STARTUP 101: 5 CRUCIAL THOUGHTS WHEN STARTING A BUSINESS

It seems as if everyone wants to be an entrepreneur.  Whether it’s because your job sucks, it’s just time to move on, you’re sick of working for “the man” or you just need additional income – the word entrepreneur is the “new black”.

I always tell people not quit their day job for the first year of starting a business.  Heck, if you can hold on to your job for 2 years continue to bask in getting a check every two weeks and percentage of your healthcare paid for by your employer.  These are two things that you’ll surely miss when you go out on your own.  TRUST ME.

Making that leap to being your own boss is one that should never be taken lightly.  Here are a few CRUCIAL thoughts twhenstarting a business.  Lessons that I have learned over the years and have to reiterate to myself with each and every venture.

1.  BE OBSESSED WITH WINNING.  Don’t make that leap unless you’re obsessed about it and can articulate a clear and competitive edge over your competition.  What can you do that’s different from the competition?  Running a business is extremely difficult.  If you’re not obsessed with winning, and can’t articulate your blueprint for success – don’t give up your day job.  You’ve got to have that edge.  Even 5 years in with NOLA Ice I will wake up at 5am to make sure we have the best spot at a festival.  I’ll be up all night making sure everything is just right for the next morning.  In every situation there’s a winner and a loser.  No one remembers that you came in second, or were just nominated.  They remember the ones who can register that “W”.

2.  STAY FOCUSED.  It’s so easy to want to move quickly, expand into different markets, but you have to make sure everything is just right before making that leap.  Stay focused on your core product or service before making those next steps.  Don’t expand into a new market, a new location, or add additional products until your CORE product, the thing that made you want to do what you do, is perfect.

3.  DON’T BE AFRAID TO FAIL.  Failure used to be one of my biggest fears but it happened and I learned from it and grew.  Never be afraid to fail.  Your true failure is from not learning why it happened and refusing to pick yourself up and take the next definitive steps to get back on track.

4.  HIRE WELL. I personally say avoid hiring family and friends unless these individuals are competent because once the shit hits the fan they will no longer be your family and/or friend.  Hiring well is crucial to the overall success of your company.  Customer service is huge in any industry.  Having competent, outstanding individuals representing not only your business but you is what will allow you to continue to develop, to continue to grow.

5.  LISTEN.  I can’t stress this enough.  Listening is crucial to the growth of your business.  Some of my best ideas come from my employees and customers.  Listen to their wants, their needs, and try to incorporate that into your corporate structure.  Never be “too good” or “too smart” to at least listen to the advice or suggestions of others.  If you are not prepared to close your mouth and open your eyes and ears then this industry may not be the one for you.

What else would you add to the list?

Website: http://www.NOLA-Ice.com, http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com

Twitter: @NOLAICEBham @BonTempsBham

Facebook: ww.Facebook.com/NOLAIceBirmingham

Mental Health Breaks Are Real

I once dated a guy who said my job, as an entrepreneur, was easy.  Reason?  Because I could set my own hours.  So if I didn’t want to come in one day, I didn’t have to.  Needless to say, he didn’t last long because he didn’t understand my life (and for other reasons to not be mentioned here).

Being your own boss is not easy.  In many ways, especially when dealing with a start-up, you don’t dictate your time – your clients do, your employees do, etc.  Thankfully, I have some of the most understanding friends in the world in that none of us are able to “see” each other like we want, but thankfully texting, emailing and the occasional phone call allows us to be “up to date” on what is going on in our respective personal and professional lives.

Mental health days are real.  But you can’t play “catch up” when it comes to your health.  This year I have vowed to do more for myself.  Be selfish in a way.  But also create a space that allows me to just relax and chill out mentally and physically.  So I’ve taken steps to invest more into my home.  This may sound crazy but I don’t always find the time to get certain things done around my home.  So I hired a cleaning company that comes every two weeks.  I’ve also finally taken steps to get my backyard cleaned up.  This past weekend I purchased a grill and had friends over to christen (and build) it.

I’ve finally realized that I can’t be the best entrepreneur that I can be for not only my company but also my employees if I don’t take some of the duties of everyday life off of me.   I’ve also realized that I can’t be the best friend, daughter, granddaughter, aunt or girlfriend if I don’t take care of myself and my surroundings.  Trust me, you don’t want to deal with an angry and stressed Kelli.

Here are a few reasons for why you should take more time to devote to your personal life – so that your professional life can be 100 (as the kids say):

1.  It clears and refreshes your mind.  Take a trip and don’t feel guilty.  It’s 2015.  Ipads, laptops, cell phones, Harry Potter Owls.  We’ve developed a whole lot of technology so you can work from a plane, boat, beach, etc.  And don’t feel guilty for working while on vacation.  You’re still an entrepreneur.  You may have employees, and you may trust said employees but there is nothing wrong with checking in.  There’s nothing wrong with playing catch up while away.  Sometimes that’s the best time to actually get work done.

2.  Your Mind Will Pop.  Honestly.  Some of my best ideas come while working out, conversations with great friends and car/plane rides.  Doing the same thing daily, talking with the same people daily will not allow you to be the creative person you once were when you first started your respective company.  But when you step back, chill out, your mind isn’t as cluttered and you’ll find your creative juices flowing.

3.  Being A Control Freak Isn’t Healthy.  One thing that I have loved about certain entrepreneurs from Steve Jobs to Richard Branson is their ability to hire the right people, put things in motion and allow others to do their jobs.  Entrepreneurs are also innovators, motivators, coaches, and parents.  We have to be these things, plus so so much more.  But like a parent, we have to nurture our product and be prepared to eventually let it walk and take on the world.  Like a coach we need to do what it takes to impact others to push it over the goal line for a touchdown (or 3-pointer?  or goal?).  We can’t do everything and we can’t control everything.  Relinquishing control allows us to see what works and what does not work and how adjustments need to be made for our sake and the sake of our businesses.

What else would you add to the list?

Website: http://www.NOLA-Ice.com, http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com

Twitter: @NOLAICEBham @BonTempsBham

Facebook: ww.Facebook.com/NOLAIceBirmingham

DREAMS ARE MEANT TO BE SHARED

I keep reading these articles about NOT sharing your dreams – instead show them.  To me that’s crazy.  Dreams are meant to be shared.  But do so carefully.  It’s a commonly held belief that when you set a new goal for yourself – whether personally or professionally – one should not broadcast it to everyone you know.  In an age where social media rules, where people put too much of their business out there for the world to see – I can totally understand why one would want to keep their dreams, their goals, their ideas a secret.  Platforms like Facebook (statuses), Instagram and Twitter allow too many people to respond.  Too many responses equates to too many opinions.  Those opinions sometimes kill dreams because, essentially, people can be dream killers (or haters – depending on what word you like most). First and foremost, NEVER use Social Media as your dream announcement platform unless you have thick skin.  Honestly.  There are people out there that live to see you fail.  Trust me, I know this from experience.  Those individuals are your “friends” or “followers” online but in real life they are quietly plotting for your demise.  So in addition to dreams, just shut up when it comes to your personal life and your public life online.  Use those social media platforms instead for fun.  Don’t air your relationship issues, your work problems, your inner most thoughts and feelings on the internet where they are permanent…as in forever.  Instead, connect and reconnect with old and new friends. Watch and participate in commentary concerning #Empire, #Scandal, any dumb BET awards show, or what ever may be the hot topic of the day, week or hour.  Read the articles. Join in the discussions.  People post some awesome stuff on Facebook and Twitter.  But if you can’t take the heat when it comes to your personal life, just keep it to yourself.  Especially when it comes to your goals. So, who should you tell your dreams to?  Your circle.  I’ve blessed with this AWESOME group of friends – many of whom are more like family to me than my own flesh and blood.  When I want to do something, whether it’s to pursue a personal or professional goal, I say it out loud to them.  Most of the time they roll their eyes because my dreams are a little more crazy than most.  For instance, I wanted a franchise.  I bought and opened 3 Quiznos Subs (closed and sold them heauxs too).  I wanted a snoball – so I created NOLA Ice (www.NOLA-Ice.com).  I developed a “business bucket list” in which I’ve listed various professional pursuits that I wanted to pursue over the course of the next 5 years.  One of those was to open a gas station/convenience store. I bought one in December 2014 and we opened our doors February 19, 2015.  But with everything that I did I told my friends.  Not to brag. Not to be discouraged.  But because I knew if I didn’t say these ideas, these goals, these dreams out loud, I may never pursue them. Have I mentioned that my crew(s) is awesome?  If not, I just want to let you know that they are.  So in telling my dreams to them, they entail push me to accomplish them.  This what we do for each other actually.  Want to run for political office?  Cool come up with a plan and we’ll put it into action. Want a new job?  Figure out what you want to do and we’ll help and support in any way possible.  Want to jump out of a plane?  Call Kelli she’ll set up an entire weekend build around it and it will be epic…TRUST. One of my favorite books is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.  From it I learned this simple concept: Once you make the desires of your heart known, the universe will conspire to give it to you.  My universe is God and my crew.  With them all things are possible. With them I will accomplish all that I put effort towards achieving.  I’m not saying that everything is butterflies and roses because I do get asked the hard questions.  I do get the doubters.  But I also need this in order to work out, in my mind, what I am trying to do, trying to accomplish.  I need the difficult friends who see my goals as far fetched.  I need the people who help me work out numbers, and ideas to make sure this could actually work.  I need the people who won’t always pat me on my back and tell me I’m doing a good job, or what I am attempting to accomplish is realistic.  I need all sides. Don’t keep your dreams a secret.  Write them down, talk to others about them.  But be prepared for the good and the bad.  Pray about it.  Then make your decision.

Thoughts? Website: http://www.NOLA-Ice.com, http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com Twitter: @NOLAICEBham Facebook: ww.Facebook.com/NOLAIceBirmingham

GOT A SMALL BIZ? HOW TO MAKE IT STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

What makes you, your business – your brand – different from your competitors?  Why should customers buy more from you than your rivals?  What is it about your company that is distinctive?  Are you a Bently in a parking lot of Fords?  How can you stand out, grab the business of your rivals, and actually sustain said business?

STEP 1: ASSESS THE COMPETITION

First and foremost, it’s ok to be a spy.  After all, you can’t stand out from the crowd if you don’t know what their doing.  Even if you are unable to actually visit these businesses without raising suspicion, you can always send a friend and/or confident to do the dirty work for you.

For instance, our company is currently opening a new business for 2015 – entering a world that is unknown to us – but one that will allow us to make the necessary steps as we grow and expand in the future.  One of the underlining themes of Caulfield Holdings, Inc has always been – “Do the unexpected and ignore the doubters”.  So that’s what we are doing in 2015 – expanding in a way that’s unexpected in order to reach the goals for the long term.  So because this new venture is new to us, we’ve spent the last five months “spying” on the competition.  Honestly, we go in, take pictures, and make mental notes regarding what they are doing, what they are not doing, what we can implement into our overall plan, etc.  This has been huge as we work to develop this project.  You should see our “project wall” in our office – covered with random pictures collected over the last five months.  This act allows us to step out of the box to figure out how to create a better environment for our potential customers.

Through “spying” you are able to view your competitors marketing and branding techniques.  How are they promoting their brands?  What are they not doing?  How are they utilizing social media and how are they able to engage with customers through this marketing mechanism?

But do not obsess over what your competition is doing.  During the initial stages of development, before you open your doors, you should develop a plan using what you have learned during your “spying” days.  Once that plan is developed, don’t think about your competitors (as much) and instead focus on your company.

STEP 2: DEVELOP YOUR BRAND AND DETERMINE WHAT IT STANDS FOR

We’ve spent time talking about branding and development so review that if you need to (smile).  Once that brand is developed, determine what it stands for.  But remember, once you commit to your one thing, there is no going back.  You either stand for something or absolutely nothing at all.

If your competition is a large regional franchise with hundreds to thousands of stores, it’s safe to say that menu prices are not going to be a loose brick in which to attack them.  Large companies, with lots of stores and lots of money, have the ability to “crust” single-store operators when it comes to price.  Instead of focusing on your pricing module, identify the acceptable range those large competitors will allow you to be within them regarding the menu item prices, and continue to remain competitive.

Then pice one thing (one thing damnit) in which to distinguish your company’s brand.  Do not try to be everything to everyone.  Pick that one thing that is important to your customers and STAND for it.

A few examples of this include – buying local produce and products; cleanliness, customer service, hours of operation, community involvement, etc. Whatever you choose to be your “one thing” – in order to make a true impact – you need to dominate in order to crush the competition.  Your competitors should never come close to you in regards to your “thing”.

Over time your customers will see how you stand out, and will begin to recognize your company for what you do that is different from the rest.  It takes determination, patience and discipline.  Be creative, be different.  Strive to do what others won’t.  Hey, that’s what being an entrepreneur is all about, right?

Thoughts?

Website: http://www.NOLA-Ice.com, http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com

Twitter: @NOLAICEBham

Facebook: ww.Facebook.com/NOLAIceBirmingham

Establishing Brand Loyalty: How To Get Your Customers To Come Back

Loyal customers come back. Loyalists come back with friends.

-@petershankman #yallconnect 

 If you have yet to understand that loyalty pays (the bills especially) you are not an entrepreneur.  One of my companies, NOLA Ice (we specialize in Original New Orleans Snoballs – but in the mobile form – *shameless plug*) – would not be where it is today if it were not for the customers that took a chance on a “kid” sitting in a trailer selling cool summer treats.  It is those same customers that I see week after week 3 years later.  It is those same customers who bring their friends and introduce them to our product and our brand – thus providing us with new customers who will come back and will in turn bring friends of their own.  It is those customers that I consider brand loyalists or members of the NOLA Ice family.

A new analysis by SumAll, the New York-based analytics company, states that 25% to 40% of the total revenues of the most stable businesses in the SumAll network come from repeat business.  What’s more, these customers help businesses weather tough economic times. In a recent 12 month period SumAll found businesses with a 40% level of repeat customers generated 47% more revenue than similar businesses that only had 10% of their customers returning.

Great companies find a way to build a community of die hard, brand loyal customers.  The best thing any small business owner or entrepreneur can ever do is to study Steve Jobs and his empire – Apple, Inc.

The Apple Store is the most profitable retailer on Earth. Lets say that again just in case you didn’t understand me before – The Apple Store is the MOST PROFITABLE RETAILER ON EARTH.  It boasts the highest revenue per square foot of any retail store, averages more than 20,000 visitors a week and consistently earns accolades for its customer service.  Even in Birmingham, Alabama. (lol?)

Honestly, I want you to name one company (just one) with a more loyal, energized customer base.  Samsung along with Jay-Z is trying. Maybe Nike and their Jordan Brand (don’t even get me started on that one). But nothing encompasses what Apple has done over the course of its existence to build the customer base that it has created.

What is the secret of great brands such as Apple in building a loyal customer base?  Well, relationships is a HUGE factor.  Apple, Nordstrom, Zappos – these are three companies that get it.

These companies look at their profits differently than the other guys – they understand that the key to lasting success is long-term sales, not immediate transactions.

They know that getting their customers to come back is how they keep profits strong.

But it isn’t just about the money here…

Apple, Nordstrom, and Zappos are all actively putting their customers’ needs first – doing everything they can to provide real value with their products and services, and that is what builds relationships.

There are certain ways in which to achieve this.  For instance, you must provide EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE.

Part of building a loyal customer base, one that returns year after year and not only brings themselves but their friends is by providing them with extraordinary service from the jump.  The top companies go above and beyond to make sure that each and every customer has an experience that is both wonderful and memorable.

Secondly, the GROWTH FACTOR.

Here I always thing of these words once said by Zig Zigler:  “If you go looking for a friend, you’re going to find they’re scarce. If you go out to be a friend, you’ll find them everywhere.”

This is where the customer experience overrides all other facets of the biz.  Here, your number one goal is to provide customers with a greater advantage and get them closer to your desired outcome.  When businesses are interested in providing the customer with an experience and actually helping the customer (not just taking their money), the results are much more profitable in the long run.

This is, for instance, why I refuse to get frustrated when a customer asked me “What’s Good’ when staring at our extensive menu.  This one question provides me with the opportunity to not only brag on our flavors but to also brag on what sets us apart from other like-minded companies – OUR FLAVORS (and brand, and overall business model – but that’s for another blog post).  But by taking the time to engage the customer, and discuss something as simple as a menu allows you to be more personable to the customer, and makes them feel like they are getting more than just a NOLA Ice snoball but are having an actual experience.

The third key to getting customers to return is LISTENING TO YOUR CUSTOMER.  One of the first things I did when I first started NOLA Ice as to have a snoball tasting party. This allowed me to get feedback regarding the taste of the flavors and how the ice was shaved.  From this one function I knew what I needed to change in order to achieve a true “Original New Orleans Snoball”.  Three years later I am still listening and adjusting. One of the best things I could have done was to open up in New Orleans. This allowed me to be in the city when my product was first discovered, and to listen to customers that actually know what it should taste like – because they have grown up on these things. Three years later I am still adjusting my flavors and doing what I can to shave the ice as soft as snow so the syrup hits the ice just so right.

It’s about meeting the customer halfway – listening to what they want to achieve and doing everything in your power to produce that result. It’s about honestly evaluating negative feedback and using it to make the company better, and using positive feedback to expand what you’re doing right…

Customer loyalty makes the difference between consistent profit and struggling to get new people in the door.  For, when customers keep coming back of their own accord, making purchases, and telling their friends and family about the great experiences they have, the business benefits from consistent sales, a reduced need to chase leads, and best of all – free word-of-mouth advertising.

Point blank, if you value your customer, your customer will value you and your brand, and that, that my friends, is what loyalty is all about.

#BOOM

Thoughts?

Website: http://www.NOLA-Ice.com, http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com, http://www.TheNOLATruck.com

Twitter: @NOLAICEBham @TheNOLATruck @NOLAIceNOLA

Trayvon Martin v. The State of Florida and The United States As A Whole

First and foremost I want to say, never tell me this is a matter that should be handled by the Martin/Zimmerman families.  This is a situation that we as a nation must talk about, march about, write about, and continue to find a solution for or this will happen again.

Only in American can a dead black man go on trial for his own murder…

 Kendric McDade.

19 years old. College student.  Black male. In March 2012, McDade was shot and killed when officers responded to a report of an armed robbery of a man in Pasadena, Calif. He was later found to be unarmed, with only a cellphone in his pocket. His death has prompted his family to file a lawsuit, in which McDade’s parents argue that he was left on the street for a prolonged period of time without receiving first aid. According to court documents, McDade’s last words were, “Why did they shoot me?” The officers involved were initially placed on paid administrative leave but have since returned to duty.

Timothy Russell.

In December 2012, Russell and his unnamed passenger were killed in Cleveland after police fired 137 rounds into their car after a chase.  Officers claimed they saw a possible weapon but no weapon or shell casings were found in the fleeing vehicle or on the chase route.

Sean Bell.

November 25, 2006. The shooting of Mr. Bell, 23, who did not have a gun, occurred in the early morning as Mr. Bell and two friends were leaving a strip club in Jamaica, Queens, where they had been celebrating. The case drew widespread scrutiny of undercover police tactics. 50 shots were fired in just a matter of seconds leaving Bell dead. Dead the morning of his wedding.

  Trayvon Martin.

 On Saturday July 13, 2013 many in the Black community, and other communities as well, received a wake-up call. If you ask most Black Americans if they were surprised by the “Not Guilty” verdict George Zimmerman received for the shooting of an unarmed 17 year old boy who was just walking through the neighborhood trying to go home – we’d provide you with a resounding NO.  Which is sad, just so so sad.

One thing the verdict did was wake us up as a nation to what is really going on within our minority communities.  It’s allowed us to spark a conversation, educate each other, and put the oh so precious life of the Black male on the forefront.

If you didn’t know it before, we all should know it now – the life of a Black man means nothing in this nation. We live in a nation in which a Black man serves to years for killing dogs.  But a white man gets no jail time for killing a young black boy.  We live in a nation in which a man gets 18 months for shooting himself.  But a white man gets no jail time for killing a young black boy.

The Zimmerman trial, in many ways, was more than a murder trial.  It was centuries of American racism haunting us and post racial fantasies smacking us in the face.  The Zimmerman trial has told us so much. But it confirmed one thing, it’s Open Season on Black males in this nation.

There is so much I want to say here. So much I want to explain to my white friends about this life.  For many I am their eyes into Black America.  These are individuals that I have known for over 20 years. People I love. People that I cherish. People that I consider to be not just friends but family – and thank God for the every morning and every night.  But they don’t understand my life and in many ways never will.  And what they really don’t get is that my life is a complete opposite from say many of my friends and the majority of my family – especially my male friends, family and colleagues.  When I heard that verdict, I didn’t cry. I got mad. I was angry. Why? Because it affirmed what I already knew – the life of a Black man does not mean anything in this great nation we call America.

I’m angry because the prosecution did not do their job. They allowed Trayvon Martin to be put on trial. A seventeen year old, who was just trying to get home. Who was scared and being followed by a man bigger than him. Who had no weapon but was armed with a bottled tea and a pack of Skittles. A boy who’s life ended in the hands of a man.  A man who if he’d just stayed in the damn car we would not even be here.

I’m angry because Trayvon Martin is an example of racial profiling – something that occurs to almost every black male in this nation – and Trayvon Martin is a pure example of what happens when racial profiling goes wrong.

I’m still angry. I’m angry because we live in a nation that still undervalues our Black boys and men.  I’m angry because racism still exists and many are too blind to see it.  I’m angry because after 400+ years, we are not free and never will be.  I’m angry because, as Melissa Harris Perry stated, “I live in a nation that makes me wish away my sons”.

The hysteria that has erupted in our nation during the course of the past few weeks is not just over the death of a young Black American male, because hundreds are tragically killed to near silence every year – 94% of them by other African-American males. Nor is this outrage over a supposed race war with black men as the target – given that in incidents of interracial crime, the latter kill the former far more frequently. It’s the fact that justice was not served nor will it every be served when it comes to situations like this. It’s the fact that as a Black parent, instead of telling our kids to dream, we tell them to wake up, stay alert, and do what ever it takes to not seem suspicious.  It’s the fact that no matter what we as Black Americans accomplish, how well we do in school, our professional position, the size of our house or the type of car we drive – no matter what, in the eyes of some, we’ll just be a NIGGA.

So where do we go from here?  That I do not know. This case raises so many issues regarding race but it also puts the Stand Your Ground law and gun control back in the forefront.  These are two topics that this nation needs to continue to discuss, for discussion leads to action and action leads to situations like this one.  Talk, plan, protest, talk some more, mobilize even more, then create some sort of legislation so this does not occur ever again.

Make Your Mess Your Message

Make your mess your message…

These words were spoken by Robin Roberts as she received the Arthur Ashe Courage Awards at this years ESPYS.  Quietly, Roberts is a personal hero of mine, who has overcome battles with breast cancer and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), spoke with the eloquence and humility she’s shown since joining the staff of ESPN’s Sportscenter in 1990.  Her journey is one for all of us to study and her courage and determination is something we should all consider emulating.

Make your mess your message…

Last month I discovered that my Mom actually reads my blog.  Yes, this shocked me. Honestly I never assumed she’d ever click the link. She proceeded to tell me it was good, that she enjoyed my writing, but didn’t understand why so many of my blogs are so personal. I told her that I sometimes use this as a platform of my own self-therapy. To reiterate what I have learned as a person and a small business owner – to not only help others but myself. It’s my personal online therapy but if it helps someone else out…well then I’m happy.

Make your mess your message…

As an adult, as a professional, but especially as a small business owner we have the pressure of trying to appear that we have it all together. Show no worries, show no fear, and keep any and all struggles to ourselves. But this can also derail your path towards success.  Your story – your compelling story – is what drives you down that road to success in a Range instead of a Tercel.

Lets take Oprah Winfery for example.  Oprah was someone who was not supposed to “make it” based off her looks alone. African American female, overweight, not the most gorgeous Halle Berry-esque woman (and don’t tell me I’m lying because we all remember what Oprah looked like before she became OPRAH).  But, because she exposed herself, pulled back that veil, and allowed the world to see her everything – the world responded and she is where she is today.  She exposed her vulnerability and a nation of households and housewives took her in each and every afternoon.  And look at where she is now!

Make your mess your message…

I’ve said it time and time again in private, amongst friends and family, that this has been a tough year both personally and professionally. If you read the post before this one you’ll get a hint into my mind in 2013.  But I’ve also allowed my friends and family into my personal even more – exposing myself for them to know what is really going on.  This is something I generally do not do in that I am that person who always wants everyone to assume that everything is fine and to not worry about me.  Instead I’ve learned that my actions do the exact opposite and to stop responding to questions regarding how I’m doing with “I’m cool. I’m always cool”.

Make your mess your message… 

It may sound strange, weird or even crazy but the things you try to keep quiet about are the things that are critical to your success as an entrepreneur or a professional as a whole.  Your compelling story is a key to your success.  People love the “started from the bottom now I’m here” type stories (shout out to Wheelchair Jimmy).  Hell, people love a good struggle – though they don’t think you’re struggling – and how you fought hard, kicked ass and made it to where you are now.

Make your mess you message…

So what should you do now? Write a blog. Share your story in 500 characters or less. Share your journey. But write it out so that when you are talking to clients, or when someone comes across your site or blog they can learn more about who you are and become even more compelled to hire you because they see you as not only a professional but also as a human being – someone they can relate to and someone they don’t mind doing business with.

Thoughts?

#BOOM

website(s): http://www.NOLA-Ice.com and http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com and          www.TheNOLATruck.com

Twitter: @NOLAIce @NOLAIceNOLA @TheNOLATruck

Am I Enough?

AM I ENOUGH?  

Quietly, this is probably one question that I have asked myself constantly over the last few months.  This one question encompasses so much in my life right now.  For some it’s about self love.  For others it’s about self worth.  For me?  I still don’t know.  I’m not complete because I feel like something – someone – is missing.  July makes me feel that way sometimes.  It’s a month that encompasses my father’s birthday and the date of his death.  Although I mourn for him, I still don’t think that’s it.

AM I ENOUGH?

So I’m going to be honest here.   I’ve contemplated committing suicide.  Key word “contemplated”.  I’ve just been in a darker place lately than usual.  From dealing with family and personal issues, to work issues, 2013 has not been the best.  Every night I go to bed thanking God for allowing me to make it through the day, and every morning I thank God for waking me up and also ask for strength not to do anything stupid.   But what really helps?  Talking to my grandmother (my MaMa) and talking to God.  My MaMa is an amazing woman and when I think of what this would do to someone who I honestly don’t know how much longer I have to be with here on earth, and consider each and every day I am able to talk to her and think about her a true blessing I just know I can’t commit THE act.  Prayer also helps.  I pray to God several times, each and every day to help these thoughts just stop.  It’s crazy because I never thought that I would be in this position. To think about taking ones life is crazy.  With each and every prayer I just thank God for giving me this life, blessing me with two of the most amazing parents who I don’t deserve – and even more blessing me with such an awesome group of friends, individuals that I definitely do not deserve.

AM I ENOUGH?

2013 has been tough.  Dealing with some personal issues in regards to my awesome family.  Having to learn how to work with a new business partner and continuously feeling like you’re not clicking – at least not in the ways I do with my current partners or those from the past – but we are getting there, and he’s my homie.  Plus he’s held me down more than I could ever thank him for this year.  Then there’s launching a new business and it really not going the way you planned or envisioned.  Expanding a current business and feeling like you want to devote your all to your expansion but you also can’t give up control of the home base, and the list goes on…

People don’t understand what it truly means to be an entrepreneur.  It means being the developer and brand manager, the accountant and human resources, being the janitor and the overall boss.  I honestly would not give up any of it for anything in the world.  But I do pray that things turn in other facets of life (well NOLA Ice is doing awesome – in case you were wondering) SOON.

AM I ENOUGH?

The key is always to keep going.  I’ve had difficult years in the past and I never gave up.  Being an entrepreneur means being a hustler.  It means being on the road to one city for an event then getting back to another for more work.  It means waking up at 4am on a Saturday to prep then spending the entire day on the grind.  It means 7 days a week, non-stop, getting out there for lunch and evening functions.  It means never stopping the grind even 3 years later.  BUT I love it.  I always figured if I didn’t I would have done something else by now.  But my love for it keeps me going, keeps me grinding, and keeps me pushing.

AM I ENOUGH?

So many of us feel as if we have to earn our self-worth.  Whether it’s through popularity, the size of your house, the type of car you drive or earning a huge paycheck.  But in reality, it’s not about any of that – it’s just having the knowledge that you are fine just the way you are that is difficult to muster.  Don’t get me wrong – I love myself.  I personally think I am quite awesome.  But sometimes I get tired.  It’s not the type of tired that sleeping in on a Saturday, taking a “personal day” or a vacation will heal.  It’s just being tired of living.  That though honestly scares the shit out of me.

To be human is to deal with various psychological issues.  Dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, etc., are normal things we face as humans.  It’s not about being crazy or inadequate.  It’s about being human.  As Eckhart Tolle suggests in A New Earth, detach from ego and focus on your essence — the deeper being within — your true self — perhaps even your soul. Let go of the external and focus on how you really are inside. You are already perfect, lovable and enough just the way you are.

We all know those people who try to pump themselves up with more and more accomplishments, whether it be material possessions, multiple credentials behind their name, or compulsive participation in competitive sporting events.For some, enough is never enough and they keep chasing the external successes hoping that the internal feelings of self-acceptance will follow.

As for me?  I just want happiness.  As one great friend says, “What is being happy?”  I used to roll my eyes when he said this and call him an ass.  But lately I’ve been asking myself the same thing.  What is happy and how do I find it?

Until then I’ll keep crying, and I’ll keep praying.  It’s a day by day healing process that I hope comes to a positive end SOON (because this depression shit sucks and I’m tired of it!).

Protecting Your Brand: How Twitter Killed Paula Deen’s

Hangin Mr. Cooper.  In The Sheet of The Night.  Ida Beef Wellington.  Porch Monkey Bread.

Yea, this week Twitter killed Paula Deen’s brand and career.  Well actually her words and bullshit apology did – but trending topics like #PaulasBestDishes and #PaulaDeanShows have proven that hashtags are more powerful than almost anything right now (especially Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton).

From Kobe Bryant (Colorado, big ASS ring) to Tiger Woods (that infamous Thanksgiving 2009…) to Lance Armstrong (1 Ball!), celebrities are constantly killing their brands either through a single word, phrase, interview, or a simple night (or more than one night) of passion (a la infidelity).  You’d think that people in such great and blessed positions of power would hold their tongue knowing that in an age of social media and smart phones everything gets out but NOOOOOOO.

So, what lessons can we learn from Paula Deens brand demise?  First and formost, shut the hell up.  All we want you to do is cook and then attempt to copy your recipies and pass them off as our own at Sunday brunches, holiday gatherings, office potlucks or to impress that winter boo.  We don’t want to know your religious (ie Scientology a la Will Smith and Tom Cruise) or your racial beliefs.  We just want you to cook, play the game, act or sing. That’s it.  Ummmkay?

As we all know, celebrities are continuously under scrutiny from the media, their fans and the paps, etc., and it’s sometimes difficult to separate the idealized version of these people to the reality of their true lives.  As true fans, we want to see and want them to be heroes and these expectations in some ways shroud the reality of one’s true character.  In some cases, celebrities work hard to control their image and will go to great lengths to protect that.

Lets take Lance Armstrong for example. One Ball, as we call him, went to great lengths to protect his image, and when his true image came out for all to see, there was really nothing he could do to protect it.  Not even Oprah could help him salvage the “mistakes” he made.  Lance Armstrong fought tooth and nail to protect his personal brand and his “Livestrong” brand by controlling every aspect of each.  He went on the attack for anyone who would attempt to diminish these brands.  When the Sunday Times of London accused Lance Armstrong of using illegal performance enhancement drugs, rather than taking the humble approach, he went on the attack and sued the newspaper for libel.  Winning was so important to One Ball, that he cheated in the sport and was so self-centered, he couldn’t believe that anyone should try to tarnish that image.  He even stated in his interview with Oprah that in his mind “cheating” was just having a “competitive edge.”  He was able to justify his own actions, and went through deliberate actions to protect his secrets.

It’s crazy because I have so much respect for anyone that has endured what Armstrong went through in regards to his battle with cancer.  I supported the Livestrong brand by purchasing the yellow plastic wristbands like millions of others many years ago and cheering him on in every tournament.  But yea, he fucked up.

Paula Deen has been going thru it since last fall when it was discovered that she had Type 2 diabetes.  With recipes such as the Krispy Kreme Hamburger (the name alone makes my mouth water and sends my body into a diabetic shock all at the same time) and continuously advocating “finishing butter” (http://www.wtsp.com/news/health/article/320299/12/Paula-Deen-releases-line-of-finishing-butter) she became sick eating the food that not only made her millions and helped to launch her brand but also the same food that many told her would make her sick.  But even then, America loved her.

The question here is will Deen be able to bounce back from this social media outcry (albeit hilarious use of a hashtag) that led to The Food Network stating that they would not renew their contract after June 2013?  I honestly say don’t count her out.  Kobe’s still bouncing a basketball (well he was but the demise of the Lakers is a whole other blog post), Tiger is getting his swing back, and Armstrong, well yea about those Lakers…

I’ve said this time and time again, you are your brand.  Therefore, protect it like it’s your baby and don’t do anything stupid to tarnish it.  Point blank – just shut up and go to work.  And when things do go south – don’t do dumb apologies like this one http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu6Us7fpr00. Just be humble. Admit you’re wrong. And lets all move on with life.  By the way, what is up with the color of HER skin in that clip?

I still wonder if Oprah will get the rights to the first interview.  I’m sure she’s one of her favorite n….(sorry I had to)

#BOOM

Website(s): http://www.NOLA-Ice.com and http://www.CaulfieldHoldings.com

Dear Daddy: A Ten Year Perspective.

July 22, 2002.

I still remember coming home that afternoon to a house full of people. My Mom telling me to sit down and pretty much entertain while she was on the phone (later I would learn she was telling my Dad’s older sister about his passing at the time). Not really feeling like talking I told our guests that I was going upstairs to change because I had a date that evening and wanted to chill out a little beforehand. A little while later, coming out of my room I see her walking upstairs with two other people – which was strange because she never came upstairs, let alone with others. I remember the conversation – her asking me to sit next to her on my bed. Her saying “Your Dad died. He had a heart attack. He died instantly”.

Not even pausing to let the words sink in, not believing what I was hearing – I ran down the hall to my office and called my cousin Kandice who was in Sam’s with my Uncle Keith. I can still hear her breaking down in tears over the phone and me hanging up on her because I was still in shock and didn’t believe what I’d just been told. Then calling my sister Catrice, and all she could say was “Kelli I’m so sorry. Kelli I’m so sorry”. My response was simple, “I’m sorry too”. Her passing the phone to her husband and then Shannon. What they said to this day I can’t remember. My sense of shock at that moment was REAL.

Then hanging up because I still could not believe it and then, just a few seconds later, breaking down as my Mom stood outside the locked door begging for me to let her in and me just saying to myself in between the sobs, “I want my Daddy. I just want my Daddy”.

I still remember…

July 22, 2012.

Ten years later…

Today I’d wanted to write you a letter. I need to. I want you to know that just because you are not here with me, because I can’t see or feel you physically, because some days I may try to block some memory that pops into my head of you – that does not mean that I don’t love you and I don’t miss you more than you’ll ever know.

The feelings that I have – these emotions – they are a mixture of pain, loss, and confusion. But it is also love. Ten years have passed but it still feels so fresh, so new.

I still remember…

July 22, 2002 – July 22, 2012.

I used to think about what it would be like to loose a parent. Maybe it’s the “only child” in me – or maybe I’m just morbid like that. But trust, it’s a thought I dare not think about any longer.

At age 20 all I could think was that it was way to young for me to be burying a parent. At age 30 I am still thinking the same thing.

You’ve really missed a lot in the last 10 years. You didn’t get to see me walk across any stage since my high school graduation. You didn’t get to see me throw my law degree away (and I know you LOVED that). You were not there for the opening of my first, or second Quiznos. You missed the births of both Colin and Jayden. You’ve missed the good times and the bad. You missed my growth and evolution (still a daily thing) as I try to become the person, the woman, you and Mom dreamed of.

You won’t be there to walk me down the aisle. You’re not there to complain to Mom about me so she could fuss and you’ll still end up looking like the “good parent” (yea i figured out your trick at some point in college). You won’t be there to love, and spoil your grandchildren – and bribe them with candy like you would Little Winston. You won’t be there to say “Kelli-Kelli” EVER AGAIN…

For 10 years I’ve endured more than I’d expected. Loved. Lost. Achieved. Failed. I realize that had you lived, had you been here, my life would have been different. I don’t want to question God’s plan for us, for me – but at times I do. Mainly because I don’t understand it. I mean, how could he take you from me? My father. My Daddy.

At times I get angry. I still feel a since of guilt like – like I should have seen this coming. I should have pushed you to go to the doctor. I should have just forced you to go to the hospital. I should have taken you there myself. These emotions are real. Sometimes I wish it were me and not you. I wish I had just done more. I wish I had been a better child – gotten better grades, didn’t always try to push that envelope just so far at times. I wish I could have been the perfect child. I wish I had done more, had achieved more while you were here just so I knew you were proud of me. I wish I had told you I loved you one more time. I just wish you understood how much I love you. I wanted to tell you these things then and I want to tell them to you now.

I still remember…

July 22, 2012.

Ten years later…

I’m angry. I’m so so angry. Yes, I’m STILL angry. Hell I’m hurt.

I wish you had done more. I wish you had cared enough about me and everyone who loved you so much and had just gotten up and gone to the hospital when you started feeling bad.

I am so, so angry – with you and with me. We were just getting to know each other again. We were planning for the future – to take over the world in a since. You were going to teach me everything you knew about the law. I was going to follow in your footsteps and one day take over. Only you knew and understood the pain that you were in. Why didn’t you just go to the doctor? Why?

I still remember…

July 22, 2012.

Ten years later…

Because of you I am who I am to this day. Because of you I am stronger, I work harder than anyone I know, I strive to be the person you dreamed of me to become. Because of you I am where I am today. Because of you I dream big, work hard to achieve all goals, and love hard. Because of you I am Kelli E. Caulfield. For that I say thank you.

I know and understand that all things happen for a reason. That we are going through life based on God’s design and not our own. When times get tough, and my shoulders get heavy, and my chest starts to fill up, I still say the words that I started saying the day of your memorial service as I walked into the chapel “All things happen for a reason. I love you Dad”. There is a continuous hole in my heart that will never be filled until I see you again. There is an emptiness that I can never comprehend. But there is a blessing in knowing that Ernest Lee Caulfield, Esq was, is, my Dad. What you did for me while you were here – and what you are doing for me from up there – words can never express my gratitude. I just hope and pray that I am making you proud and if I’m not now – one day I will.

And maybe I’m being selfish when I say this but honestly I do not care. I love you. I miss you. I know that you and Papa are looking down on me each and every day. I know you’re always there for me to talk to – because I do. I just hope you’re not too mad with some of the decisions I have made and will continue to make – and directions I decide to take.

Today. Ten years later, I understand that “All things happen for a reason”. But all I really want is a hug from my Daddy and to hear you say “Kelli-Kelli. Be good” one last time.

I love you Daddy.