The Power of Winning Awards

September 11, 2019September 11, 2019

Winning an award can change your life in a multitude of ways. Most notably, you will be able to add one, hyphenated, very powerful word to the description of your product or service. The word? Award-winning!

Winning an award elevates your products and services to a higher level, which naturally means that your customer’s expectations of you will also increase. If you’re like most people, your expectations of yourself will increase as well. After all, once you’ve climbed one mountain, you are more prepared to climb another!

It took me six years as a young executive to receive my first award, but I’ll never forget it. I was taking a Dale Carnegie Course and my class of 35 CEOs voted me as the person in the class who most exemplified the Dale Carnegie values. I still value my prize, a golden book of values from Dale Carnegie. Winning that award was an affirmation of everything I had learned. I also felt pretty good about myself to have been singled out as a young executive by the distinguished, experienced CEOs in my midst!

That was more than a decade ago. Since then I have won more than 25 awards from business groups (Chambers of Commerce, media companies (Reflejos,Daily Herald Business Ledger, Chicago Business Journal), trade organizations (CLUTCH Marketing), associations (Publicity Club of Chicago, Chicago Association of Direct Marketers), nonprofits (The Autism Hero Project Community “Hero Award), and others. One of my latest awards was presented to me in Belgium by the Seminar for Hispanic Entrepreneurs (SHE) in recognition of my promotion of Latinas in business. This time, the award was a complete surprise. I was there attending the conference and courting a strategic alliance, but I had no idea the award was coming.

As I took the stage to say a few words, I looked out into the audience of women, many of them I now called friends, and realized that the award wasn’t about me at all. It was about them and having the ability to serve them. I’ve come to realize that the power of winning an award isn’t about having a beautiful trophy on your desk to impress the next prospective customer who comes in your office so they sign the deal. Rather, it’s a responsibility to take your recognition and use it to serve others at an even higher level. Winning an award challenges us to go forth and do anything possible to better those within your sphere of influence. Being an award winner means you are a role model and example for others; you should always be creating evidence to support that position.

That’s one reason I added an award program to Today’s Inspired Latina. As the authors within my six-volume books series have bonded and become a community of friends, colleagues, and evangelists for Latina empowerment, I now name a “Latina of the Year” from the ladies most active in our movement. The distinction is an affirmation of their work on our behalf, but also a recognition of what we expect them to achieve in the future. I like to think the award gives them power, like a super-charged jet pack, to fly to even greater heights with everything they are already doing for our movement!

I’m thankful for all the awards that have come my way, but most importantly, I’m thankful for the people I have gone on to serve, empowered by the confidence and opportunity I received from winning those awards. I’m also grateful to have given out awards. It’s satisfying to place into the hands of others, in trophy form, my gratitude for those who have helped me succeed with their hard work and excellence. In short, receiving awards give us power. Giving awards bestows power. Go forth and use your power responsibly!

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (http://www.todayslatina.com), author of thirteen books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

What Does “100” Mean to You?

September 11, 2019September 11, 2019

For me, when I hear the word “100,” I know a milestone has been reached and it’s time to celebrate!

100 pennies? Yeah, now I have a dollar!

100 percent on a test? I’m going to give myself a pat on the back!

Another 100 years gone by? You bet we’ll amp up the New Years Eve celebration!

If I have the opportunity to turn 100 years old, I’ll be excited to receive a birthday card from the president!

The first 100 days are past? Time to celebrate what’s been accomplished!

That’s why I was so excited when I realized that I had a special “100” to celebrate of my very own. Since earning my sport plane pilot’s license in 2017, I have logged 100 hours of flight time. And that’s something to celebrate!

One hundred hours is a long time to devote to anything, let alone an interest outside of work and family. Yet it’s nice to know that it can be done.

A recent article in Entrepreneur magazine talks about how important it is to have a life outside of work,even for CEOs. It’s important for our productivity, our emotional well being and our relationships with family and friends. When I’m flying, I feel free from the pressures of everything back on Earth and I know that I have achieved a dream, something for myself.

For someone who works as an airline pilot, 100 hours is nothing. To me, it represents the realization of a dream that took hold when I first took a discovery flight in a sport plane. It wasn’t easy to do while running two businesses and a nonprofit organization, but I embrace that I am more than a CEO. I am a dreamer who can make her dreams come true. Even if you’re the CEO, you can too! And you should!

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

Living a Life of Significance

April 19, 2019April 19, 2019

Sig·nif·i·cance (/siɡˈnifikəns/)

the quality of being worthy of attention; importance.
the meaning to be found in words or events.

No matter who you are, where you live, or what you do, you are given one life to live on this Earth.

What will you do with that life?

Some of us live intentionally, with a plan and a bucket list of things to do. Others never give tomorrow a second thought, or possibly live in fear that today may be their last. Others try to live a life that is as meaningful as possible to them and the people around them..in other words, a life of significance.

Living a life of significance can mean a lot of things to many people, but to me, living a life of significance means a life that touches as many people as possible in positive ways. This is how I try to live my life every day with the people I meet, the people I serve, and the people who love me. I try to live my life in a way that will uplift others and help them reach their dreams, even as I reach for mine.

Another word for it is living as a Servant Leader. As I lead my team, make an impact in the community and help others become more, I live to serve others and keep this at the forefront of my agenda. It’s how I ended up launching my non-profit, the Fig Factor Foundation, which unleashes the amazing in young Latinas. It also helped launch an international movement, spun from my Today’s Inspired Latina book series which celebrates victory over adversity in Latina women.

I have a few “secret weapons” I use to keep me aware of this mission as I go through my day. They help me sleep better at night, knowing I have done all I could for others.

Write thank you cards.

Psychologists, life and wellness coaches, inspirational speakers (and this author too!) will tell you that counting your blessings and thinking about what you are thankful for during the day is very empowering. Gratitude begets more gratitude, and it’s a positive emotion to introduce into your life. Professionals also believe it leads to more happiness and healthy, emotional well-being. When someone does something for you, be sure to send a thank you card. “But I send thank you emails!” you may protest. It’s just not the same. There’s something warm and personal about handwritten notes these days, particularly because it shows that you took an extra step—your own handwriting and putting something in the mail—to make it happen. Emails are great. Handwritten cards are better!

Actively think of others throughout the day.

In the car, walking between meetings or in the few moments of silence in my day, I try to think of those who have made it possible for me to do what I do: my family, my clients, my co-workers and everyone else who is special to me. This goes hand in hand with remembering who got you where you are. No one has reached their current level of success alone. Others have helped us, whether it was a friendly word, writing a testimonial, or referring us to someone we needed to meet. When you are in the presence of these “gifts,” remember who first gave them to you..and maybe take time to thank them that day.

Surprise others with unexpected gifts.

Gifts need not be expensive. They can be as simple as bringing coffee or a box of pastries to a meeting or introducing a bit of fun into a strategy session. I like to make gifts of the books I’ve written through the Fig Factor Foundation, as they may relate to my clients. Gifts make others feel valued and significant in your life. Gifts don’t have to be material, either. When we take the time to sit and listen to a friend talk about a difficult situation, or we pitch in and help someone in need, we are making a gift of ourselves to someone else and living significantly.

Go beyond what is expected to support others.

What do you need? These are amazing words that can lead to incredible things for the receiver and that speaker as well. When others ask a favor, dig down and see how you can best help them, even if it is not part of their request. If they ask you to spread the word about something, support it with your resources too. If they ask for a donation, offer to help other ways. If they ask you to volunteer, offer to lead. “One up” your support, and you will find yourself serving selflessly and living more significantly than ever before.

Send unexpected appreciated messages of appreciation.

Servant Leaders are always thinking of others and sharing what they know and learn in order to empower them. When you read something online or watch a video that you think someone would appreciate, share it with your circle, along with the reason you think they would enjoy it. You never know the impact that sharing the right “something” may inspire or empower someone else.

Offer your value and ideas to others.

To do this, you need to get out of your own ego and concentrate on the other person. As an entrepreneur, I find myself doing this daily as I not only offer clients exciting marketing ideas, but also any resource or referral that will help them with an unrelated problem they are having. Sitting on boards, offering internship, and mentorship programs are other ways you can impact other lives significantly and receive so much in return.

I don’t know about you, but I hope to positively touch as many people’s lives as I possibly can before I leave this earth. Join me in introducing these “secret weapons” to your life and enjoy a life of serving others and living significantly!

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

It’s All About Perspective

March 25, 2019March 25, 2019

Whether you’re choosing a side in an argument, leading a company, or taking off in your own private airplane, sometimes “doing it all” is all about perspective.

I’ve had the question often in media interviews: How do you do all that you do? On the surface, my list is pretty daunting: wife and mother of two, CEO of JJR Marketing and Fig Factor Media, Founder of the Fig Factor Foundation, author of 13 books, international speaker and sports pilot. All of them require time, energy and resources. My secret? Perspective.

I’ve met leaders with amazing ideas and flawless execution but there is just something missing in what they offer. I call it the convergence of magic and practicality, which in my case, is fueled by perspective.

On a clear day when I feel like flying, I race down the runway in exciting anticipation of that feeling of ascension, when I slip into the alternate state that has become my calm, my zen, my escape, my second home. Up in the clouds I see everything differently. Highways become winding ribbons with little car insects crawling along them. Fields become patches in a glorious, verdant quilt. And the local water park? It looks like a hamster’s playland set on a child’s green rug stained with blue and white.

I am “zoomed out” and it gives me a different perspective on my world. It’s this kind of dramatic shift in perspective that I bring back to Earth in order to fuse magic and practicality and make things amazing happen every day.

When I zoom out, I can conceive the magical possibilities beyond my idea. My zoomed out perspective showed me how my anthology series of Latinas overcoming diversity, Today’s Inspired Latina, could support a movement of Latina empowerment that would one day skip across the ocean to flourish on the European continent. It was my zoomed out perspective that let me envision the establishment of a publishing house, Fig Factor Media, to help authors bring inspirational and significant stories to the world. The zoom out helps a leader visualize the magic. Without taking that perspective, the magic will never manifest.

But if the zoom out allows us to conceive the ideas, the “zoom in” helps us achieve them. Before I take flight and zoom out to my 20,000-foot view, I must adjust my perspective and “zoom in” during my pre-flight preparation. Pre-flight requires inspections and checklists, focusing on the details so I can thrive. Once I get in mid-air, I am the master of my fate and my survival depends on how well I “zoomed in” as well as my skill as a pilot. At work, the zoom in means making sure sure my team is prepared with the right tools to do the job and our processes are airtight so we make deadlines and delight clients.

By developing the ability to “zoom in” and “zoom out” when needed, your journey to success will be much easier. “Zooming in” and “zooming out” are both important features of perspective that help us to grow and thrive. So next time you are wondering how to get it all done, remember, it’s all about the perspective. Zoom out and see the possibilities. Zoom in and make it happen!

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

How to Build a Community for Your Mission – Part 2

February 6, 2019February 28, 2019

The previous blog talked about how to craft the foundation of your mission, finding the “why,” solidifying your vision, and being consistent in your messaging and commitment. It described my efforts in establishing the Fig Factor Foundation and how I built an evangelistic group of supporters for Today’s inspired Latina.

Now we continue with the rest of the story of how to build a community. After you have a solid foundation in place, what do you do next in your quest to build a community?

Assemble Your Team

How do you know if someone’s interested…REALLY interested..in your message? I say watch for the sparkle in their eyes! Usually, it’s our unconscious way of saying we’re ready for the challenge. It’s also an indication there is an underlying passion for the cause, or the “why” of the project. It’s not always there. For example, once I was asked to serve on the board of an animal advocacy group and realized I just could not accept because my passion was with young Latinas, not animals. But when you have the right person for the job, you’ll see the sparkle in their eyes as they accept the mission. Most likely, they will work tirelessly alongside you towards their goal because the mission aligns with their underlying passion. Then it becomes a labor of love.

Work the Project

Working on the project is where the magic happens! It’s connecting our dreams with actions. If we dream but do not take action, nothing will happen. Conversely, if we create connections out in the community but do not take action, we lose opportunity because we do not see the big picture of what could be. There are natural motivators for us to take action like setting goals and deadlines. The most important thing is to keep moving forward. What should you do if the team gets stuck or becomes divisive? Return to your “why.” Usually the path becomes clearer as we all return to the point of agreement, the “why.”

Spread the Word

Before you start your mission, as you are engaged with it, and after you complete it (if ever), marketing should be a part of your efforts. Before you can build a community you must reach out to it. That’s where marketing comes in. Marketing reaches out to make a powerful connection with the community by spreading the right message using the right marketing vehicles. The same concepts apply to building a beautiful brand. As a marketing professional, these skills of mine come in handy as I continue to build my community. A special mission, like so many things in life, must be marketed well with a solid plan in order to successfully build the community needed to sustain it.

Funding the Need

In the perfect world, all good causes would have full funding but that is never the case. To fund your mission, look for people whose passion aligns with your mission and those who have reached a life of success and now seek a life of significance by paying their good fortune forward. Creative approaches can help in fundraising too. People are looking for something disruptive to help them connect and give them a greater “why,” or reason to write that check. Consider the recent ALS “ice bucket challenge” or the “Red Nose Day” to end child poverty. Over and over again, I’ve seen the dramatic effect of being disruptive in marketing; it’s no accident!

Throughout your efforts to build a community, you will encounter the naysayers. the people who warn you that your ideas won’t work. Know that if you have the right team, marketing, workflow and funding, anything is possible. All it takes is consistency, authenticity and commitment to the mission. Then you will be able to build a community that will not only support you, but take you places you never expected to go!

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of twelve books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

How to Build a Community for Your Mission – Part 1

January 25, 2019February 6, 2019

When you have a passion and a mission to take a message to the world, you can’t do it alone. You must build a community!

Building a community happens intentionally or even on accident.

A well-placed, catchy hashtag, meme, or funny video can launch a movement and build a community of like-minded thinkers across cyberspace. An event, like a rally or protest, unites people in a mission to produce change or maintain the status quo. But what about a nonprofit organization? Or even a business or corporation?

Building a community for these entities sounds like a daunting task, and it definitely takes hard work, outreach and many hands to make it happen. However, with three magic ingredients, it can be done, and done quickly!

THE WHY

Why do you want to build a community? For what purpose? Answering this question can make the difference between people getting behind you or turning and walking away.

Your “why,” or reason you have for wanting to build a community, is paramount because people will only be interested in joining you if they care about your why. If your reason for building a community is to make more money, people may resist. I like to say that people can smell “BS” a mile away. They are inspired by selflessness, passion, and the experience of being at the epicenter of something that is bigger and more impactful than they are.

When I started Fig Factor Foundation, my “why” was clear. Whenever I would talk to a young Latina they would tell me their dreams, and then go on to list the reasons why the dream would never come true.

I found that the number one reason young Latinas did not reach their potential was because they lacked proper role models for their lives. I saw myself reflected in these young ladies and longed to help them live a greater life of significance. I knew that by providing support and mentorship to these young ladies, I could unleash the “amazing” in them that I knew was there, just waiting to meet the world.

I brought together a board of directors and we launched a program which consisted of four pillars: activate, receive, grow and share. From this humble idea hatched in September of 2014, we now have had 112 girls complete the program and participation has blossomed to include not only Latinas in the United States but Mexico as well.

My “why” for staring the Today’s Inspired Latina book series was similar. I wanted to give successful, Latina entrepreneurs a chance to share their stories of overcoming adversity and inspiring others through the publication of an anthology. From the publication of the first volume, the popularity of this program has exceeded my expectations in every way! I was hoping for ten participants in the first volume.; we ended up with 24, and at least that many or more authors took part in each of the next four volumes.

The authors managed to slowly but surely build a community, a sisterhood of authors who shared the mission to inspire others. Together we traveled to book launches, not only in the U.S. but in Europe as well. They became a community of inspiration for each other and the world as their book publication catapulted them into the public and the media to share their stories and inspire even more people!

All this success started with a solid “why,” a foundational idea that people heard and embraced.

VISION

My alternate name for vision is “divine download.” It’s a feeling, an idea that is so strong you just HAVE to act on it.

I have found that if you have a solid “why,” the vision will follow.

For example, the Fig Factor Foundation was in swing and going strong with more mentors and applicants becoming involved with the program every day, when I had another vision. What if the Fig Factor Foundation could use its social clout to call attention to not only the potential of the girls involved in the program, but all the Latinas throughout Chicagoland?

This vision led me to petition and receive a declaration of “Young Latina Day,” which premiered in West Chicago on April 11, 2016. The community embraced my vision and turned out to support the effort. It was an exciting day and because of our efforts to reach out to the community, the awareness of our mission grew, as did our numbers. Our followers continue to grow, even as we head into 2019 when the celebration of Young Latina Day will be celebrated in the city of Chicago and six separate Chicago suburbs: Aurora, Berwyn, Bolingbrook, Hanover Park, West Chicago, and Bartlett. The building of community because of this vision has been unparalleled!

Admittedly, for a corporation or a business, building a community is harder. People assume if a company is involved, they are looking for profit. But corporate entities with a vision to build community can actively seek and find groups that are working towards a worthy cause and want to support their efforts. These kinds of experiences snowball into an even larger, more cohesive community that can stand side-by-side with the company in support of a goal.

For example, recently, Today’s Inspired Latina was contacted by Estee Lauder to put together a partner event called Belleza, which means beauty in Spanish. The renown cosmetic retailer wanted to support the Latina community with an evening event and reached out to Today’s Inspired Latina to make it happen. Partial proceeds from the evening were returned to the Fig Factor Foundation.

Their “why?” To support women leaders in the Hispanic community and bolster an organization that champions the next generation of Latinas. As a result, 167 ladies turned out in droves and each walked away with a beautiful Estee Lauder lipstick, engraved with the hashtag ELxTIL. That evening, a megacompany went a long way in not only helping continue to build, but also befriending and building a community that is working on behalf of others.

CONSISTENCY

When someone is consistent in their message and their reason for doing, people detect authenticity, and flock to their side.

Conversely, someone whose actions are not in sync with their message, or whose support wavers after the first few months of an effort, will find people falling back and looking for a stronger leader.

Nobody appreciates the politician who promises and doesn’t deliver. People want leaders who won’t disappoint them. They want to be able to take people at their word and be inspired by someone they can believe in.

Think about a meeting where someone is trying to gain support for a venture from a group of investors. Aside from the charts and graphs in their presentation, the person giving the pitch has the power to influence or repel an audience listening to his appeal. Authentic consistency of a message, and a messenger, can fuel community. It moves the community from the street corner to a palace as they gain strength in numbers and commitment.

The authenticity and consistency of my message is one of the reasons I was able to build a community in support of the Fig Factor Foundation. It’s also the reason we attracted Estee Lauder to our Today’s Inspired Latina community. I believed in my message and mission so much that I was working towards it, even when I was the only follower, funding all efforts with my personal dollars and never expecting to make any back. That’s why people believe in my mission and so selflessly contribute their time, talent and dollars. I couldn’t do it without them!

If you want to build a community, it takes more than willing hands and open hearts. It takes a solid “why,” a vision, and consistency and authenticity in your message. With these fundamentals in place, what’s your next step? I will tackle the answer to that question in Part II of this blog!

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of twelve books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

Elevating Each Other: When Women Truly Collaborate

November 19, 2018February 6, 2019

We women entrepreneurs are known for having a “tribe mentality.” That means we actively seek out other like-minded females to share with and give and receive support, encouragement and resources to help us succeed. The ladies within our tribe offer us endless opportunities to collaborate. We feel, and rightly so, that by working together, we can elevate each other to a better place both professionally and personally.

Recently I was in Amsterdam at the fabulous SHE Conference organized by a visionary leader: Veronica Sosa. Then, we headed to Paris for the launch of Today’s Inspired Latina, my book series that highlights Latina authors who have overcome diversity to find success in their lives. I was accompanied by members of my own “tribe,” 15 authors who have contributed to the volumes of the book series. This symbolic event marked the kick off of the Today’s Inspired Latina Europe edition, which will be published with our beautiful collaboration in 2019.

As I was waiting to take the stage, my hostess Veronica Sosa started my introduction and paid me a compliment which deeply touched me. She called me a genuine woman who was there to elevate other women. It was a meaningful thing for me to hear because this is the gospel I preach; we women are here to encourage each other in an authentic way and it is indeed something I strive to do on a daily basis. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Women love to collaborate. But I also believe we can collaborate even better. That’s because we sometimes fail in our collaborations when we begin to think of each other as competition, rather than someone to serve.

When we truly collaborate, we create something bigger than us, something with exponential growth and magic. Only then are we truly two women working as one, with the success of the project at the forefront and no regard for our individual interests.

This is easier said than done! That’s because to cultivate this rich, fruitful ecosystem within our collaborations, we need to develop four important virtues that can make or break our work together:

1. Authenticity

Authenticity is a word with lots of meaning, but in the setting of collaboration it means selflessness, and having the best interest of the other person in mind as well as your own. A collaboration should not be all about elevating yourself; it should be good for the woman involved. Otherwise, you are simply taking advantage of her. You should be able to say to her, “I’m here to serve you as my partner and collaborator, to elevate you, put myself in your shoes and do what I can to have your best interest in mind.” To have such a selfless approach requires a true, genuine trust between parties. It also requires you to keep your true north in focus when your partner, or your project, strays from the ideal path. If your best interests are compromised within the collaboration, are you going to break from serving her or are you going to complete the mission? Or are you going to try to change things to benefit yourself? At that point, staying authentic to the collaboration comes from a place of giving. Like Mother Teresa says, even if you are not being treated fairly, do good anyway.

2.INTEGRITY

When you collaborate, your actions must match your words. When you say you are going to do something, you must do it. Otherwise, you do not have a collaboration—you are both pretending to collaborate. True collaborators who show integrity in their interactions will easily build and retain a lasting trust.

3. HUMILITY

To serve is to give without expecting anything in return and to serve, we must have humility. This is not always the first thing we think of when we decide to collaborate. We dream of our mutual success, visibly measured in dollars, attention, popularity, projects etc. But entering a collaboration with a servant attitude means a dedication first to elevating the other woman. When you do this, I guarantee you will create magic together!

4. GRATITUDE

The best collaborations occur between women who are infused with gratitude. Women infused with gratitude are grateful for the here and now. They do not say, “I’ll be grateful when…” Instead, they recognize the value of having another woman open up her heart in collaboration to accelerate their dreams. Every day they both show up with gratitude and with gratitude as their hammer, they build the foundation of a house where they both can thrive. As they build each room, they gratefully engage in the give and take and celebrate milestones along the way.

As you can see, true collaboration is a high concept that best succeeds from the basest level—serving each other with authenticity, integrity, humility and gratitude. Are you a true collaborator? It isn’t easy, but the effort is well worth it!

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of eleven books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

Lessons From The Battlefield Of Disappointment

November 5, 2018November 5, 2018

What impact has failure had on your life? Do you allow disappointment to push you closer to your dreams or further away from them?

I have been contemplating these questions lately as I reflect on my own experience with disappointment, and how it has become one of my greatest motivators for success.

During piloting school, I ran into a difficult setback while learning to master grass strip landings. On multiple occasions, my persistent efforts to successfully land fell short. I just couldn’t get the technique right. After some time, my only option was to take a break and try again later. I was extremely disappointed, but more than that, I felt like a failure. My inability to conquer this landing made me question if flying was really for me.

Later that day, my 8-year-old daughter shared wisdom with me that I had given to her before. “All you can do is your best,” she told me. “You can go and try again tomorrow. Don’t give up. I believe in you!”

As I reflected on the afternoon’s experience and my daughter’s encouragement, I remembered that failure can become one of my greatest keys to success when I allow it to transform my perspective. In this situation, my disappointment led me to face reality with new vision and I discovered a few valuable lessons along the way.

NEW EXPERIENCES REQUIRE NEW PERSPECTIVE

The rules that govern aviation are much different from the rules that govern automobiles. The same is true of our lives. In order to succeed in new situations, we have to re-align our focus on the needs of our present circumstances.

SUCCESS IS NOT A DESTINATION, IT’S A LIFESTYLE

Many years ago, while at the Leadership Management Institute, I learned that success is the “progressive realization of worthwhile predetermined goals.” This taught me that our moments of success (or failure) should be used as fuel to propel us into our destiny. When we fuse our creativity with practical execution, we are invited into a journey and not simply an ending point.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

When life doesn’t pan out the way that we expected, we must keep showing up. How we face these unmet expectations is ultimately how we reach our goals. By showing up, day after day, we become people of persistence, and the compound effect of our daily focused activity allows us to achieve success.

KEEP GOING

The two greatest assets of any pilot are altitude and speed. On the other end, a pilot’s greatest enemies are low and slow. When a pilot is low to the ground and slow with the plane, they are not able to make quick decisions in critical moments. With altitude and speed, however, the pilot is able to gracefully maneuver the aircraft in nearly any circumstance. When we position ourselves to see things from an elevated point of view, we are more apt to go through our situations, problems, and circumstances with readiness. This allows us to keep pushing forward and come out stronger as a result.

NEVER GIVE UP

This just might be the biggest key of all! We will always face disappointments and failures in life, but we cannot allow these things to hinder us from achieving our goals. When we fuse our dreams with action MAGIC happens. This was certainly the case with my aviation training.

After taking a break, I allowed the information I had gained about plane landings to take deeper root in my mind and heart. Eventually, it became apart of me and the next time I went out to practice, I succeeded with flying colors. When I returned to the field I was stronger than ever and after a few more tests, I achieved my goal and received my pilot’s license.

Facing disappointment in life is like running on a battlefield. One moment we’re chasing the target before us in full confidence, ready to conquer its challenges with courage and resolve. Other times, we are tripped up, forced to face the reality that this field is not for the faint of heart. Though failure and disappointment are inescapable, they do not have to hinder our ability to succeed. When we renew our perspective and keep pushing forward, disappointment can become one of our greatest instructors for success.

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of eleven books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

Lessons Learned from Globalization

October 26, 2018November 5, 2018

When I started my business ten years ago, the word “globalization” wasn’t really something in my immediate or even long term goals! But it developed organically from my burning passion to reach and elevate as many people as I could with my messages of inspiration and encouragement. So here I am!

In the past year, I’ve had the privilege of speaking to, impacting and working with people in more than 10 countries. I’ve addressed business visionaries in places like Sweden, Belgium, Amsterdam, Paris, authors in Mexico and business people in Central America. And I’ve found that when you are working internationally, you must change the way you work.

The first thing to do, however, is …

Embrace Globalization!

Whether you planned it or it developed organically, don’t be afraid to let your passion move you into unknown territory or different parts of the world. You never know where it will lead!

When I first launched the anthology book series, Today’s Inspired Latina, featuring more than 20 authors in each volume, I never dreamed the project would develop into a global movement. It started with 25 local authors, most of them from the Chicago area. But then I watched as the second volume drew authors from other areas of the country, then from Mexico, South America, Puerto Rico and beyond.

This month, I was asked to speak to a group of Latina entrepreneurs in Amsterdam and one of the ladies became an author in Volume 4. Soon, I had a number of European Latinas expressing interest in telling their stories within the pages of Today’s Inspired Latina.

Now, even as we work on Today’s Inspired Latina Vol. 5 with authors from Mexico and the Dominican Republic, we are planning an all-European version for Volume 6, as a result of one speaking engagement. I never predicted that the power of the message and mission behind the book would resonate so strongly with European Latinas and so quickly expand our movement’s global footprint!

As I write this, I am have presented the Today’s Inspired Latina book series at the prestigious New York Times in NY, Amsterdam and Paris. I have 15 authors from all the volumes joining me for the first European tour. They will address our overseas book sisters with messages of inspiration and perseverance.

My takeaway is that when you have an authentic message and offer people something of value, globalization comes organically. Be open and receive!

Reset your Clock

Perhaps one of the most obvious differences between doing business domestically versus abroad is the time zone difference. Nowadays, I wake up at 5am to messages from my colleagues across the world who are just ending their workday. With China 14 hours ahead and Europe a good seven or eight, I am cognizant that the world does not keep my hours. I have to change my communication patterns to be available when it’s convenient for them.

Boost Your Tech Game

When you do not have the blessing of being able to sit across the table from someone, you must rely on technology. Since my globalization, I have sought out and been introduced to many great apps including:

Zoom. Great for video meetings.
Facebook Messenger. Quick, easy and affordable communication with people around the world through Facebook.
Whatsapp. A great app and favorite for people communicating internationally. I find it even better than email for sending images, voice memos, photos, texting, etc.
Belive A must have resource for live Facebook broadcasts to see viewer’s comments and more.

The hard part about relying on technology is that the technology must work…or else! Test your equipment before the meeting starts. Bad connections and reception will hamper your productivity and efficiency. Make the investment in time and money to secure the right tools and the right connection so all is well.

Get Social

Social media is a quick and easy yet powerful tool for globalization. Recently, I had the honor of appearing on the cover of Business Fit Magazine, a European publication for business professionals. I was truly humbled to receive an outpouring of love and social media likes and shares for my post. Social media is perhaps the easiest, most effective way to expand your global reach…and feel the love all over the world!

Finally,

Don’t Forget… Authenticity is Universal

Remember, your authenticity transcends borders, language and culture. It really doesn’t matter who you are dealing with or what country they live in. Qualities like honesty, transparency, following through on your promises and integrity are always in fashion, all over the world.

Some people have a clear vision for their globalization and expansion across the globe. My journey was different, but fruitful and rich with valuable lessons. I wish you all the best with your endeavors on this continent and across the globe!

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of eleven books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.

Taking Your Authentic Self Abroad

August 8, 2018August 8, 2018

I was in Belgium and it was my first time in Europe. Here I was, making my way up the escalator to a room full of women waiting to hear my keynote address. It was amazing to think I was halfway across the world to address a group of high-powered professional women from not just a different country, but a different continent. Suddenly, I was filled with doubt. What if what I had to say wasn’t “enough?” In the U.S., I was known as an experienced speaker who has garnered an impressive number of awards for my communications work, but here…? Surely I couldn’t be doubting myself now!

Then I took a deep breath and decided to just put my secret weapon to work…you know, the one that both you and I have at the ready in moments of doubt. Our authentic self.

Back in the U.S., people usually embrace me or write me off for my optimism, enthusiasm and ability to turn my dreams into reality. Those who embrace me become my friends and colleagues and together we share wonderful adventures and opportunities. Those who do not usually part ways with me.

Years ago, I was given the advice by someone that I should keep all my enthusiasm and passion tucked away so that I could be all things to all people. The whole idea seemed incredibly ingenuous. Why couldn’t I be myself and show my passion for what I did? Then, a trusted mentor of mine confirmed my feelings and told me not to change a thing. I was who I was and that made me unique. Letting my passion show let people know I cared and people needed to know that. If they didn’t like it, I probably wouldn’t do well working with them.

So there, for that international audience, I took those words to heart. I was my vibrant, upbeat, driven, authentic self, set on motivating others in the audience like me to take a chance on their dreams and to never say die.

The international experience was incredible and because of it, I came to some unique conclusions.

Authenticity is Fashionable All Over the World.

In Belgium, on that day, I felt embraced. I wore my authentic self well and my audience approved. I’m convinced that you can never go wrong being your authentic self whether you’re in America, Europe or the North Pole.

Inspiration and Vulnerability Transcends Barriers.

The plain truth is that we are more alike than we are different. No matter where we are from we look for inspiration and we respond to the vulnerability of the exposed authentic self. It’s hard to be the one showing the vulnerability but if you do it, people will respond.

Visionaries Need a Protective Space.

As wonderful as it was to be among my new friends, it was just as wonderful to return to the cocoon of meditation and rest to recharge my energy for the next day. It’s here that I can commune with my authentic self so it’s ready to be unleashed at the next opportunity. It’s here I learn more about who I am and what I care about most.

Far and wide, know that your authentic self is a welcome guest at any party. I’ll be back “across the pond” for another upcoming speaking engagement in Amsterdam and in 2019, a book launch for the first European edition of Today’s Inspired Latina. I’m excited for the future and know wherever I go, as long as I pack my authentic self, I’ll have everything I need to get the job done.

Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of eleven books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.

If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.