operations manager, Rosemary Bennetts, who has been with me from day one over 20 years ago.

Your MVP may or may not be the most visible or well known person on the team.  Your MVP may be someone who is tucked away in a back office, with their sleeves rolled up, and battling daily in the trenches in order to keep your business running.  Your MVP may be your front desk person, or your hot shot salesperson that you have out in the community.  Whatever the case, work closely with your MVP (they most likely know how the business works better than you do) and recognize them and appreciate them in an appropriate manner.

 

Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com    

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Standing Above The Crowd - Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook to Business Success #9

A Small Business Entrepreneur’s Top 10 Playbook

As a small business entrepreneur for over 20 years and a former professional athlete with a career that spanned about the same amount of time, I've been able to utilize aspects of both those endeavors that have helped enable me to become a successful small business person.

Like a well played game, all businesses will go through their natural cycles of ebbs and flows.  You, as a small business entrepreneur, need to know when to call a timeout, change out your players or when to run another play.  Sports has taught me the value of team play, camaraderie, working towards common goals, learning from your temporary setbacks and the ability to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going.

If I were to put together a top 10 list of "must haves" whether you’re a startup company or a well-established business, it would go something like this.


# 9: Don't Be Afraid of Change -

Even if you feel that you aren't changing, the world around you is.  More importantly, if you aren't changing, you can bet that your competitors are, and most likely trying to change for a competitive advantage over you.

It's only natural for us to get complacent and doing the same old thing because that's what we've always done.

I've got a great quote on the wall in my office that says "change is inevitable .... but growth is optional".  I don't know about you, but I choose to grow.

One of the advantages of having a diverse team is the fact that they offer a broad range of perspectives and opinion.  Older employees tend to stick to a tried-and-true method that may or may not be outdated, while younger employees have fresh brand-new ideas that you may want to consider implementing if the time seems right.


Cover_Copy_-_James.pdf Download this file

The article "A Small Business Entrepreneur's Top 10 Playbook" was written and submitted by James Donaldson, president and owner of The Donaldson Clinic www.DonaldsonClinic.com of Mill Creek, Wa.  Established 1990. 

Donaldson is the author of Standing above the Crowd: Success Strategies in Athletics, Business, Community and Life.  For more information go to www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com  and/or contact him at JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com