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Success Symposium Summary
This past Saturday I had the special opportunity to give a Transformation presentation to a fantastic group of 3,700+ motivated goal setters and achievers who were attending the second annual Success Symposium at the Anaheim Convention Center. The energy there was electric! It’s so exciting to talk to people who are open and eager to learn about meaningful ways which they can improve their lives and become successful so this event was a lot of fun.
The symposium was put together by the new Publisher of Success Magazine, Darren Hardy. He and his wife Georgia both have a passion for health and fitness and see it as one of the essential components of living a truly successful life. If you get a chance to check out the new Success Magazine, I’d highly recommend it. It’s all about achieving better results not just in your career, but in your well being, relationships, finances… your life. I read the magazine because it has so much good information about the science of setting and achieving goals. I’ve always been interested in that, and what I’ve learned has helped me a ton over the years.
The 5 Key Questions
This presentation was all about what I call the 5 key questions. It’s a set of questions that prompt answers which lift your awareness and provide insight which can help you successfully transform.
Q1: Where are you now?
Answering this question is an essential step in the process of Transformation. In Body-for-LIFE, this question was answered with a before photo. In the new Transformation model, it’s a before photo and even more importantly, a brutally honest inventory of feelings, perceptions, and beliefs which paint a picture of your inner condition at a starting point.
Q2: Where are you going?
Answering this question is vitally important to your success. You see, if we don’t consciously, and optimistically, look towards a future vision of ourselves and our lives, we, by default, end up creating the same life circumstances over and over again. It’s truly stunning how much it helps to see, in advance, where you’re going. Keep in mind that the human brain is very much akin to a biological quantum computer, with a built-in navigation feature. Thus, when you dial in the coordinates of where your journey is beginning (Q1) and where you’d like to go (Q2), it will help guide you there. Unfortunately, most people behave as if this were not so. They either allow someone else to “program them” (mass media and corporate America are really good at this) or they don’t put in any new data at all and therefore just keep arriving at the same destination over and over again.
Having a vision of how you want your life to look and how you want to feel, weeks, months, even years into the future, is essential to your success. By knowing where we are beginning (Q1) and where we want to go (Q2), we’re already far ahead of those who make the mistake of taking action before they know where they’re starting from and/or where they’re going to. Imagine getting in a car and starting to drive, hoping to go somewhere, but not knowing where you started from or where you’re going to. Without specifically defining your Point A and Point B, you’ll get lost. And even if you did get “somewhere,” it wouldn’t seem like anywhere, if you began with no idea where you wanted to go. Suffice it to say, we must know where we want to go to get there!
Q3: Why?
As I explained to the Success Symposium audience members last Saturday, this one-word question has enormous power when it’s answered. You see, when we’re consciously aware of our “reason why” we’re making a change, we tap into the power of purpose. And it’s that purpose which keeps us going strong even when our bodies and minds want to quit. If your purpose is to make a change so you can make a difference and serve the greater good, you’ll be tapping into inner strength and “Spiritual Will-Power” (greater and much different form individual will). The deeper and more heartfelt your reasons, he more resolve you’ll have to stick with it, and not give up no matter what!
Q4: When?
Okay, so by this point in the process three important questions have been answered: Where are you now; where are you going; and why? Becoming clear about those things is powerful. However, on their own, they’re not going to get you through a Transformation process. We need to now answer the question “When?” and do so in a way which allows us to tap into the power of positive pressure. We do this by making sure we set goals with a strict timeline and deadline for going from Point A to Point B.
Have you ever noticed how athletes like Tom Brady of the New England Patriots take it to the next level once they reach the two-minute warning in a game? LeBron James does the same thing in basketball. When time’s running out, they literally become giants. That’s the superman story – without positive pressure, he’s just an average Clark Kent; but when the stacks are high and time is running out, he transforms into a super-human. As I see it, the message of the super-hero archetype is that we all have the ability to tap into unrealized potential and even access powers which are beyond our individual selves when we are working for the greater good and if we take action with urgency.
Q5: How?
This is where we get into our plan of action – the specific tasks that need to be done in order for us to succeed. Until we’ve answered the other four questions, we’re not ready to answer the question “How?” But surprisingly, what I’ve discovered over the years is that this is where most people start. They just dive into trying to figure out how to “diet” or work out to lose weight, how to get into shape, how to be successful in their career, etc. They just start taking action without doing all the important mindset and soulset work. It’s no wonder so many people give up early on in the stages of trying to achieve something great. After all, without knowing where you’re starting from, where you want to go, why you want to get there, and when, the “how to” doesn’t work. Please don’t you go making this mistake!
Very often, if you answer the first 4 questions, the How will simply show up... you'll find yourself walking by a book store and a particular cover will stand out and draw you over to it. Or a friend will mention something which worked for her and it will be clear to you that's the answer to your How. Don't discount the Divine forms of communication and 'nudges' which come your way when you ask How and then remain open to the answer. My experience is that God speaks to me through signs, symbols, numbers, insights, intuition, feelings, synchronicity, certain people... and sometimes google. :)
What you'll likely find is that you'll be led to teachings which are just right for you. And most likely proven plans of action. For example, when it comes to physical fitness and getting in shape, “How” could be answered with the Body-for-LIFE workout and Eating for Life nutrition plan. In terms of empowering personal growth and achieving emotional and spiritual well being, the Transformation method which I’m unveiling this year is also a specific and proven plan of action. There are many true teachings and systems out there which work. Follow your heart and you will know which way is right for you. Perhaps you already do... and just maybe that is why you are reading these words right now.
The 5 Key Qs
Q1: Where are you now?
Q2: Where are you going?
Q3: Why?
Q4: When?
Q5: How?
Answering these 5 key questions, as I explained to the Success Symposium audience last Saturday, works because it helps us develop mindfulness, and propel our thought processes and actions toward creating new and better ways of doing things which in turn creates continual progress and rewarding results!
Until next time...
Bill Phillips
P.S. A big and special thanks to all the people who waited for up to several hours at the Anaheim Convention Center to say hello; I enjoyed meeting all of you and I appreciate your support!
I love reviewing the things I read here!
I thought I would answer the 5 Q's for myself as a matter of self reflection. Q1: Where are you now? A man early fourties healthier and more engery than I had six months ago, thanks to taking the body for life challenge, and following the body for life program. Q2: Where are you going? To be the best I can be for myself. That means continual work, and achievement till the day I die. Q3: Why? To inspire other's and be an example for them. To let people know you can do it, without making excuses for yourself. Q4: When? HERE AND NOW Q5: How? Through inner strength, the power of prayer, and the help from up above.
Bill: Applying your specific insight is like finding a detailed roadmap after years of flying blind. Definitely the "ultimate" GPS technology to reach destination Spiritual Transformation. What a Divine Force, an endless desire to share the Light and diminish darkness.
You really know how to get people motivated...Thank you....Vicky
I saw you at the Symposium in Calif. All I can say is that you changed my way of thinking about what is important in life. For the first time in 4 years I feel that I'm important & I have signed up for your challenge. Thank you for being you!!!
Bill, I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for your inspiration and motivation. Thanks for making yourself available to every body on the cruise. You are truly a down to earth, heart warming person. Bob, forever young at 72.
It sounds so pat. If this were easy we all would have done it long ago. I don't know if you've ever been really fat Bill but even if I don't have all those answers down pat, this is so motivating for me. That is my biggest challenge, so thanks for the oportunity
Billy, You are still rockin- it seems you are still RIGHT ON- rousing, luminous and yet still sensible with your own two magic feet on the ground . I know you have been through a lot in your life and you have your struggles like the rest of the world- and to me you remain the real person you are- without letting yourself be distracted by trials or tribulations. Thanks for being SO YOU! Its an inspiration and I am thankful yu have helped so many people- take care of YOU, and maybe I will see you back in the old home town one day!
Well...I have no problem with this one Bill. I am totally and full out doing this only for my health and looks :P First my health...I had a bached up surgery in 01 and was pretty much bedfast and in pain until this past year. During this time of course I lost and gained some weight back. I was never over weight until my second marriage went bad so this is hard for me to fight. And up until this illness I have been strong and could do anything...even though I was overweight. Since 01 I have lost muscle tone and been very weak. I am building up my muscle tone and strength and really that is more important to me then even the weight loss. Although that is a great side effect and I do want that too. I began the program just 2 1/2 weeks ago and I did my before pictures that totally blew me away (bad). I had the trainer at the gym measure, weigh and do my BMI...which I wasn't suprised what so ever with that. I wasn't going to do it again until my first 4 weeks was up...I have been working out 6 days a week (I still have a love hate relationship with it) and so last night I really tracked my strength with the weights and was so happy to see that I am going up in weights. I am seeing strength...and I have been almost totally pain free the past week or so. Anyway, I went ahead and had her measure me lastnight and weighed in. I couldn't wait...because I have been seeing results in my clothes. I have lost 4.25 in. and lost 5 lbs. My perfectionistic attitude is that wasn't enough...but felt good and proud of myself that I have stayed on the food program and exercised to my fullest every day. I usually will not stick to something...and I am so proud of myself that I am and have stuck to this. That is my goal...to "stick" to it and to be strong and LOOK GOOD TOO! Thanks so much. Keri
These 5 questions are great! And really helpful, thank you for sharing them with us! I have a question about Q1: I have a hard time answering that one for my self.. When I look at my before picture, I know exactly where I am, and what I want to change. But when I try to look at my inner condition, such as feelings, perceptions, and beliefs I can't really see where I am, it's like my mind gets cloudy and I can't figure out where I am. I just know that I want to change because I'm not happy where I am, but I don't know exactly what I need to change. Is there any key questions or way of thinking that may help me find out where I am? Anyone who have any ideas how to find out? Thanks :)
Bill, you are so motivational. Your success is directly related to your passion for helping others. Thank you so much for feeding my mind and soul with such powerful words. I love this! God Bless You, Kimberly
I learned about the Anaheim event at the last second, if not I would have been there for sure. That taught me a lesson: From now on, keep up with what's going on by regularly checking the "Speaking Events with Bill" page. Thank you so much for the powerful highlights of the success road, ...Colonel! PS: thank you so much for all the pics as they are powerful links in themselves.
Thank You Bill. That gives me a lot to work with. I appreciate your clarity.
Hello, I signed up for the Transformation Challenge two days ago. I thought I would be getting an email with instructions of what to do. Obviously, I missed something. Can you tell me how to start? Thanks! gary 44 gary@garymiley.com
Listening to you at the symposium was a motivation. My sister and I enjoyed meeting you after your talk and finding out what a down to earth person you truly are. You are an inspiration!
Bill, Thanks so much for sharing that message for those of us who couldn't attend. That was inspiring as always!What a great motivator you are. You always make people want to keep striving to be better people...what a blessing God has given you. I hope I don't have to wait a couple of hours to meet you in Tn!!!! God bless. Erin
SPIRITUAL WILL POWER----this phrase really struck home for me.THANKS BILL!!!!! I hope to see you in TN. Rusty
Bill, thanks for sharing the symposium with us all. I really appreciate your words and your work to help us better our lives for the greater good. May God Continue to Richly Bless You!!!
Bill the writing is "on the wall" as they say. You just put it there in true Bill form. It is crystal clear at this point and I used these questions to evaluate where I stumble. Q4. Is my biggest hurdle !! When? I just have to figure out "why" my "when" is not urgent enough. I am working through the rest at a good pace(I think) but the "when" is more of a priority setting exercise.I need more work there and thanks for helping me find my "When" !! Lol Peace, Dave
I am with you Bill as my life has always been guided by Signs,People (Angels put along my path) Numbers,and at times the computer has a input. I have ALWAYS had a inner knowledge in my heart & soul..my gutt feelings and intuition lead the way. If I ever second guess myself ,then is when I am wrong. My heart speaks volumes about this place & I can not drown out the chatter since I have been here in any way as they then send me signs over & over until I listen. In my heart I always knew this place would exist & the HUGE potential it has to reshape the World for the BETTER. I am forever indebted to you for creating a place I only had in my heart for 40 years ..to make this place a reality is a BLESSING to so many & unbelieveable events will unfold as time goes on...my heart and soul sing your praise for bringing PEACE to peoples hearts which WILL inturn bringPEACE to the WORLD..with much admiration & respect always,Laura & Baby Reggie *^*
You are the BEST! You motivate me, and the energy that you gave me last Nov. to make the changes I have, have helped countless others thru me telling your story. I now exercise with my daughter and my mom. Three generations enjoying each other and getting in shape too. What could be better than that.
Happy to hear that the symposium was such a huge success! Thank YOU for your dedication and pursuit to change our Nation, your simple life transforming strategies are helping so many people for the better.
Simple. But not easy. (some might say) The reason it is simple is b/c it is so clear cut, simple steps, quite methodical, like following a recipe. The "not easy" part is setting time out to connect with your spirit, be "in" the quiet, not just be quiet. Decide what matters to you. Not what matters to your family, neighborhood, partners, kids and so on...but what really matters to you, who do you want to be, what do you want to create, what will your legacy be? Great Post Bill. :+) Rena
Once again, you've explained the miracle of transformation in terms which are easy to understand. I know it can be hard for people to make the changes necessary to live a more healthful and meaningful life, but the five questions you've outlined here are the most effective way I've seen to get started.
Not sure if my last comment made it through (wasn't logged in) but just wanted to share one reason your book spoke to me through the "noise" of so many crash diets and other programs nearly 10 years ago was because of what you are covering right here, right now: the questions that we ask ourselves to help discover who we really deserve to be and get out of our own way to success. Thank you!
I wish you spoke at an event near here... the nearest is TN and sadly I can't get off work for that... maybe soon...
Beautiful Bill ! You are the best speaker and writer when it comes to breaking things down. This is the sucess of Transformation Thanks Marty
Thanks Bill for sharing and helping us all to Be the Change.
What a great resource these 5 questions, once again thanks for sharing and God Bless.
Great stuff Bill. This is truly an amazing resource. You will achieve your goal of helping America (I include Canada in that) to #1!!
I am constantly amazed at how well you speak and how this stuff is just up there...in that brain of yours and it flows effortlessly. You are brilliant..you really are! I am so glad there was such a high turn out for this event! Think of the impact you had!!! How exciting! Thank you, as always, for sharing this with us!
AS ALWAYS BILL, YOU BREAK UNIVERSAL TRUTHS DOWN TO A FORM THAT'S SIMPLE TO UNDERSTAND AND LAY IT OUT IN AN EASY TO ACCESS FORM - YOU'RE AN INCREDIBLE WRITER AND SPEAKER MY FRIEND !
I love it!!! Thanks for sharing!
You definitely know how to put it all together and to make it work Right! Mindset and soulset one does not work without the other. Awesome Bill Phillips, Awesome! God bless~ Jerome
I was there too! What a fantastic event!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I took the challenge and this is the first week of the rest of my life! Vene
Thanks Bills for sharing about the symposium that you recently spoke at. I was wondering how it went, and it looks like it was a huge success ;)
"They just start taking action without doing all the important mindset and soulset work." Mindset and soulset work!! You create the COOLEST word actions. GREAT contribution, Bill.
Yes, I have been a "diver" in the past. T.com is so different from anything else I have tried in the past. Your insight to these things is amazing, and it's exciting to be part of this challenge. Hopefully, one day you will visit Michigan. I would love to see you speak in person. Thanks for being who you are!
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