tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84595806596774128902024-02-07T16:47:03.840-08:00Blanton Advisors Blog for Blanton Advisors, LLC with informative community, finance and business information.Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-18184447421682528542023-06-08T08:28:00.003-07:002023-06-08T08:28:56.310-07:00<p><a href="https://conta.cc/3P0fX9s" target="_blank">Blanton Advisors, LLC Quarterly Newsletter</a></p><p><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><br /></u></span><a href="https://conta.cc/3P0fX9s" target="_blank"></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdeS9dxrOeejTHSRLXWC6aBtHBFQq18K93EPZTLvi_Wre87CKaQepv-Z9NVXD7JNmIH1JQJ_HdbGLB7LVIdePN2xvUFGIiUm3EXOMPzEOFAWxsu51flc1KucBMed3G2b0s2sqfeeSOhz_agG_iy4UpcSkd2_pV9P6R-ryXQm20c7VEOsNvRQsUZ2eG/s1308/(white)%20Blanton_logo_CFOBusConsltSvsExper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="1308" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdeS9dxrOeejTHSRLXWC6aBtHBFQq18K93EPZTLvi_Wre87CKaQepv-Z9NVXD7JNmIH1JQJ_HdbGLB7LVIdePN2xvUFGIiUm3EXOMPzEOFAWxsu51flc1KucBMed3G2b0s2sqfeeSOhz_agG_iy4UpcSkd2_pV9P6R-ryXQm20c7VEOsNvRQsUZ2eG/s320/(white)%20Blanton_logo_CFOBusConsltSvsExper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-63143237057853435202023-01-16T09:47:00.003-08:002023-01-16T09:47:41.107-08:00Happy Martin Luther King, Jr Day!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7zsFt5FdbqpDvkRg7krFIjc56PUy5r0TRVe2fz2_EAtYPt_OcXBHPNYXQXT8hVgtUjWZkWrUhB_wZQIPTOV6N2iCwj5zexFULWYEXAXKOpGG3owH1VsUURX1vwMjqkKbRTw52jbsibtm76h0FqLk6x2OABEQdm5pSxPDveS83i3sOpQU0KYJWzbR/s275/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7zsFt5FdbqpDvkRg7krFIjc56PUy5r0TRVe2fz2_EAtYPt_OcXBHPNYXQXT8hVgtUjWZkWrUhB_wZQIPTOV6N2iCwj5zexFULWYEXAXKOpGG3owH1VsUURX1vwMjqkKbRTw52jbsibtm76h0FqLk6x2OABEQdm5pSxPDveS83i3sOpQU0KYJWzbR/w640-h426/download.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Today we remember the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. </span><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-12841873150130273722022-10-14T08:31:00.002-07:002022-10-14T08:31:29.074-07:005 Tips for your 2023 Business Plan - Written By Jeff Newkirk<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYo5Exr9POVRpFBzRf2827kvHQqsraNbFIENy6BQGwPY9TWbbHKjVwUxDffRZFxkkwrLerxZwt18F1IT4GmeMMEGsiOmqZw8Z__RaUxEClY_cS2RWIanW8ugbVgdZw1ThmoXVAl4w1aFAcwlTfzfKy4CC-bsg0IVMEW9r_axcfk2K06ASWAXxgj5s/s1880/Labor%20Day%20(6).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1880" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYo5Exr9POVRpFBzRf2827kvHQqsraNbFIENy6BQGwPY9TWbbHKjVwUxDffRZFxkkwrLerxZwt18F1IT4GmeMMEGsiOmqZw8Z__RaUxEClY_cS2RWIanW8ugbVgdZw1ThmoXVAl4w1aFAcwlTfzfKy4CC-bsg0IVMEW9r_axcfk2K06ASWAXxgj5s/w640-h288/Labor%20Day%20(6).png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">The world has been adjusting to the new normal since the
pandemic. We have pivoted. Businesses throughout the world are bouncing back
from the COVID-19 pandemic and governmental shutdowns.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As a business owner, how can you best prepare for life
beyond a pandemic? The answer is simple, but not necessarily easy to implement.
Your answer: Develop a business plan. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Follow these five steps to develop a plan that will help
your business to continue moving forward.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Step 1: Know Your Current State</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The first step to any good business plan is to fully
comprehend your current situation. This means to know your company’s financial
performance, sales success (or lack thereof), resource needs, and systems and
processes today. Know where you stand currently.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Using a SWOT analysis will help you evaluate all components.
Don’t complete this on your own. You’ll need help, especially from those in the
trenches.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Step 2: Develop One Year and Five-Year Goals</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Developing one year and five-year goals will set the tone
for the rest of your business plan. Take time and analyze where your business
is now, and then decide where you want to see your business in the long-term.
In other words, what is your vision? It is where you want your business to go
in terms of financial growth. In terms of Sales. In terms of employees and
other critical resources. Do you currently have the operational capacities and
efficiencies to help you achieve your vision?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It is always recommended that your goals be quantitative.
Tracking and measuring progress are the only ways to determine where you are on
your journey to meet your vision. Make sure you include scorecards so you can
easily track and report out successes.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Step 3: Strategy Development</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">You now know where you want to see the business in one year
and five-years. But how will you get there? Within each major component of the
business, address the needs. You need to know the resources requirements, the
sales and marketing efforts that will be needed, and the systems and processes
to build efficiencies that will enhance growth and improved financial
performance. And, speaking of financial performance, will it cost anything to
implement your plan? Make sure you know what that cost is, and that there
is a return on your investment.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Step 4: Communicate</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">People can’t read minds. Once you have developed goals and
have strategies lined up to help you achieve, then let people know. Your team
needs to be motivated and inspired to achieve. Your plan will not be fulfilled
by happenstance. Rather, you need to communicate all components of your plan
and allow for feedback. By allowing your team to provide feedback, you may
learn of knew and better ways to achieve. Point is, you need buy in. You need
people on your team who will produce. Communication will allow you to improve
production and achieve your goals and vision. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Step 5: Be Agile</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Having a plan in place is important. In fact, it is critical
to the long-term success of your business. But, like any good plan, it may need
some adjusting along the way. That means you need to be flexible. Market
conditions may change. Supplier costs may increase. New competitors may enter
the market. What will you do? Adjust. Make sure you have the ability, through
your team, to changes things as necessary. This will help you stay ahead and
continuously move your business forward.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Jeff Newkirk<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Blanton Advisors<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Associate CFO, Executive Coach<o:p></o:p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-67325003319053134882022-09-16T04:00:00.001-07:002022-09-16T04:00:00.180-07:00Do You Meet the 3 Requirements for People Skills? By Jeff Newkirk<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ql-TXwy0bEL79IWrgh4h29FX8inVu24JUKWS-wvqn-vxZxanRAbJMWIx8kJX-Oa5HMpm0v1rFIOYYgGE18GC2-uojB_b4o0yRdAsO9l3nDLXbCjWptosbFMpHMXMTxGRV19YOFljA6SDATowKwWO6-5RJR01mVd0vopBZmXd_9aiNMRLjpvyYhWQ/s1920/Blanton%20Advisors%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ql-TXwy0bEL79IWrgh4h29FX8inVu24JUKWS-wvqn-vxZxanRAbJMWIx8kJX-Oa5HMpm0v1rFIOYYgGE18GC2-uojB_b4o0yRdAsO9l3nDLXbCjWptosbFMpHMXMTxGRV19YOFljA6SDATowKwWO6-5RJR01mVd0vopBZmXd_9aiNMRLjpvyYhWQ/w640-h360/Blanton%20Advisors%20.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Did you know that September is International People Skills
Month? Having people skills can make the difference between a solid career
trajectory versus not so much. You may be curious as to what, exactly, denotes
people skills. According to businessdictionary.com people skills can be defined
as <i>a set of skills enabling a person to get along with others, to
communicate ideas effectively, and to achieve personal or business goals</i>.
Merriam-Webster defines people skills as <i>the ability to work with or
talk to other people in an effective or friendly way</i>.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Interesting that Merriam-Webster implies that goals are
achieved based on using the term “effective” in their definition. In both
definitions there are three components that are critical: (1) you play nice
with others; (2) you communicate well (which I assume is both written and
verbal); and (3) you get stuff done.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Let’s dissect each to be sure we are following this month’s
theme. First, playing nice with others seems simple and straightforward.
And, I would argue, it is simple if everyone in your environment is like
you. In other words, if you work with people just like you and surround
yourself with people just like you in your personal life, chances are you will
experience a friendly environment. However, what about working with someone who
you find challenging? Are you still willing to play nice? Throw in
a differentiating variable and there may be conflict.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Differences can create challenge, and that’s when the rubber
meets the road. When this occurs, we have a choice to make. Do we put our head
in the proverbial sand and wait for things to pass, or do we hold our head high
and address the differences facing us? It is sometimes difficult to “play nice”
and address differences at hand, right? Some would say yes, some no. I
believe one can always address differences and issues with grace and
professionalism. That’s a novel approach these days, but it can be done.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The second item in our definition of people skills is communication.
Communication is more than a two-way street. Communication is verbal and
non-verbal. Communication is good and bad. Communication is one-on-one, as well
as to a large audience. Get the point? Here’s the key… whether you
are communicating to a group, or individual, verbally or in an email, it is the
quality of the communication that determine the communication’s effectiveness.
And, quality will be based on the receptivity of the audience to which the
communication is directed. To effectively communicate one must know the
audience. Knowing the audience will dictate the best method of communication
(verbal or non-verbal), as well as the construction of word choice.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For example, I had an awesome boss early in my career.
He was one who people greatly admired. I met with him weekly to provide updates
and status reports. To me, that meant providing detailed accomplishments
and thoroughly written plans. To him, it meant having a conversation and
reviewing the week verbally. I did not realize his true opinion of my weekly
update until much later, but the truth was that he hated my detailed
reports. Did that make me a poor employee? Was I incompetent? Yes
and no. I was not incompetent, but I was not the greatest employee. Why?
Because I was not communicating to my audience. Fortunately for me, he was a
patient mentor. He provided me with some valuable lessons on
communication.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The third and final component of our people skills
definition is “get stuff done.” So, at this point we play nice, we communicate
well, and now we need to achieve results. I think this is the true test
of one’s people skills. Achieving results is not always easy, even when
we play nice and have excellent communication skills. I would suggest that one
will not achieve results without playing nice and communicating well. If
you cannot get along with others and/or you do not know how best to
communicate, chances are exceptionally good that you will not experience
success.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Let’s tie this all together. Can one be a good leader without
people skills? In other words, can one be a good leader without either
communicating well, playing nice or achieving? I would say no. John
Maxwell, leadership guru, defines leadership as the ability to influence
others. This makes perfect sense. One cannot be a good leader if they are void
of people skills, because their ability to influence would be
nonexistent. You cannot influence others unless you have good people
skills. And, you do not have good people skills unless you play nice, communicate
well, and get stuff done.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The next time you are in a difficult situation, think about
your own people skills. Challenge yourself to meet all three components of the
people skills definition. Easy to say, hard to do, but worth the effort!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Written by:</p><p class="MsoNormal">Jeff Newkirk - Blanton Advisors Associate CFO, Executive Coach</p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-72260556339028896802022-09-11T03:00:00.001-07:002022-09-11T03:00:00.158-07:00Never Forget!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qEckIgctp3mZkHcEuRnSFA4iFpDlEU57Q_SKQodshQNHGAu7ANC5wT7LlZe9XiEEw_AgsZbCw3e25_uzhcZZpEV1EC8iabasW0rm7YIq4W-1VFq1oWTiSUXjMugXa_1MVtgLiPNXTs3dx_HqaPSViyzJTI4vCoKD49bUtLuZd3vo6GqIvDGG30DU/s1200/Clipart-su1623bi_4c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="1200" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qEckIgctp3mZkHcEuRnSFA4iFpDlEU57Q_SKQodshQNHGAu7ANC5wT7LlZe9XiEEw_AgsZbCw3e25_uzhcZZpEV1EC8iabasW0rm7YIq4W-1VFq1oWTiSUXjMugXa_1MVtgLiPNXTs3dx_HqaPSViyzJTI4vCoKD49bUtLuZd3vo6GqIvDGG30DU/w640-h288/Clipart-su1623bi_4c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-49131279678941562162022-09-05T04:00:00.001-07:002022-09-05T04:00:00.175-07:00Happy Labor Day!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFSsOVwME_qn-ovjzpC5DrY5Cb3Ztx9NTK34RaJ7_5Sv2qRXNg9fCXj-RPpxwMOBiVK0tTGXs8-Er4O5dPoa4XWS1I8Rhp5CvL9c2cxqAeYMweAmSVWCjH6vvP-FQt9VGka65iRA3k07fuTKYJ5Ff4R0drCXwRSnj3O768uMePRXlwAM4JoLxKWA5/s1920/Labor%20Day.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFSsOVwME_qn-ovjzpC5DrY5Cb3Ztx9NTK34RaJ7_5Sv2qRXNg9fCXj-RPpxwMOBiVK0tTGXs8-Er4O5dPoa4XWS1I8Rhp5CvL9c2cxqAeYMweAmSVWCjH6vvP-FQt9VGka65iRA3k07fuTKYJ5Ff4R0drCXwRSnj3O768uMePRXlwAM4JoLxKWA5/w640-h360/Labor%20Day.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-9987528477938704682022-08-26T09:35:00.002-07:002022-08-26T09:35:25.095-07:005 Ways To Boost Remote Work Efficiency - By Jeff Newkirk<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3bmdsN13ELR01v6Yi0uzDRD9oE-KeLLjjJ412labQBcSupzapsqibpKbnkjgU1bkTvIy1tEsSN70TGgFAscByKSc39SUISu3_fU4xpGoKCAafVLLAOv6vZFb48tDfErjgkbgpqKav8kXWDZ4AEYiTtL5ghvjnHm4PSJ4axMXX89ybgFWE7WRfojn/s1283/Copy%20of%20Blanton%20Advisors%20Logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="1283" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3bmdsN13ELR01v6Yi0uzDRD9oE-KeLLjjJ412labQBcSupzapsqibpKbnkjgU1bkTvIy1tEsSN70TGgFAscByKSc39SUISu3_fU4xpGoKCAafVLLAOv6vZFb48tDfErjgkbgpqKav8kXWDZ4AEYiTtL5ghvjnHm4PSJ4axMXX89ybgFWE7WRfojn/w640-h422/Copy%20of%20Blanton%20Advisors%20Logo.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed millions of employees to
work from home. It’s now become the norm, and many businesses are still
adjusting to the remote work life and learning what does and does not work.
When you’re running your business remotely, there are some challenges we’ve
never had to deal with. Connecting with customers and employees through the
screen isn’t easy. However, making your business profitable through remote work
CAN work. Without intentional efforts from workers and management, remote
work—can leave staff feeling distracted, isolated, unmotivated, and stressed.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Here are 5 Ways To Boost Remote Work Efficiency. </b><o:p></o:p></p>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Look
for specific areas where you can do better. <o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">Every business can be better…all the time. Working from home
changes the culture of thinking proactively, so you have to ask yourself some
questions. <i>“Do we have all the resources we need to get the job done”,
“how can we improve our communication through a screen and using our phone”,
“what limits employees and customers by working remotely and what can we do to
address these issues?” </i>Don’t let these issues continue without taking
action. Address any concerns before they grow into roadblocks<i>.</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Significant areas of concern in remote workplaces and where
employees get most frustrated are technology, an area where productivity is
lost. For example, many employees say their aging equipment can hinder productivity
due to breakdowns, slow downloads, and workarounds. Make sure you and your
employees have the best equipment you can afford. This will help productivity
and satisfaction with your team.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">2. Communication is key. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Communication is critical when working in any environment,
but even more now when working remotely. You must practice as much transparency
as you possibly can. If your employee doesn’t have all the information they
need, they cannot reach their full potential. Managers must overcommunicate in
order to move more productively. Managers must encourage their team and assure
them that they can express their voice and ask questions if necessary. Ensure
your employees feel comfortable asking questions and giving feedback to
complete the work efficiently and effectively. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">You should also be clear with the goals and rewards they can
gain from their performance. This helps build more morale which we know results
in better performance. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A weekly touch point is recommended just to remain in
alignment. It is very easy to lose touch, and when that happens there is a
greater potential for miscommunication. Employees can lose focus and missing
priorities. Stay communicated. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">3. Use meeting time wisely. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sometimes it feels like you’re in meetings all day long when
working remotely. But remember, the more time employees spend in these
meetings, the less time they have to complete tasks. That’s why it’s crucial to
use meeting time wisely.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Meeting time has increased significantly since the pandemic.
But that actually is ineffective when trying to collaborate at our best. When
making a one-on-one or group call, try making them micro meetings of 15 minutes
for those less complex tasks. Short meetings dedicated to discussing one or two
issues can maintain productivity and increase efficiency.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">4. Promote a proper workspace environment. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Remote workers should have a designated area of the home to
work where they can concentrate and minimize distractions. Encourage employees
to have a separate workspace so they can separate home and work life because
sometimes they can combine into one, and work is no longer the number one
priority. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">5. Set priorities and stick to them. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Because demand for workers is competitive, it’s vital for
leaders to step in and help prioritize. Things change quickly for reasons that
may be out of people’s control. Daily checks and expectations are the priority,
saving everyone from frustrations and guiding them in the right direction. You
will see immediate results by creating a defined schedule and sticking to
it. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Jeff Newkirk - Blanton Advisors Associate CFO, Executive Coach</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-78045633806471395282022-08-12T11:01:00.000-07:002022-08-12T11:01:33.821-07:00Everyone is Talking About Inflation, But Does that Really Impact Me? By Jeff Newkirk, Blanton Advisors Associate CFO & Executive Coach<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1bFOmQr9Z3gW1bITyp_aVR1wmqFYY3LJCPhT_K4Yer9rHVg62dSvCtrFFsq1mn9Y5tW5gxTka6OanObLFfMeGi-0DTajBpNZA6D9RQgtpN043t8mqny4Sh0We_J1WZnlmIFqmMq9iFsUxXiP9QJDOPp4TjKKzj5445foss7GMCNS1lX_5syASSsk/s841/Untitled-design-841x476.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="841" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1bFOmQr9Z3gW1bITyp_aVR1wmqFYY3LJCPhT_K4Yer9rHVg62dSvCtrFFsq1mn9Y5tW5gxTka6OanObLFfMeGi-0DTajBpNZA6D9RQgtpN043t8mqny4Sh0We_J1WZnlmIFqmMq9iFsUxXiP9QJDOPp4TjKKzj5445foss7GMCNS1lX_5syASSsk/w640-h362/Untitled-design-841x476.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .25in;"></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">We all dislike
inflation, but we have to deal with it. If you’re like me, you think inflation
sucks. The current inflation rate is about 7.9%. Now you might say that’s huge.
We haven’t had that inflation in years. Well, yeah, 40 years, but it’s not that
we have never had that level of inflation. In fact, just after World War II,
back in the mid-1940s, we had inflation rates of around 15%. This is pretty
high, almost double what we have now. And again, it impacts all of us. It’s
real, we need to adjust and plan for it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">There are two
levels, first business and then personal. On a business level, if you’re a
business owner or a decision-maker, <b><i>is inflation impacting your
business?</i></b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">If the average
inflation rate is 8%, how will you maintain the same level of profitability
when your expenses are increasing at least 8%?<b><i> You have three
options. </i></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">1. Increase Price </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">If you increase
the price, you must know that the market can bear that price increase. So you
could increase the price, and your sales volume could go down. If you’re going
to increase the price, you have to know that your sales volume will stay the
same. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">2. Increase
Volume </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">If you can sell
more at the same price, you’ll have more revenue, and you’ll be able to
compensate for some of those increased expenses. But for that to happen, you probably
have to take on, at least implement, a good marketing sales and marketing plan
or some kind of new promotion. If you grow your expenses to some extent,
that’ll help you increase volume At least with that you can maintain
sustainable profitability.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">3. Decrease
Expenses </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">If you can’t
increase the price and you can’t plan for an increased sales volume, then you
can begin decreasing expenses in other areas. If your costs increase 8%, there
is no change in anything you’ve purchased, but prices rise 8%. You can decrease
expenses in an area to compensate. For example, if you bought $1,000 of
supplies, now that $1,000 of supplies will cost more like $1,100, rounding off
to a 10% increase. You’ve got to find that a $100 somewhere to save. It might
be in another supply, or it might be in some other administrative expense.
Whatever it is, you’ve got to be able to reduce expenses in another area.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Unfortunately,
many times businesses will hit labor. That means that people will get laid off
and lose their jobs because companies can’t afford the same amount of labor
costs because costs in other areas are going up. They can’t compensate for that
from the revenue side, increase in price, or increase in sales volume.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Does
inflation impact business?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Yes, it does,
and you need to create a plan. It’s crucial now to plan ahead. Inflation is
likely to rise even more. That means that we have to plan for either increasing
price, knowing that our goods or services that we’re selling can bear that
increased price.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">We have to increase
volume and sell more or decrease expenses. And the problem with decreasing
expenses is you have to find the area where you can find the expense to
decrease. In other words, if there are supplies in one place, they will cost
more. You might have to reduce supply costs in another area. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">I encourage
looking at price, increasing sales volume, and decreasing expenses in every
area, except for labor. Keep those people employed. Your employees are the
lifeline of your business. They are what make your business thrive. They’re
what make your business successful. Don’t touch labor. Richard Branson said it
best employees are the most essential component of your business. It all starts
with employees. Be sure to care for those employees and address inflation in other
areas. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Your customers
come next, then your shareholders or stakeholders. But if your employees aren’t
happy, your customers aren’t satisfied. If your customers aren’t happy, you’re
not growing your business. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">How does
inflation impact you personally and your family?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">With an 8%
inflation rate, this will impact your household expenses. Your household
expenses will go up an average of $300-500 a month. So let’s be conservative
and say 300, that’s $3,600 a year. If you have the average or median income
that we experience in the United States (which is around 70,000 a year), you
make $70,000 a year, and inflation is going up to $3,600 a year; that’s over 5%
of your total revenue or your total pay.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">If you can save
regularly 5-10% of your income, you’re making $70,000. That’s 7,000 that you’re
put into savings. Now $3,600 of that will increase costs towards filling your
gas tank, groceries, clothing, whatever it may be, it will go up by 8- 10% by
the end of this year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">If you had a
vacation plan that would have cost you about $3,600. Now that $3,600 is not
going to be put towards keeping your household consistent, meaning you’re not
taking on any new expenses. You’re not increasing any expenses into your home.
You’re just staying. Everything you purchased before is the same as last year.
And this year, it’s just going to cost you $3,600 more. So you won’t be able to
take that vacation, or you’ll have to be able to compensate for it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">You have to
save even more. If it costs you $50,000 to run your household, like mortgage
insurance, groceries, clothing, and education, it’s all now $3,600 more. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Does
inflation impact you?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Yes, it does.
And you need to plan for it. Start doing everything you can to decrease your
expenses in your household. Try reducing costs by doing the following:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Look for more favorable insurance
rates <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Switch grocery stores to find
lower-priced items <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Limit your spending habits on
clothes and accessories <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Overall, be a
bit more prudent and try to impact your household as minimal as possible. Maybe
you will have to wait to get that new car or wait a little longer to take that
vacation. Whatever it may be, know that inflation is real and won’t be going
away any time soon. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Remember, it
won’t last forever, and things will get better, but in the meantime, let’s plan
accordingly so we can make it through the next year or two. <o:p></o:p></span></p><br /><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-84572392641407400992022-07-27T08:25:00.006-07:002022-07-27T08:25:55.968-07:00What Are the Most Important Financial Measures - By Jeff Newkirk, Blanton Advisors Associate CFO & Executive Coach<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBYe1I17qMNRSJ-d-8fTicB4MD-LPm0ZW7GH_lshaIMC9KQsjtitaK7S31A1GDy4STD7fiygPc4SIFKkXXEiE7xiJh9uNPVcKzVtYHtGx1JqGSbqP_HTDYmrZfrIDgQgcN9_S_ph_5RMREtFS8NnUXu2CNhOaI-wbNmC8OgOF3i6d38292bMheQa1/s317/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="317" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBYe1I17qMNRSJ-d-8fTicB4MD-LPm0ZW7GH_lshaIMC9KQsjtitaK7S31A1GDy4STD7fiygPc4SIFKkXXEiE7xiJh9uNPVcKzVtYHtGx1JqGSbqP_HTDYmrZfrIDgQgcN9_S_ph_5RMREtFS8NnUXu2CNhOaI-wbNmC8OgOF3i6d38292bMheQa1/w565-h284/images.jpg" width="565" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">As a business consultant, I’m often asked, “<i>what are the
most important financial metrics that, as a business owner or decision-maker in
a business, you can pay attention to?” </i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are several key financial measures that provide
insight to the financial health of your business. I believe reviewing any
financial measures is helpful. However, there are three that truly give you a good
indication of current performance.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#1: Gross Revenues<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Gross revenues measure the total amount of dollars
recognized during a financial period from providing services or selling goods.
It is important to note that revenues are only recognized when they are earned.
A business can’t include any revenues recognized from a good or service that
have not yet been earned. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For example, ABC Manufacturing sells 10 wingdings for $150
each. While there are 15 wingdings available for purchase, only 10 were
actually sold during the period. Revenues for this financial period are (10
wingdings x $150) $1500. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#2: Gross Profit<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Referencing the example above, each wingding requires
materials and labor to produce. For ABC Manufacturing, each wingding costs them
a total of $105. These costs are typically referred to as Cost of Goods Sold.
In this example, Cost of Goods Sold is comprised of $75 worth of materials and
$30 of labor to put the wingding together. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Why is this important? Remember that each wingding sells at
$150. With a total cost per wingding of $105 that allows for a gross profit of
$45 (Gross Revenues less Cost of Goods Sold). Put simply, for each $1 of
wingdings sold, ABC Manufacturing realizes a Gross Profit of $.30 ($150 less
$105 = $45, $45/$150 = 30%).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Keep in mind that ABC Manufacturing incurs expenses for
running the business in addition to the direct costs associated with producing
wingdings. Expenses such as rent, utilities, office supplies, administrative
labor, advertising, and insurance are all examples of Selling, General and
Administrative Expenses. There must be enough Gross Profit remaining to cover
all Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In this example, Gross Profit for each wingding is $45. In
this period, ABC Manufacturing sold 10 wingdings, which realized sales of
$1500, with associated Gross Profit of $450. Therefore, Selling, General and
Administrative Expenses must be less than $450 for ABC Manufacturing to realize
a positive Net Income for this period. Business owners need to know Gross
Profit, so they know the primary efforts of their business will result in a
positive financial outcome.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#3: Cash Balance <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cash is critical. Without cash, a business owner is unable
to pay invoices. Without cash, a business owner is unable to pay employees. In
summary, without cash, a business cannot survive.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To increase cash balance, a business owner can increase
sales. Increasing sales alone is not necessarily the answer though. If 100% of
sales are on credit, then cash does not change, but accounts receivables
increase. To combat this, invoice faster and reduce the payment terms. In other
words, make it financially attractive for customers to pay you in cash and to
pay off their outstanding balance.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Decreasing expenses is another obvious solution. Spend less,
keep more. Evaluate your expenses and determine those that are business
critical (cannot provide business without the expense), business necessary (at
some point will be needed to sustain business operations), and business
optional (a luxury items that can be eliminated).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Thirdly, how much cash do you really need? Prior to 2020, we
would typically advise clients to maintain three months cash to cover expenses.
However, that changed with the pandemic. Post-pandemic we suggest six to nine
months.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Finally, remember that profitability does not equal cash. A
business can be profitable, but with a terrible cash balance. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">~ Jeff Newkirk</p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-28602115686556595092022-07-08T09:13:00.004-07:002022-07-08T09:13:47.850-07:00Is Emotional Intelligence Really Important?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8S-Vblwxeo1_yCClynR3aSAtI0dMOiLywgelB2jIcj0VqhPzA4wGlf3aOzStQ_BQgXPSLJ8iW5k63cCyMAn0LRlBOlFeD8Ot7OiVwT3gt79ucB9J1Gy6u3Qm5p4WRmdyfgAXt95l9vZD1O-IDYTPSHKIQ0qliGrFshg_6Y0yBsxjYCU8iSrUMxbg/s1056/62a9563e-6b9b-4c5c-9ff3-eac57073c288.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="860" data-original-width="1056" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8S-Vblwxeo1_yCClynR3aSAtI0dMOiLywgelB2jIcj0VqhPzA4wGlf3aOzStQ_BQgXPSLJ8iW5k63cCyMAn0LRlBOlFeD8Ot7OiVwT3gt79ucB9J1Gy6u3Qm5p4WRmdyfgAXt95l9vZD1O-IDYTPSHKIQ0qliGrFshg_6Y0yBsxjYCU8iSrUMxbg/w640-h522/62a9563e-6b9b-4c5c-9ff3-eac57073c288.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">What is emotional intelligence? The term was first used in
1990 by Peter Salovey and John Mayer, American psychology professors. Emotional
intelligence (“EI”) refers to the ability to identify and manage one’s own
emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Have there ever been times in the
workplace when you simply wanted to lash out or scream ? Of course there have,
many times if you’re like me. However, it is how we channel that energy that
makes the difference.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">According to <i>Psychology Today</i>, EI is said to
have three skills: (1) emotional awareness; (2) the ability to use your
emotions in a productive manner – such as problem solving; and (3) the ability
to manage emotions – such as regulating your emotions and helping others to do
the same.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Back in the late 1990’s I watched an interview with Bill
Romanowski, former NFL linebacker. I heard him say something that has stuck
with me since. He said “emotion high, logic low.” If you are extremely
emotional about something, are you able to logically process information
associated with that particular situation? No, you are not. Conversely, if your
emotions are low, your ability to process information and make productive
decisions increase significantly. I think Mr. Romanowski was on to something
very profound.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Is EI important? Yes. Why? Because when we have high
emotional intelligence we are able to communicate more productively and make
better decisions. That leads to a more productive workplace, better
relationships, and a happier life!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As always, thanks for reading!<o:p></o:p></p>- Jeff Newkirk - Blanton Advisors Associate CFO, Executive Coach<p></p><p><br /></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-6739376119781658392022-07-04T04:00:00.001-07:002022-07-04T04:00:00.184-07:00Happy 4th of July!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJMC-dxV5PVhlR7qET6yNMZM8nBqKDl7iBAyIpKU_2XyYUnB1oQzJZWNhIa1IQz4kx5G99rLrXd7ULEBQZzAdhfvpJwOvTdQg-caSrNPtIPDnShfvkrSd2qS4nL8-37MLsJtKl7RE5CrSdnD-tVdfS4P33FNsrZuFGXL3tzabyRKtwU47Lkr-LDshT/s700/independence-day-4th-of-july.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="700" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJMC-dxV5PVhlR7qET6yNMZM8nBqKDl7iBAyIpKU_2XyYUnB1oQzJZWNhIa1IQz4kx5G99rLrXd7ULEBQZzAdhfvpJwOvTdQg-caSrNPtIPDnShfvkrSd2qS4nL8-37MLsJtKl7RE5CrSdnD-tVdfS4P33FNsrZuFGXL3tzabyRKtwU47Lkr-LDshT/w640-h356/independence-day-4th-of-july.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Happy
Birthday USA! Have a great 4<sup>th</sup>
of July holiday and may God bless America!</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-8020267364926897892022-06-10T08:32:00.003-07:002022-06-10T08:32:38.803-07:00Did you know that Cash Flow is the reason over 80% of all small businesses fail?<p> </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmjQSNxAepDmA9xFlfLsB8GHWEXqa6V-06dgYz2gXQ_YSkXCzzH38dXmMx2X0ePZv2yHOEN6QcFgzB8jmp296XwjBhbdSgnbGQt3ilCOdV2oiBKht_LHTo-Q5xdF7zkq0tDdQCg4wbW87hPLulBYti0o8wqpNk4BvBckvxUab8XSUqej1bdrvCQ5X/s763/Publication1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="763" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmjQSNxAepDmA9xFlfLsB8GHWEXqa6V-06dgYz2gXQ_YSkXCzzH38dXmMx2X0ePZv2yHOEN6QcFgzB8jmp296XwjBhbdSgnbGQt3ilCOdV2oiBKht_LHTo-Q5xdF7zkq0tDdQCg4wbW87hPLulBYti0o8wqpNk4BvBckvxUab8XSUqej1bdrvCQ5X/w640-h338/Publication1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal">U.S. Bank conducted a study in 2019 that concluded that 82%
of all small businesses fail because of poor cash flow management or a lack of
cash flow understanding. Do you know how much cash you need to operate should
all your sales evaporate? Do you know how to determine that amount of needed
cash?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Important questions that need to be addressed. You need to
know your liquidity position, or your current cash balance AND you need to know
how much you need if you didn’t sell one product or service for at least 3
months.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cash is more important today than ever. Build your cash
reserves – the message for today!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Jeff Newkirk</b> <b>– Blanton Advisors Associate CFO, Executive
Coach</b><o:p></o:p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-50628254635716133232022-05-13T08:34:00.004-07:002022-05-13T08:34:34.604-07:00EVERYTHING BEGINS WITH YOU!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fe-eJ7ArISSA20Xmcz-eU01ct6FJV3OvUZvxAQAiF-FpzHYVTlW2-dEzADMDbsemRUjjBxNrljP2rd28INLMDq76FL3BTy9KBYjGGnb_T10tvADL8_z_5-bUQcQMgTdkzV9JVdTXTS7HxDZEkSE0HW1cNFpCt1a2Z_xkYQV3t3HeK7xpn5sr0yih/s407/5840ef_e865cfebac984afea6d1993d1fb813aamv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="407" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Fe-eJ7ArISSA20Xmcz-eU01ct6FJV3OvUZvxAQAiF-FpzHYVTlW2-dEzADMDbsemRUjjBxNrljP2rd28INLMDq76FL3BTy9KBYjGGnb_T10tvADL8_z_5-bUQcQMgTdkzV9JVdTXTS7HxDZEkSE0HW1cNFpCt1a2Z_xkYQV3t3HeK7xpn5sr0yih/w400-h293/5840ef_e865cfebac984afea6d1993d1fb813aamv2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Zig Ziglar said, “You cannot consistently perform in a
manner which is inconsistent with the way you see yourself.” Makes perfect
sense, doesn’t it? If we want to change the outcome, then we need to change the
process of achieving that outcome. Simple? Maybe. The important point to
remember is that the process begins with us. We all need to accept the fact
that any movement forward will require a mindset shift. Whatever that mindset
may be. We initiate the change because we want to move the situation (any
situation) forward. Think about it for a second. Are you aware of any progress
made, personal growth achieved, or business success realized without someone
initiating a mindset shift? So, if you want something to change, then change
the way you are thinking. Have your thoughts align with the outcome you seek to
achieve. Go forth and seek change!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Written By: Jeff Newkirk, Blanton Advisors Associate CFO & Business Coach</span></p><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-24701889142848793882022-04-29T13:31:00.000-07:002022-04-29T13:31:36.113-07:00Financial Literacy Month - By Jeff Newkirk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXmLRF-hFi4viip2vHXMP7yukcIxfrj4Ke1IHsn9jay1-lWum4nrtUo4sMOEQo4NcLsBrrrq57FHgrg5wA4KuwGaiJJo19C2KGgE4IlmY4pdKovw-ynX7kJjsmk9wCXWZXKpVpufaTMDfk-dhPS-AdfIG3HHYTqANXDZN2It3KHgG4BYfdCCVsgNB/s318/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="158" data-original-width="318" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXmLRF-hFi4viip2vHXMP7yukcIxfrj4Ke1IHsn9jay1-lWum4nrtUo4sMOEQo4NcLsBrrrq57FHgrg5wA4KuwGaiJJo19C2KGgE4IlmY4pdKovw-ynX7kJjsmk9wCXWZXKpVpufaTMDfk-dhPS-AdfIG3HHYTqANXDZN2It3KHgG4BYfdCCVsgNB/w400-h199/download.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>April is National Financial Literacy Month.</b> This
is a great time to evaluate your financial situation and what you can improve
on. If you are not good at maintaining a budget, you’re not alone. It’s time to
reflect on your earnings and plan your long and short-term financial
goals. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To establish a budget and financial plan or even take a more
active role in managing your investment, seek expert advice. When it does come
time to review, it may be overwhelming<b>. </b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Here are 8 tips to help you with
financial planning this month. </b><o:p></o:p></p><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in; text-align: left;" type="1"><li><b>Commit
to Changing Your Ways Financially </b></li>
</ol>
<p class="MsoNormal">It’s crucial to develop the right financial plan for you and
examine what needs to change with your finances. Are you ready to start
changing your financial situation? Do you think you can change the way you make
financial decisions? Identify how you can benefit from changing the way you
manage your money and begin the process of better handling your money. <o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><b>Review
Your Finances </b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Review what you have on your plate financially right now.
Look at where your strengths are and where you can make improvements. This is
an opportunity to be honest about your finances and your relationship with
money. Write down and collect your feelings and findings. Organize your
financial records while collecting data. You can organize your financial
information accordingly on an updated spreadsheet or document. <o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Make
your money Count </b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">To develop the amount of money you wish to gain and maintain
in the future, you need to look back. Evaluate your income and sources, and
then set how much you want to earn in the future. <b>That’s why identifying
ways to reduce spending now is so essential.</b> Create a balanced budget
that corresponds with your income and expenses. That way, you find ways to
spend less. If spending less is a challenge in your current situation, try
starting in small ways. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Try saving money by cooking meals at home, limiting your
shopping habits, or even making your own coffee at home instead of going to
your local cafe. These are all small things toward limiting your expenses each
month. Only splurge when you really need to. This way, you can build the habit
of spending within your means and start putting more money away in your
savings.<o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Identify
a Starting Point </b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A starting point means calculating your net worth and
comparing what you owe (liabilities) and what you own in assets. Knowing where
your money goes each day, week, and month is the foundation of financial
planning. <o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Review
your debt</b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">When it comes to finances, debt weighs heavy on most
Americans. Whether it’s school debt, medical, or personal debt, it’s important
to take control of these debts. Take an honest look at all your debts and
calculate how much you owe. This will help you evaluate your overall financial
state. <o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Establish
Your Priorities </b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Create a list of your wants and needs. When you have a
complex financial situation, building a plan that accounts for everything can
be challenging. Dig into the details first, documenting income, expenses, and
assets before making the plan.<o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Set
Financial Goals </b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Set a specific goal, and determine what you want to change.
Make sure whatever this goal is that it’s attainable and trackable. That way,
you can check on milestones as you go. Commit to a goal that will remind you of
your financial goals. This way, you are securing your financial future and
becoming more prepared. <o:p></o:p></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Seek
Financial Consulting</b></p></blockquote><p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sometimes you can’t do it all on your own. There are
professionals who can help you develop a foundation for your financial plan
based on whatever specific goal you may have. Advisors can map out the overall
financial status, including assets, income, and expenses, develop methods and
work on those expectations and goals. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><br /><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-80758557753561195852022-03-25T11:20:00.000-07:002022-03-25T11:20:18.843-07:00Perseverance<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInXpzYnM62cg-rswZmS-NzYDJ3fH6C1fZrxCvSQ7rlFU45_p3fna787odrSlYuSCJ8XdNhfv_FI6qIfBgkylZIirbFdW1_cXrlTKJhj54MEcDgguai9nsP_qlGxfmhke7LYJbukQrLQS2kUQiXCN2X64_A2RhiYBdAcS_jWSRnEnK__jan5M3Sh5M/s407/Perseverance.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="407" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInXpzYnM62cg-rswZmS-NzYDJ3fH6C1fZrxCvSQ7rlFU45_p3fna787odrSlYuSCJ8XdNhfv_FI6qIfBgkylZIirbFdW1_cXrlTKJhj54MEcDgguai9nsP_qlGxfmhke7LYJbukQrLQS2kUQiXCN2X64_A2RhiYBdAcS_jWSRnEnK__jan5M3Sh5M/w400-h293/Perseverance.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The word “perseverance” has never had so much meaning.
Merriam defines perseverance as a steady persistence in a course of action, a
purpose, a state, etc. especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or
discouragement. Yes, I think this is the perfect term for our current state.
But in the face of all that is going on, how do we persevere? I suggest three
basic steps, and they are…</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>1. Routine. To the greatest extent possible, and I know this
is very challenging, but attempt to keep your routine. If you awake every day
at 530 am, then keep doing so. If you typically work from 800 am to 500 pm,
continue doing so, albeit from home. This will be tough but try to keep some
consistency in your life. Don’t watch the news more or read the news more than
you typically do. Believe me, you will learn about what is going on without any
extra effort on your part.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>2. Grateful. These are tough times, but we always have
reason to be grateful. Grateful that you woke up this morning. Grateful that
you have a roof over your head. Grateful that you have people that love you.
Grateful that you can help others in need. Grateful that you can sleep in a bed
tonight. Grateful that our world is working together to combat this terrible
virus. See, we have things to be grateful for… so be grateful.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>3. Love. It seems that when tragedy occurs, all the hate and
disparaging comments you hear, subside, at least somewhat. Why should it take a
tragedy to make this happen? There is much too much hate in this world. Love
what you have. Love others. Love your world. Love yourself.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>We will make it through. Didn’t someone say, “love makes the
world go ’round?” I think that was a song. A good song.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Be safe and stay healthy!</p><p class="MsoNormal">- By Jeff Newkirk, Associate CFO - Blanton Advisors, LLC</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-39559504034287900332022-03-17T04:00:00.002-07:002022-03-17T04:00:00.180-07:00Happy St. Patrick's Day!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSxM5fbh2zERkWS5A6wZ-3WZZQb_q3L4v8E_fe3oCh1wE5OUD76soEu76aqntdQNhDV-GdoWP-8eOGSYqQx459rkTGp6jFaw5w4hmOf8CsXbIiWuMqBD-niovH7X-xLmVHalR54rxT_1_2u6dHNTmcb0JBSUcsrUNZYiNupVZ1KSzLTJlQ7-vRczMn=s225" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSxM5fbh2zERkWS5A6wZ-3WZZQb_q3L4v8E_fe3oCh1wE5OUD76soEu76aqntdQNhDV-GdoWP-8eOGSYqQx459rkTGp6jFaw5w4hmOf8CsXbIiWuMqBD-niovH7X-xLmVHalR54rxT_1_2u6dHNTmcb0JBSUcsrUNZYiNupVZ1KSzLTJlQ7-vRczMn=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /> Happy St. Patrick's Day from Blanton Advisors, LLC!<p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-33620425232983920992022-03-11T19:28:00.002-08:002022-03-11T19:28:42.261-08:00Celebrate Women's History Month!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwQsBedK1TTbccZ-yd0HgHv5zNL10ZDAR1qGil-j-YQ4OVf9CBM0IHqEYSXOs5rIkyLLl500PmNve5z_fRHGU2r-JUUUkHrJD62pcKAEO-guzpA75R9s27h6OfMi4n1BIDoqRL6wVppAZCvvkFH6p62RDg5WE3M5ueKBMdWY3Ng_m3RUqK-4qyPVMJ=s300" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwQsBedK1TTbccZ-yd0HgHv5zNL10ZDAR1qGil-j-YQ4OVf9CBM0IHqEYSXOs5rIkyLLl500PmNve5z_fRHGU2r-JUUUkHrJD62pcKAEO-guzpA75R9s27h6OfMi4n1BIDoqRL6wVppAZCvvkFH6p62RDg5WE3M5ueKBMdWY3Ng_m3RUqK-4qyPVMJ=w640-h358" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">March is Women’s History Month. Celebrating women in history
started in 1981 with a week of celebration. By 1994, Congress passed
resolutions that designated the entire month of March as “Women’s History
Month.” The purpose, initially, was to honor those women who made significant
contributions to the United States. It is now celebrated in the United States,
United Kingdom, and Australia and aligns with International Women’s Day, which
is March 8<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>To properly recognize Women’s History Month, I would like
to introduce three women in U.S. history who, to me, epitomize strength, honor,
determination, value, and contribution.</b> There are many, many women in
our country’s history who represent these attributes, I’m just highlighting
three here. You should think about your three.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>First on my list is Abigail Adams</b>. Ms. Adams was the
wife of our second president, John Adams. She was also mother to our sixth
president, John Quincy Adams. What was her significance? She served as a close
advisor and confidant to her husband. Ms. Adams is often referred to as one of
the Founders of the United States. While she played a key role in the
development of our country, she was rarely given the credit she deserved.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It has been noted that Abigail Adams was active politically
and wrote often about the challenges of women in the 18<sup>th</sup> century.
She was particularly concerned with business and educational opportunities for
women. Her efforts more greatly influenced the development of our country that we
may realize. It has been documented that Ms. Adams was more resilient and
level-headed than her husband. Perhaps she made more decisions about our
country’s future than we realize.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Second on my list is Susan B. Anthony.</b> Born in
1820, Ms. Anthony was an early activist for women’s rights. While only 17 years
old she became active in the movement against slavery. She remained steadfast
on equal rights for everyone. In 1866 she helped develop the American Equal
Rights Association, promoting equal rights for women and African
Americans. That’s right, 1866! It took far too long for this movement to
become law.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Ms. Anthony faced incredible opposition. Nonetheless, she
persevered and was adamant about moving her cause forward. Much has been made
about Ms. Anthony’s political beliefs, which I believe can be argued because I
am not sure that we know the exact truth. What I do believe is that Susan B.
Anthony started a movement that most certainly helped women and African
Americans in the United States. It took strength and determination to make that
happen. For that we should be grateful.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Third, on my list is Harriet Tubman. </b>Born into
slavery in 1822, she became a political activist and one of our countries most
well-known abolitionists. She escaped from slavery in 1849 using the
Underground Railroad. Ms. Tubman facilitated over a dozen missions to free
slaves using the Underground Railroad.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As one who was raised in a strong Christian home, she
professed an extraordinarily strong faith. Her faith must have given her the
courage needed to perform her work. One can only imagine the incredible odds
against her and frightening experiences she encountered every day. To this day
Harriet Tubman is known for being one of the bravest women in the history of
the United States. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Two additional points of interest about Harriet Tubman.
First, it is said that she always carried a revolver and was not afraid to put
it into action. I would assume so! She probably should have carried two.
Secondly, she was nicknamed “Moses” because of her continued efforts to free
other slaves.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">While I mention only three in this post, there are many more
who have helped develop our country and world. We should be grateful for the
work of these incredible women. I encourage you to come up with your own three
women who you think deserve praise.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Go and celebrate Women’s History Month!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">- By Jeff Newkirk, Associate CFO - Blanton Advisors, LLC</p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-89866586158548910342022-02-21T04:21:00.001-08:002022-02-21T04:21:25.991-08:00Happy Presidents Day from Blanton Advisors! <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCMT9a3AcVNc-9vL-cBmnUnP45O6c8NFzToxbfoFE7ypXt2437o_3CGkfrqSkdideaNY7MdldCWNuWi-93bmwwqjwPWagwXSnrUx8TbRa17zWSM0uVWHFFZGo6n95PrmNsk3rw0nRFGVPmZ9fCUpS0YJr2FrM0xp7IpChbA_lEFcq4BjFunwtEtOqY=s300" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCMT9a3AcVNc-9vL-cBmnUnP45O6c8NFzToxbfoFE7ypXt2437o_3CGkfrqSkdideaNY7MdldCWNuWi-93bmwwqjwPWagwXSnrUx8TbRa17zWSM0uVWHFFZGo6n95PrmNsk3rw0nRFGVPmZ9fCUpS0YJr2FrM0xp7IpChbA_lEFcq4BjFunwtEtOqY=w640-h358" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> <span data-offset-key="70qae-0-0" style="animation-name: none !important; background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; transition-property: none !important; white-space: pre-wrap;">"Every accomplishment starts with the </span><span style="animation-name: none !important; background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; transition-property: none !important; white-space: pre-wrap;">decision</span><span data-offset-key="70qae-2-0" style="animation-name: none !important; background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; transition-property: none !important; white-space: pre-wrap;"> to try." - John F. Kennedy</span></span><p></p><div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="9shol" data-offset-key="qfcu-0-0" style="animation-name: none !important; background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; transition-property: none !important; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="qfcu-0-0" style="animation-name: none !important; direction: ltr; position: relative; transition-property: none !important;"><span data-offset-key="qfcu-0-0" style="animation-name: none !important; transition-property: none !important;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br data-text="true" style="animation-name: none !important; transition-property: none !important;" /></span></span></div></div><div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="9shol" data-offset-key="cqbaf-0-0" style="animation-name: none !important; background-color: white; color: #050505; font-size: 15px; transition-property: none !important; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="cqbaf-0-0" style="animation-name: none !important; direction: ltr; position: relative; transition-property: none !important;"><br /></div></div>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-74422611458228969752022-02-18T08:00:00.004-08:002022-02-18T08:00:55.583-08:00Workplace Gossip = Lack of Trust = Decrease in Productivity = Reduction in Profits<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgez2MVTpZS5BiTZI7XhLQY-RGOsdw2JAlZW8zNiX3lJl9EhU71hQbRHYkmMmTNY0gz3EhGI9hIPLmhMLbOfUbS2arhjjLFp73gzvk8dIKq3K5HKNxfXw9IBJa9bAD6ok_Ud4kZEDSKr8JieCmWtxHWyF43O_d-BVi7c8pnKb0rLmfj1oSNJHulZp1T=s407" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="407" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgez2MVTpZS5BiTZI7XhLQY-RGOsdw2JAlZW8zNiX3lJl9EhU71hQbRHYkmMmTNY0gz3EhGI9hIPLmhMLbOfUbS2arhjjLFp73gzvk8dIKq3K5HKNxfXw9IBJa9bAD6ok_Ud4kZEDSKr8JieCmWtxHWyF43O_d-BVi7c8pnKb0rLmfj1oSNJHulZp1T=w640-h468" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;">Here’s the deal… when people in the workplace gossip it
hurts the company. Inappropriate conversation (or gossip) creates a toxic
environment. What’s a “toxic environment?” It is an environment that is fraught
with drama, infighting, intimidation, and GOSSIP. Here’s the short of it… when
employees gossip it will create a toxic environment. Trust will nosedive.
Productivity will evaporate. Profitability will vanish.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;">When leaders gossip – game over. Success will be elusive.
Bottom line (literally) is don’t gossip.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;">By Jeff Newkirk - Blanton Advisors, LLC Associate CFO &
Executive Coach</span><o:p></o:p></p><br />Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-52705285576839682522022-02-14T07:28:00.001-08:002022-02-14T07:28:23.422-08:00Happy Valentine's Day!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBVZ4jAfeWPWbyv80CkOve_-UBPqszr0RYolAhIVpWnBrTQHfbWpeQ0cxtfvwjsISr7D-euKxYXS8HVZS1OUizG_2myfmSp9FwZ9QFZO39p1jBzjKyt68jUd0ArvQXm4SZONb_6XC2hhTfZBYXoXFa6vWf5Nirzh21QhXG0rY1RW6WB1bKMJY1El1W=s1075" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="1075" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBVZ4jAfeWPWbyv80CkOve_-UBPqszr0RYolAhIVpWnBrTQHfbWpeQ0cxtfvwjsISr7D-euKxYXS8HVZS1OUizG_2myfmSp9FwZ9QFZO39p1jBzjKyt68jUd0ArvQXm4SZONb_6XC2hhTfZBYXoXFa6vWf5Nirzh21QhXG0rY1RW6WB1bKMJY1El1W=w640-h346" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-67963840939968965662022-02-04T08:44:00.000-08:002022-02-04T08:44:16.319-08:00Positive Thinking and Happier Living<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMJtsZ6Kdo4b_TffArO_nVau4TkF2FQiXkgryJY88BRN6iu7DHuKTW92QC6hfTi0bfG2Ax8O180UEz79OBxqfn58VJC7M8mgoltCgo7iVyFHZHBOKopogWG_fZQDpKroBaMTTLTjNGBGw-X7AMH0OJV-4_zNhj97dmG5o8C3AbXlAAzw7Ti_qLqAUK=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="429" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMJtsZ6Kdo4b_TffArO_nVau4TkF2FQiXkgryJY88BRN6iu7DHuKTW92QC6hfTi0bfG2Ax8O180UEz79OBxqfn58VJC7M8mgoltCgo7iVyFHZHBOKopogWG_fZQDpKroBaMTTLTjNGBGw-X7AMH0OJV-4_zNhj97dmG5o8C3AbXlAAzw7Ti_qLqAUK=w640-h429" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Just looking at a picture of a puppy should put a smile on
your face, right? In 1952, Norman Vincent Peale told us that positive thinking
will make our lives much better. In his book, <i>The Power of Positive of
Thinking</i>, he said “The way to happiness: Keep your heart free from hate,
your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Scatter sunshine,
forget self, think of others.” Powerful stuff, right? Imagine if we all lived
out Mr. Peale’s wish for us. The world would be a better place for sure.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Try these two steps to progress towards positive thinking
and happier living:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Step 1 – Practice gratitude</span></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. It’s
hard to be negative when you are always thankful.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Step 2 – Put others before yourself</span></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. If
you seek out ways to help others, it is difficult to focus on worry and
negativity.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Go forth and seek positive thinking and happier living!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">By Jeff Newkirk - Blanton Advisors, LLC Associate CFO & Executive Coach</p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-27222858834556309542022-01-21T09:25:00.020-08:002022-01-21T09:31:42.521-08:00Live2Lead - Hosted by Blanton Advisors<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiM0jXf-di5_k54jyU1lswugdJJ4qqDu-V8KfbZj2euLfGNwQV8jBYohRN8e7FEbIbaUhtPmW3TXf91_C_WoyaihHh3XbiCNgDkRNMrtx8ww3ukmd7hSwW6wCzTece3RP56hF2VPlBOjAKXc4EZzLlLp5GPFXhlduLQKGEUjYINRE8BKn4InDHxSLVo=s2626" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1446" data-original-width="2626" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiM0jXf-di5_k54jyU1lswugdJJ4qqDu-V8KfbZj2euLfGNwQV8jBYohRN8e7FEbIbaUhtPmW3TXf91_C_WoyaihHh3XbiCNgDkRNMrtx8ww3ukmd7hSwW6wCzTece3RP56hF2VPlBOjAKXc4EZzLlLp5GPFXhlduLQKGEUjYINRE8BKn4InDHxSLVo=w640-h352" width="640" /></a></div> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif">Join
the hosts, Barry Blanton and Jeff Newkirk on Friday, January 28</span><sup style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">th</sup><span face="Arial, sans-serif"> at
The Woodlands Methodist Church for an action-packed day! </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background: white;">This is an opportunity for you to network
with like-minded leaders who share passion for leadership and learning, and
make new connections. You will leave equipped and
excited to lead and create change with renewed passion and drive.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Broadcast speakers</span></u></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">John
C. Maxwell</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="text-align: left;"> – Leadership
expert, Bestselling author and coach</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Jamie
Kern Lima</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><b> </b>–
<b> </b>Founder of IT Cosmetics, Bestselling author and philanthropist.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Valorie
Burton</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><b> </b>– CEO of
Coaching and Positive Psychology Instituted</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Jeff
Henderson</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><b> </b>–
Entrepreneur, Best-selling author and Communicator</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Ed
Mylett</span></b><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><b> </b>– Best-selling
author and Peak performance expert</span></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: black;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Local
leader panel</b></span></u></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Megan Alarid </b>– Guide to Business Success, Heightened Leaders</div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;">Missy Herndon</b> – President & CEO, Interfaith of the Woodlands</div></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;">Mike Novelli</b><b> – </b>Founder & President, Cypressbrook Company</div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif">For
information and to reserve your seat visit </span><a href="http://www.l2lthewoodlands.com/" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Live2Lead website</a><span face="Arial, sans-serif">. We hope to
see you January 28</span><sup style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">th</sup><span face="Arial, sans-serif"> for the event! Sponsorships are still
available. Contact </span><a href="mailto:tjwise@blantonadvisors.com" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">tjwise@blantonadvisors.com</a><span face="Arial, sans-serif">
with any questions.</span></p><br /><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-32806037681041676482022-01-17T04:00:00.001-08:002022-01-17T04:00:00.182-08:00Martin Luther King Day<p> <strong style="background-color: white; color: #303030; font-family: "Georgia Pro", Georgia, "Droid Serif", serif; font-size: 18px;">"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'' - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.</strong></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhIpCUA0FWFoL8fZIKERcrU4fDjGQouX_sIEw2a1BkB0HFdOOwp2kz_rYex-M7hEVVSFUiajZHMpjE3r-5K_0NXTjux6ZVnhZ6YXoFwLQZtql0Qo3gBOV9EB_g2Sfi6rgNrDc0OuvAcvhlNbW0CkG7yInG9pGYyJSlDTKRInQQD6BFCOUOnbsW6Kj3I=s214" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="212" data-original-width="214" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhIpCUA0FWFoL8fZIKERcrU4fDjGQouX_sIEw2a1BkB0HFdOOwp2kz_rYex-M7hEVVSFUiajZHMpjE3r-5K_0NXTjux6ZVnhZ6YXoFwLQZtql0Qo3gBOV9EB_g2Sfi6rgNrDc0OuvAcvhlNbW0CkG7yInG9pGYyJSlDTKRInQQD6BFCOUOnbsW6Kj3I=w400-h396" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><strong style="background-color: white; color: #303030; font-family: "Georgia Pro", Georgia, "Droid Serif", serif; font-size: 18px;"><br /></strong><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-42004792923670022042022-01-07T14:15:00.000-08:002022-01-07T14:15:01.833-08:00“Comes in pretty handy down here, bub.” Money that is.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzMTlVfGYu-0Aw1awdC7ydcWL63EFHOjy1bVz9nuHC_T1qLeYOqYad6yNhrlNG-KkmUTjqit3gzS3dFuvQF3tNzwETqJ5SFfyi9EYj8DLgtdz3V8lObGVkM48jeW0SLCP9WMs2xt8uLNgssWWgMX7HrAlrV6nBnLqFLxq0LeKY27aVUek1siyLDtmU=s540" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="540" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzMTlVfGYu-0Aw1awdC7ydcWL63EFHOjy1bVz9nuHC_T1qLeYOqYad6yNhrlNG-KkmUTjqit3gzS3dFuvQF3tNzwETqJ5SFfyi9EYj8DLgtdz3V8lObGVkM48jeW0SLCP9WMs2xt8uLNgssWWgMX7HrAlrV6nBnLqFLxq0LeKY27aVUek1siyLDtmU=w640-h394" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: justify;">For those who have seen the Christmas classic </span><i style="font-family: arial; text-align: justify;">It’s a
Wonderful Life</i><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: justify;">, do you recall the scene where George Bailey is talking with
his guardian angel, Clarence? George needed $8,000, but Clarence didn’t have
any money on him. He was an angel after all. He didn’t carry cash. Well, we
probably all feel a little like George Baily right now. We could certainly use
some money. As a business owner or organizational leader, we need to be in full
scale leadership mode. This includes knowing how your business is functioning
today, right now. In Tilman Fertitta’s recent book, </span><i style="font-family: arial; text-align: justify;">Shut Up and Listen!</i><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: justify;">,
Mr. Fertitta recommends that we must know our numbers. We need to know if we
have money. That’s the only way we can know exactly how the business is doing,
the only way we can know how to make good, meaningful, and long-lasting
decisions. Now, what numbers is Mr. Fertitta referring to? Every business is
different, but every business needs money to survive.</span></span></div></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: .25in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="text-align: left;">Here is today’s directive… know your numbers</b><span style="text-align: left;">. Conduct
a review of your financial statements – income, cash flow, and balance sheet.
Answer these questions: </span><b style="text-align: left;">What is your net profit? What is your gross
revenue? What is your cash balance? What was the increase or decrease in cash
from last month and last year? Do you have more assets than liabilities?</b><span style="text-align: left;"> Compare
today’s statements against last month and last year. This is your big picture.
Next step is to dive into the details.</span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: .25in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>By Jeff Newkirk - Blanton Advisors, LLC Associate CFO & Executive Coach</span></span></p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: .25in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: .25in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0.25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459580659677412890.post-86453093172639612762020-09-03T08:41:00.002-07:002020-09-03T08:42:37.876-07:00Blanton Advisors, LLC Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary<p><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB5OgLYhI9ypfWeWMrnvMlUC2ezLYVMQ7d_3I186N85cTTVkEhDW3MkD4Zwj-6m7_whqq0g728zaZe6c-1aWLGuddfLXw0gLi9qPDTTN-DVnmEuxP6cAX5F0zMCuc0oRjfBBz0m3TG_38/s2048/Blanton+Advisors+10+Year+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB5OgLYhI9ypfWeWMrnvMlUC2ezLYVMQ7d_3I186N85cTTVkEhDW3MkD4Zwj-6m7_whqq0g728zaZe6c-1aWLGuddfLXw0gLi9qPDTTN-DVnmEuxP6cAX5F0zMCuc0oRjfBBz0m3TG_38/s320/Blanton+Advisors+10+Year+Photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><br />Blanton
Advisors, LLC is excited to celebrate their 10th anniversary. </span><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Over
the past 10 years, the firm has worked with over one hundred various clients
ranging from startups to $60 million companies.
These have included medical practices, specialty retailers, contractors,
restaurants, and a variety of other business types. The firm has enabled these business owners to
improve financial reporting, clean-up accounting, navigate ownership changes,
make acquisitions, and establish solid monthly financial reporting. </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Adam Cole, President and
owner of longstanding client Cole Health, offered these thoughts, “Barry and
his team at Blanton Advisors have been critical to our growth over the past 10
years. They have helped us with all things financial – including but not
limited to banking, accounting, bookkeeping, risk management, and even sales
and acquisitions. Blanton Advisors has helped us work through hard and
uncertain times in addition to times of tremendous growth. It is
wonderful to know that we have the financial resources we need that will adapt
as we change and support us no matter what.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Barry Blanton, Founder and
owner stated, “Thank you to all of our great clients and supportive referral
partners for helping us reach this milestone anniversary.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><b><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">About Blanton Advisors, LLC<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Founded
in September 2010 by Barry D. Blanton, the firm offers experienced Chief
Financial Officer (CFO) services on a flexible engagement basis providing
customized business solutions based on proven financial leadership and business
experience. Blanton Advisors empowers entrepreneurs by equipping them with
tools and resources to make wise financial decisions without the necessity of a
full-time financial executive. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Blanton
Advisors is located at 19221 I-45 South, Suite 180, The Woodlands, TX 77385. </span></p>Blanton Advisorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621764141123958966noreply@blogger.com0