Have you ever stepped back and watched team members respond to a decision?

It’s really an interesting dynamic to watch.

I just watched a group of mid-level managers react to a decision that their management team made - three months ago. There clearly is not commitment amongst this group (once again, these are mid-level managers).

If retaining talent is not high on your list of concerns in 2010, then it should be.

I have seen way too many executives and hiring managers think that with the down economy and high unemployment rate there’s no need to worry about employee retention. This line of thinking will lead you down a slippery slope, especially as the economy begins to recover.

I am engaged! It's true. I proposed on January 29th and my gal said yes.

Although we've been sharing the good news with essentially anyone who will listen (including people I've never met on my most recent back country ski hut trip), I've been anxious to tell you.

I was waiting to announce the news to a bunch of friends at a gathering at my house this last friday night. Each year I create a slideshow of friends' pics capturing the amazing moments of the past year. Friday night's included a few extras - of our engagement.

Just a final reminder that if you are interested in attending Ascend 2010, today is the last day to register!

We have 7 expert speakers and panelists that will be joining us throughout the day, and you'll literally walk away with a map to keep you focused on where you want to go in 2010.

I honestly can't tell you how excited I am about this year's goal setting seminar Ascend 2010. I updated the website (www.youryeartoascend.com) with a full layout of our guest speakers and panelists and an agenda for the day. AND, right now we are offering a Buy 1, Get 1 at 1/2 Price option. But hurry. Prices go up Friday at midnight.

I wish you and your loved ones a happy New Year! I am especially thankful for how you have have touched my life. May 2010 bring you health and happiness.

To your success.

Sal

I was reading the Wall Street Journal this morning and they had an interesting article about keeping resolutions. According to the article, only 19% of people who make them actually stick to their vows for two years. The article went on and talked about other discouraging statistics about New Year's resolutions.

Just a quick reminder that if you think you are going to attend our Ascend 2010 seminar, you can save some bucks by registering before this Friday (Dec 18th) at mid-night. And, when you get two others to register with you, the fourth is f-r-e-e!
This full-day seminar will be both practical and inspirational. This year we have a line-up of speakers and panelists who are experts in career development, personal finances, and health and fitness.

Ascend 2010 will help you:

It started for me about 10 years ago. It was subtle at first. Now it is intentional. I realized that my choices were shaping my life. They were creating my life.

I was living in Atlanta at the time. Playing golf on the weekends. I had just left the Army and was working my way up the corporate ladder.

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I am excited to launch Ascend 2010. This full day seminar will help people clarify the vision they have for their lives, start 2010 with a plan, and create their best year yet.

During the seminar, we'll have expert guest speakers on personal finances, health and nutrition, and career development.

Participants will walk away with: