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Transformation Challenge Insight
This message is specifically for those who have just recently wrapped up their 18-week challenge and for those who will do so in the next 9 days.
I wanted to share with you that I’ve been reviewing some inspiring before and after pictures and reading some of the most heart-felt transformation stories ever, over the past couple weeks. It seems like these new transformations are even more extraordinary than the ones from past challenges (and there have been so many great ones over the years). Perhaps that’s partly because of the support and encouragement this group of challengers have received from the great people here in this online community; and partly because with this first-ever online Transformation Challenge, we are reaching up and going inward to do more mindset and soulset work than in previous transformations (although we’ve just begun to tap the surface of where we’re going in the next challenge). The body changes reflected in the photos I’ve reviewed so far really are great, but the clarity and depth of the stories is what has me so inspired and optimistic today!
With so many great transformation photos, it seems very likely that the 3 Champions (who will each receive $10,000 cash for starters) in this Challenge will be chosen based on answers to the key questions which help tell the story. (Those questions are included at the end of this message.) So be sure to answer those questions with genuine heart and soul—with your truth. To a very significant extent, that comes down to how well you know your own story--how much self-discovery you’ve experienced during your 18 weeks of transformation work.
And so please, give yourself an advantage in this Challenge by taking your time with this last and all so important assignment. Contemplate, even meditate, upon the questions before committing to your answers. And please consider reaching deeply into your heart and soul to seek insight. When you do, you’ll not only author an inspiring tale of personal transformation, but you’ll also benefit so much from this exercise. You see, one of the most empowering and life-changing rewards of the entire 18-week process occurs when you pause for some time, and really allow the new awareness you’ve gained to sink in so you can internalize it fully. It’s quite possible that as you answer these questions, and review your photos, that you may have a stunning breakthrough in awareness. When that happens, your chances of ever going back to the way you were before are between slim and none. You see, at that point, you are no longer the same person; you are renewed in the most powerful of ways. There is really no way to fully explain it; you have to experience it yourself. Make no mistake, when you do, you will know what I’m talking about!! That you do, is my intention and greatest wish!
Here’s more insight: consider including some of the lessons you learned from doing the Transformation Assignments included in this online course. My primary objective of the assignments that I included in this Challenge was to help you bring forward an expanded awareness, to help you achieve transformation in the area of your thoughts, emotions, and overall purpose. We added that to our exercise and healthy eating in order to lift this process of positive change to the next level. Any insight you can include in your writing about the benefits of this inner work will improve your score even more.
In closing, I’d like to emphasize how very much I appreciate your participation in this Transformation Challenge. And let me also congratulate you on your effort and commitment to making healthy changes in your life, so you can in turn make a difference in the lives of others.
Sincerely,
Bill Phillips
P.S. I wanted to let you and others in this Challenge focus and see their Transformations through before I introduced the next Transformation.com site upgrade and redesign, so you'll see that within two weeks and I believe you will find the new content and features very helpful. Keep in mind, this site is still just in it's start up phase... there are so many new features in the works--the site will continue to improve throughout the months ahead. Also, we have been working on the videos of last month's events (the Denver Marathon, the Make-A-Wish celebration, seminar in Phoenix, etc.). I'll be putting the first of those videos up on the site next week. The first Transformation TV show begins airing a week from today (11/21). I'll post times and networks on the site next week so you can tune in if you wish. Transformation book is on for Jan. when booksellers feel it will be well received compared to the Oct. planned release date when the overwhelming election coverage and economic news simply over-crowded the media market, making it a tough time to do a TV and Radio book tour that would reach the most people. I apologize for the set back and very much hope you will find the book worth the wait. The next Transformation Challenge is going to begin 1/1/09. Big new incentives and an even more Challenging course this time! Complete rules & regs will be posted on this site in Dec. Between now and then, be sure to keep going strong with your healthy way of living!
Transformation Reminders for Challengers
For this particular round, 3 successful transformers will be crowned Champions, and each will win a $10,000 reward for themselves and another $10,000 which they will donate to the charity or cause of their choice. AND, each of the Champions will be awarded an all-expense-paid, first-class trip for 2 to Hawaii to attend an upcoming Transformation Adventure! And, of course, no purchase of anything is required to enter this Challenge. There are no fees, no dues, etc. This is a FREE service intended to support and encourage positive change in people who are open and ready for it.
In addition to your before and after comparisons, your final Transformation Story must include your answers to these Transformation questions:
- What was your primary reason for accepting the Challenge?
- What were your initial goals, and did you accomplish them?
- What kept you motivated and inspired to stick with it for all 18 weeks?
- How would you compare your energy now versus before?
- How would you compare your relationships now versus before?
- How would you compare your body and physical health now versus before?
- How would you describe your overall transformation - body, mind, heart and soul?
- What's your favorite charity, and why?
- What specific message do you feel that your Transformation story sends to others?
- How did your transformation allow you to BE THE CHANGE that you want to see in the world?
- If your transformation could specifically inspire one other person to make the change that you made over these past 18 weeks, who would it be and why?
- How would you describe your spiritual well being now versus before? Have you gained new appreciation for the gift of health? Have you forgiven yourself and others over the past 18 weeks? Do you feel more spiritually connected and in tune now versus before?
- What are 3 of the lessons have you learned from this Transformation Challenge that you'll carry with you from this point forward?
- Please describe your physical exercise routine throughout the 18 week Challenge.
- How would you describe your nutrition method throughout the 18-week challenge?
- What was the most challenging aspect of completing the 18-weeek Transformation?
- What was the easiest aspect of completing the challenge?
- What was the most fun and exciting aspect of completing the challenge?
- Looking back now, what do you feel your primary reason was for beginning the challenge? Was it the same as what you thought it was initially?
- How do you practice the Golden Rule - the Universal Law of Reciprocation - in your daily life now?
THE BIG TRANSFORMATION QUESTION (COUNTS FOR 33% OF YOUR SCORE)
- As a Transformation Champion, how would you carry the BE THE CHANGE message forward?
(Again, give your best effort to speak from the heart, authentically, and conversationally, as if you were describing your experience to a family member or a friend. Take your time but please don't over-think the responses--simplicity and clarity always help transmit the message effectively.)
How the Champions are Chosen
A total of 3 Transformation Champions will be selected from the Challenge. They will be selected based on their whole Transformation. The body change will count for 33.3 percent of their overall score. Another 33.3 percent of the total score will be how well they can express the inner transformation - the heart and soul changes through written answers to the Transformation Questions. And another 33.3 percent of the total score will be based on how well they can describe how they would carry the message as a Transformation Champion, to others who are still suffering.
Responsibilities
The 3 Be the Change Champions will be invited to share their stories through upcoming Transformation TV videos, future books, and the Champions will be asked to participate in live seminars as well as online programs which are intended to help others transform.
November 23, 2008
All challengers must complete their Transformation by November 23, 2008. On or before December 15, 2008, you must send your transformation story to Bill Phillips c/o Transformation Ventures, Inc., 10100 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 1300, Los Angeles, CA 90067. Winners will be announced on January 21, 2009.
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WOW!! as usual. I wish I could put into words all this transformation has done for me. I try and those that see me get inspired, but words don't ever do me justice for the depth I feel. kennie
Exciting and so meaningful ! Looking forward to the Jan. 1st new challenge and in the meantime learning and working and helping others. Love and trust, Rhonda
When I started my challenge I assumed I would lose weight and get toned. I had no idea how much the transformation would change every aspect of my life. I look back now and feel sad how I took care of myself, or lack of. I was taking care of my children and not me. I am a better person all around due to this way of life. I could never go back and am so thankful that Bill put the challenge out. He has truly changed so many peoples lives. I am forever grateful. Good luck transformers!
What a journey this has been..and will continue to be. I am trying to remain calm and reflective, but have to admit I feel nervous about conveying with "words" what has transpired in this 18 weeks, and for it to be from the "heart". I am looking forward to reading what comes out after deep and thoughtful reflection. I am so thankful I started getting those "ads" online this past summer...or I never would have stumbled here..it has been a huge gift Bill...and a blessing....and I love you all for it. Susan
Bill, I’m getting ready now to start my next TC on Jan 5th. This has been a blast thanks to you and all the wonderful people who populate your transformation website. Many Thanks to You and Everyone here! I’m looking forward to reading the new book. Steve
When I look back on these last 18 weeks I get a little twinkle in my eye from emotions running high in my heart. I have seen so many wonderful hurdles being conquered in so many people's lives that it shakes me to my core. The length of time seemed so daunting before the start and now it is like the blink of an eye in the over all scheme of things. I don't remember the tough times as much as all the joy, Triumphs and new friends that have come into my life. Thanks Bill for being such a bright light in my former drudgery. I am living so high and hard now that the old memories are fading into grey. I have found great love here and at home. Peace, Dave
Thank you for guiding so many to the path and journey of healthy living. Living in the light! Dancing in the spirit. And spreading the word journey across the world! I would like to participate in the next transformation and start from day 1. I have the insert from your first body for life book across the mirror as an insentive to get in shape and stay in shape. Life has been a roller coaster in the single parent arena. I know I will benefit from starting anew 1/1/09. Bless the journey men and women of transformation. I have been inspired by my sister with whom I have drawn closer through her determination and dedicated spirit to transform. She reminds me that I toohave the ability to transform and dance daily in the light of my spirit. Thank you Bill I love ya sis
I would like to emphasize how much I appreciate the opportunity YOU have provided for "me" to participate in this challenge. This has been the most powerful 18 week experience of my life and is an experience (Transformation) that will continue FOR LIFE. I hope that the changes I have made in my life can, as you say, help make a difference in the lives of others.
In a couple years I will turn 50, almost marking the halfway point in my life (as I plan to live to over 100). When I tell people this, so many of them are surprised that someone would want to live that long. I, however, intend to live every moment of it to the fullest. With the completion of the 18 week Transformation, I will have discovered a new and more peaceful me. I have always loved the Lord, but somehow, Bill, you have managed to get me to another level of spirituality and control. I love every year more than the last...regardless of the heartache or tragedies I have faced. Completing my BFL in 2001 and 2003 was a physical accomplishment...I have now transformed my body and my soul. There is truly a special place in Heaven for you, Bill.
I did not come this far to give up now. This blog is the best and yet the hardest. It will be really nice to go somewhere quiet and have "me" time to complete the answers. I have so seen a change in me. Not so much physically, but more mentally and spiritually. My weight lose is some, but my self appreciation is off the scale........it has been a great race...but yet, just a step in the many miles to come!!!!!!!
Dear Bill: Each and every wonderful person here on this site has opened his or her heart to help me. I just finished answering the questions right before you posted this blog. I spoke from my heart and do not expect to change much even after reading all of this. My pictures will be by an amateur and I will not have a tan. But I can offer you a smile and my sincere gratitude. I remember a short time ago thinking of what I could do for you as a gift. The answer is clear now. My gift to you is submitting my completed package of Challenge questions and heartfelt answers along with my before and after photo’s. I also offer my promise right here and right now… I am here to stay and help you with your goals! Thank you again from the bottom of my heart. Sincerely, Mark
Thanks Bill for another well written piece You write fantastic and I soak up your words I also have admired all the work all of you have done and now is your oppurtunity to pray and meditate on where you have been and where you have gone and who you have become and who you are still becoming. This is such an assignment and really let it flow from your heart This excercise has meant so much to me Peace and congragulations all!! Marty
When I started my transformation it was all about losing the weight and fat. I had no idea it would change me as and all around person as well. I am a better husband, father and friend. I am so much happier then I could ever have imagined. Put as much effort if not more into your essay then you have into your last 18 weeks. Dig down deep and good luck.
I found me some courage! I am a competitor, Troy
Bill, Bill, Bill! You are an amazing person. Wow! I cannot believe that 18 weeks is almost complete! This has definitely been a unique experience for me. This challenge was unique in the since that the majority of my 18 weeks focused on my spiritual transformation. I studied God's word more, prayed more, found a complete inner peace, shared positive uplifting thoughts with others, practiced turning negatives into positives, and humbly asked God to use me in ways that He had never used me before. What a blessing this journey has been! As I write this, tears are flooding my eyes not out of sadness, but out of complete joy. I am whole-heartedly grateful for this opportunity and thank God for the adversities that made this challenge different than any other. Isn't it amazing when you realize that transformation isn't 12 weeks or 18 weeks, it is something that happens daily over the course of a lifetime. When we stop transforming, we stop living the life that God has designed for us. Thank you for the light that you share with all of us. You are a blessing! This entire community is a blessing! Much love always, Kim : )
This has been an awesome adventure Bill and I'm blessed to be a part of it. Thank you! God bless~ Jerome
While I did not complete this challenge, I want to say I am *so proud* of those of you that did!! My time will come. But yours is now! You all have worked so hard & I have seen great transformations on the board. I am excited for the "winners" but am truly excited for all of you. You are *ALL* winners! I feel a great connection to you all & am sending you a great big cyber hug & lots of love!! Congratulations!!
Bill, i cannot thank you enough for what you have lead me to do. I'll take some time and reply with my essay. Let me just say, my life has completely changed since I started my transformation. You helped me take a hard look at myself and change the things i didn't like as well as do things I didn't know I was capable of. Thank You!!
I will take my time, meditate, search my soul, and ask my higher power to help me communicate how incredible this journey has been AND the amazing experiences I've encountered in this Challenge.. :) I am grateful... and, it's time to reflect... Thank you Bill!
This is truly just the beginning...having a greater awareness of living LIFE with your heart open and having a clear conscious....feeling and tapping in to your positive energy - healthy living and passing it along to others...I am so excited to hear how your complete LIFE has transformed! With as much passion that you have...channel this into your writing...Congratulations to all of you!
I wanted to leave a comment but the Wizard of Oz is on....lol, I wanted to watch it again after the thread we had on it a while back. Troy
Hi Bill, Thanks. This Transformation Challenge is nothing short of a miracle to those of us participating. I wish I could be more eloquent, but sometimes words don't quite do justice to miracles. I think the change you have been sincerely creating for years, is about to expand exponentially with this program. I'm so happy to be even a tiny part of it. Goodness and gratefulness to you, for your gifts to us.... Debby
I think I wrote my essay 30x's! You just went throught 18 weeks of physical and mental transformation...the articulation of this process requires the same intensity! LET IT RIP!
No insulin, a better body, full of energy, a fighting attitude and a loving caring heart. Went from 24% body fat to 14...Heck i already won. I took a two week rest and I am back at it again. Onward to 10% body fat, onward to helping others lose the fat body and regain their health...Maybe a trip to Hawaii on the way. But rally whom cares. I already finished the hardest lap....I'm on cruise control now! Come on let's lift something heavy!!!
Everything has been so great I am excited to see what the new site will look like. And all the other new things! I am looking forward to it.
Thank you for this reminder of what you are looking for.....I know you will find new members for your team from this group on the site.....they all are very special individuals and worthy to carry the torch forward....I too, look forward to cheering with them as they are announced.....~ Pete
I am a believer. Anita
Super Mega Starjumps of Triumphant Jubilant JOY in cheering you all on...you are all winners in my heart! What an honor and privilege it has been to be part of this most empowering Transformation Challenge! Thank you for BEing the CHANGE, BEing an INSPIRATION and making such a difference! TOGETHER WE CAN BE THE CHANGE to TRANSFORM our Nation!!! God's Blessings... With Respect and Love to you all, Diane xox
Bill, I complete my challenge Sunday. Nov 9th was my real transformation date, when something this wonderful happens to you you remember the date, time and place you were. This was a poewerful change that took place in both me and my daughter. Thank you so much for this inner peace you gave the chance to experience. I have always felt blessed but now I feel blessed and complete. Love, Linda
Carolynn...just perfect, girl. Thanks for blasting me into my weekend. TAKE NOTES, gang!! ~Kevin
Sorry, after my long post, I do want to share something. My father and I have only spoken a handful of times over the last 2 years. Because of this challenge, I opened back up to him. Just cordial talk but nontheless talk. He called my husband this morning and said him and my mom joined the fitness center. He said he can not believe the change in me and it inspired them to get out of the house and start taking better care of themselves. I had emailed him the site here and pictures of BFL Champions in their sixties (they are 66 & 67), I sent him nothing else, just those. They will be joining us for Thanksgiving dinner. The first time in over 3 years. "I" had to transform for this to happen, not them, "ME". No one can tell me this Transformation thing doesn't work! Have an amazing weekend all!
I have accomplished so much in the last 18 weeks - I feel as though there has been more of an internal metamorphosis than a physical. I can't wait for the next challenge but I am not going to stop progressing. Each day I am working on improving the things that I have found need progress. My goal is to help others but I need to get myself in a good strong position mentally, physically and spiritually to be able to assist others. It is amazing what we learn as we peel away the onion skin and see the layers of our lives that need attention. I am loving the process and look forward to studying your book once it is published. It has been a beautiful experience to be part of this website and get to know so many warm wonderful people that are seeking to better themselves and the world around them.
Just 18 short weeks ago, I never imagined it would be possible to be where I am now. I had no idea what was about to take place in my life, which in turn took place in my family's lives. For so long I struggled with my weight and following a program. When I initially took the "Be the Change" challenge, I still looked at it as a physical fitness challenge. Wow, was I ever wrong. Immediately the assignments and lessons took me to places I never imagined. It is like doors and windows in my soul were opening. I didn't always like what I saw first thing, but when I realized the errors in my ways and my part in the negativity that had been taking place in my life, I was able to change that behavior and way of thinking and that is where the biggest Transformation started taking place. Once I took responsibility and stopped placing blame on others for my unhappiness is when my heart opened up and love poured in and out. I like everyone else here has a story, I don't so much want to use that story, but the experience from it to show others that you don't have to live in misery anymore. Bill, Stoney, Shane, Clarissa, Mellie, Sharen, Motivator, Denise, Paul, Marty, you all have been such an inspiration to me along with the hundreds of others here who put so much time in helping in this community. I can only hope that I can pay it forward and return that favor some day. I've said this before and I mean it whole heartedly, I don't know if I will win the prize, but I will continue to "Be the Change" and that is a gift that is totally and completely priceless. I will be forever grateful for being given such an amazing beautiful life. May God continue to Bless this entire community.
How is it that I'm excited to see the finish line but at the same time thinking ahead to what's next?! My health concerns are behind me now (thanks Bill!) as I look forward to the next Challenge...continuing this journey... and sharing with others! (c:] V/R, Ty
Thanks for the encouragement and insight...
The Changes. I am so excited to see the changes. The before smile and the after smile speaks volumes about where you have come from, and where you are going. I can't wait to read about...and feel the depth of how you became the change. The change in your own life...and the change in our world. You've come so far, now take the time to tie it all together as only you can, and let your heart speak. The best is yet to come. =)
i am so excited to see who officially "wins" here as so many of us have battled and beat the old mindsets and habits that we all have won something. i am very excited to see all the new people too. Bummer about the book delay...but....the timing will be perfect...People will be gearing up for BEING THE CHANGE!! thanks again Bill.
WOW! I'm so stoked. Again I'm taken back to the Denver Marathon, flashback to the finish line, jumping and cheering for the team to pour it all out at the finish and ready to celebrate VICTORY. Empty that tank NOW challengers, give the workouts all you have, give the meals and planning all you have, but most importantly, really dig deep and reflect on where you were, where you are and where you get to go to now. Transformation is about what's happening within. So so exciting!!!
ALL about the HEART, Transformers. Can't wait to see the details from the new wave of Transformers that are coming. Only the beginning...thanks BILL! :-)
To all of you who are completing the challenge: It took you 18 weeks of following Bill's assisgnments, eating well, and training, so BE SURE you take plenty of time with your transformation story. My suggestion would be to write it and then rewrite and repeat until you have it all down from your heart and soul. Bill's directions in this blog could not be anymore clear, so be good to yourself and take the time needed to finish strong. Also if you haven't completed your pictures, please consider having a professional do them along with making sure your tan. Again, remember how much work you have put into this, so be good to yourself and finish up strong. Congratulations to all who are finished or finishing up, your transformation has a foundation now and you have some capacity for even more transforming!
I can totally imagine the amazing stories we will see. This community is filled with Champions who have overcome so much adversity in their lives...they are our inspiration and motivation! All of our lives are forever changed through this amazing process called Transformation! Thanks Bill!!!
WAHOOOO! I am ALIVE!........................................DUDE
I second Shane! Absorb this post!! Take your time, be at peace when you go to write your essay and speak truly from your heart. By now, you all have learned and realize this wasn't all about fat loss. I can't wait to read your stories!!!!
Read reread and go over the tons of great information in this blog. The part about his greatest intention and wish is SO POWERFUL AND TRUE. This is a tremendous growth opportunity when you start assessing, compiling your results and coming to see the full measure of the changes you have made. Go get em Transformers!
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