Shell Tain- Can You Afford Your Dreams?-September 18, 2008

The evening was chilly and damp but the weather outside did not deter members of the AHB from the evening's presentation or the delicious meal that awaited them.

Dinner hosts Dave and Silke provided a steaming repast designed to chase the chill from the evening. Guests helped themselves to steaming bowls of toothsome Goulash, Potato Leek Soup and a fruity Spinach Salad. Hot coffee and tea were served along with fresh from the oven brownies, a sweet accompaniment to the meetings presentation.

Guests and members introduced their home businesses while dessert was savored.The presenter, much anticipated and frequent guest speaker, Shell Tain was introduced as the meal wrapped up and chairs were pulled nearer.


Shell's insightful message was a timely motif for attendees'. Owner of $ensible Coaching, Shell 's message, Can You Afford Your Dreams? was delivered by a seasoned veteran observer of small business finances. Having been CFO for many businesses throughout her career, Shell offered insight into the emotional roller coaster ride that finances play.


Shell's observation included the concept: statements that include 'I can't afford...." are surefire conversation stoppers. The METAPHOR and emotionality attached to the symbolism of money is often a deterrent to moving forward subconsciously in life and career. Allowing money to be a key factor in significant decision making has the same effect: being a stopper in moving forward in both career and on a personal level.

Small business owners mindful of the emotional feelings attached to statements related to affordability can short-circuit the cycle of negativity associated with money and spending.

Recognizing the value of their work, self-worth and self-work can allow a small business owner the abilty to overcome their own financial impasses.

Continuing to assess the position money plays in the subconcious is a tactic which will allow the small business owner to overcome the negativity cycle. Drop the word 'afford' from your vocabulary and continue speaking with clients about the fears associated with money and it's metaphors.

Shell's insight and sound practices are available via telephone conference, in financial coaching sessions or in her email newsletter, The Money Knot.

The September session wrapped up with Guests sharing views of the presentation, visiting with one another and looking ahead to October's meeting.

The October meeting will be held on the third Thursday of the month at the SMILE Station, October 16th from 6-9 pm. Reservations for the meeting can be made at the AHB website.

October's meeting presenter will be Zoe Johnson, owner of USquared, A Personal Assistant Service. Zoe will be discussing utlizing internet resources as a low cost marketing tool. Looking forward to the topic, meeting new attendees and visiting with the current membership on October 16th, 2008.