Badass Business Women

We've Moved the Blog

2011-02-21T05:18:00.000-08:00

Thanks for visiting! In December we moved the blog over to a new location: http://www.badassbusinesswomen.org/blog/

There you'll see the newest tips, photos, announcements and members only invitations.

Come on over!

Free Webinar Tomorrow "Becoming Badass Online"

2010-12-14T07:19:00.000-08:00

Do you want to know how to be taller, skinnier, sexier and more charming online than in person? When you Google yourself, what comes up? Do you have a super badass reputation online, or a lame reputation that has you just blend in with your competitors?

It tomorrow's webinar for the Internet Marketing Club I'll teach the behind the scene tricks I've used to give myself a larger than life Internet presence. My online reputation is impressive, and yours can be too if you apply these lessons.

We'll discuss:
- How to be taller, skinnier and sexier online than in person
- Researching and monitoring your current reputation
- Defining your badass edge
- Attracting attention in a crowded market place
- Authentically providing value to seduce your prospects
- Why "bigger" is better

Wednesday, December 15 @ 12:30pm-1:30pm EST
Go here and register now before space runs out:
http://bit.ly/BecomingBadass

Faking Orgasms

2010-12-09T20:30:00.000-08:00

I used to fake orgasms. All the time.

The bedroom is not the only place we do it. We do it in our business too. Sometimes it's awkward to look into someone's eyes and tell them that you're not fully satisfied. Often it's easier to be inauthentic and pretend that you are.

Are you clear about what you like when it comes to business relationships?
Do you have the courage to ask for what want?
Do you tell people how they can best serve you?
Do you derive immense pleasure in your work environment?
Or...are you just faking it?

Here's my invitation: Tell people how they can tap into your badass strengths and passions. Tell people how they can support you in being more efficient. Tell people how they can make you feel like a valued part of the team. Tell people how you'd like to be treated when things get stressful at work.

Once you take a deep breath and express your desires, you can actually create incredible chemistry with the people you work with. Imagine an environment where the interactions with your partners, vendors, boss and/or employees brought you tremendous pleasure and put an orgasmic smile on your face.

Don't you prefer a real orgasm over a fake one, anyways? ;)

"I'll do it later"

2010-12-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

*NOTE: Last chance to apply for Badass Mastermind*

Listen...you may be interested in the Badass Mastermind, or you may not be interested. That's not the point. This isn't about the mastermind. It's about the URGENCY with which you live your life.

How often do these phrases come out of your mouth?

"I'll do it later."
"I'll do it when I have the money."
"I'll do it when I'm ready."

I know many people who claim they want big things. But they are standing in the same exact place they were three years ago. Why? Because they say things all the time like, "I'll do it later." "I'll do it when I have the money." "I'll do it when I'm ready."

Are you one of those people?

It's not wrong or bad to stand in the same place for three years. However, some of us have too much inside us to stand still. We dream. We aspire. We crave movement. We thirst for accomplishment.

Sometimes I wish I could sit still and meditate and be happy exactly where I'm at. But I can't. It's not in my DNA. When I'm not placing one foot after another on my way to bigger things, I'm miserable. I can't look at myself in the mirror. I've learned to push through my own fear and hesitation because I know that I'm only truly at peace when I'm moving forward.

Call it entrepreneurial spirit. Call it the American dream. Call it badass. Whatever it is, I'm proud of it and I'm proud of myself when I quiet those little voices in my head that say, "I'm not ready. I'll do it later."

The application process for the Badass Mastermind closes tonight. I invite you to live your life with URGENCY, and apply now: http://badassbusinesswomen.org/test/mastermind/

The Biggest Mistake I've Made

2010-12-06T16:33:00.000-08:00

For those of you who've already applied for the Dec 17-18 Badass Mastermind, you know that one of the questions on the application is: "If someone gave you $100,000 on condition that it be used only to grow your business, how would you invest that money?"

Why do I ask that?

The biggest mistake I've made in my 7 years of being self-employed is wasting money on expenses that don't directly contribute to bringing in more business at higher margins. I can't count the number of times I've charged something to my credit card without a clear plan for how it would increase revenue.

The women who have already applied for my mastermind are going to invest $1,000 and 2 days of their life with me. But do they have a plan for how they can directly turn that around into income? How will they leverage the experience? Will they publicize their acceptance into the program? Can they turn a $1,000 investment into at least $10,000 worth of opportunities?

Because that's what badass entrepreneurs would do.

The application process ends tomorrow night at midnight.
Apply here: http://badassbusinesswomen.org/test/mastermind/

"Why Bigger is Better" (The AWA Show)

2010-12-02T11:09:00.001-08:00

Jessica Kizorek appears on the AWA Show to talk about why she started Badass, and why having BIG BOLD AUDACIOUS dreams attract people who want to help you fulfill them.

Spending vs. Investing

2010-11-30T13:14:00.000-08:00

Most of us are now in full scale holiday mode, busy buying gifts and getting more distracted by the moment by family, friends and travel plans. Black Friday. Cyber Monday. For the next month money will fly out the door on travel, food, booze, movies, entertainment, toys, clothes, etc.

So are you simply spending money this season?
Or are you investing in yourself?

All of the Badass Business Women I know have invested a great deal of money into themselves. They buy memberships, attend conferences, take courses, read books and hire professionals to help them grow. They don't just throw money out the window. They diligently access their challenges and weaknesses, then find ways to train and develop themselves. Badass Business Women identify the gap, then they find a way to bridge it.

The 2-day Badass Mastermind on December 17-18 at my house in Miami is designed to catapult you towards the next level in your business. Are you ready to invest in yourself? Or will you be lazy when it comes to bridging the gap?

APPLY HERE: http://badassbusinesswomen.org/test/mastermind/

Apply Now for Badass Mastermind

2010-11-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

I have just written “Badass Business Women: The Manifesto.” The release is scheduled for my 30th birthday on November 29, 2010.

It’s one thing to write a book. It’s another thing to bring it to life for people. So, I’ve designed a real live event that will take place in my living room in Miami. I will facilitate it. We will have only 11 participants. (I already gave away the 11th seat as a scholarship). There will be cameo appearances of my favorite mentors and business women I admire. It will knock your socks off.

Two days.
Eighteen hours.
Thinking bigger than you’ve ever thought before.
Dreaming more vividly than you’ve ever dreamt before.
Being more strategic.
Planning more aggressively.
Stepping up taller.
Becoming more vocal.
Defining yourself more clearly.
Knowing what you’re really worth (and how to get it) FINALLY.

Click here for more details, dates, and application:
http://badassbusinesswomen.org/test/mastermind/

Don't Waste Tomorrow

2010-11-24T13:49:00.001-08:00

Most of us are spending Thanksgiving with close friends and family.

You could talk about the same old stuff, and have another fat and lazy Thanksgiving that will be like the last ten Thanksgivings.

Or, you could bring your badass out. You could go out on the skinny branches and talk about your REAL goals. The new business you want to start, the new clients you want to chase, or the raise you want to ask for. You could tell them you plan to apply for my 2-day Badass Mastermind that will catapult you in the direction of your dreams.

It's risky. Your friends and family might ridicule you for being a crazy dreamer. They might laugh at you. Scary stuff.

Don't waste the opportunity of tomorrow. Get your friends and family behind you. You won't inch closer to those big goals until you're willing to open your mouth and say them out loud.

The Mastermind

2010-11-23T14:25:00.001-08:00

At the Summit I leaked information regarding a Mastermind I have been designing behind the scenes. It's meant to bring the experience of my new book to life for people.

For ten days I've been fielding emails from members asking me for how they can sign up. As I mentioned, it's an application only program where I will select only 10 people to spend 2 days with me at my home in Miami.

I will release full information about this event and open the application process on Friday, November 26th. I'll make sure to send you an email with full details and instructions on whether you qualify to participate.

The Diamond Necklace

2010-11-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

"Badass is a State of Mind" from Jessica Kizorek on Vimeo.

At the Empowered Woman Summit in Miami last week I talked about the diamond necklace. For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about and want to watch the full unabridged keynote speech, I just posted it here. (FYI-The Summit was AWESOME and props to Michelle Villalobos for making it such a success!)

A real badass knows where she's at, and where she wants to be. A real badass takes the time to distinguish "the gap," and what life will look like on the other side. I'm not talking about woo-woo manifestation tactics. I'm not talking about The Secret. I'm not talking about a vision board that you meditate on. I'm not talking about hope. I'm talking about real deal goal setting and action planning.

A real badass gets hungry hungry hungry to bridge the gap. She surrounds herself with other badasses who will hold her feet to the fire and help her bridge that gap. She trains herself, reads voraciously, befriends influential people, and makes one unreasonable request after another.

Where are you now?
Where do you want to be in three years?

Do you even know? What's your plan to get there?

PS - Stay tuned for the November 29th book release and information regarding the 10 person application-only mastermind.

I used to get sick

2010-11-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

I used to run myself down like a 747 commercial aircraft hitting the ground in flames. When I'm running running running and pushing pushing pushing to my badass limits, scheduling time to recover and rest is what keeps me healthy and able a bigger badass each week.

Invite Criticism

2010-11-08T17:47:00.000-08:00

It's easy to shy away from criticism.
It's easy when people agree with you.
It's easy to play it safe and only do what you're already good at.

It takes true badass spirit to invite critique. In fact, on one of my projects I pay someone $6,000 each month to point out every occasion where I drop a ball or do something inadequately. I've hired her because she knows more than I do, has more experience in designing/launching a new brand, and is willing to butt heads with me whenever she sees a better way.

Why do I pay someone $6,000/month to challenge me?

Because I want to learn.
Because I strive to be better.
Because I respect my client too much. They deserve flawless execution.

It's not easy, and it often stings.
Are you badass enough to invite criticism?

Wake Up

2010-11-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those moments where you're so intent on getting stuff done that you forget what you're doing and why? Wake up today. Why are you doing what you're doing?

Your Business Card is Invisible

2010-11-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

It's so easy to follow the pack. To put your head down and do what everyone else is doing.

Chances are your business card is flat, 2" x 3.5" and it lists your name, email & phone. Why do I know that? Because that's how everybody does it.

Wake up. Stop blending in. Start thinking about who you really are and what makes you unique. What is the story you tell about yourself? How do you tell it? Be a badass and stand out from the crowd.

Wanna see how I did it?

Small Change

2010-11-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

Malcolm Gladwell wrote an article for the New Yorker last month asserting that "It [social media] makes it easier for activists to express themselves, and harder for that expression to have any impact." So the question now becomes, what do social networks really accomplish? And how can we leverage them for real impact?

Badass state of mind?

2010-10-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

Are you in a badass state of mind right now?
Did you wake up this morning feeling like a badass?
Why or why not?

On November 11-12 I'm the keynote speaker at the Empowered Woman Success Summit in Miami. (If you haven't registered already get your tickets today! They are only $35 for a full day packed with content and networking opportunities)**

My speech is called "Badass is a State of Mind."

When I'm in a badass state of mind I'm clear, focused, productive and daring. I'm thinking big, taking risks, and willing to go out on the skinny branches. I'm breathing deep and hearing my own heart beat. I'm awake and filled with life.

We all want to be a bigger badass more often. What's your trick to consistently being in that frame of mind?

**I'm making myself available for six 20-minute private coaching sessions at the Summit on Nov 11/12 for Badass members that buy the $35 VIP entrance to the conference. Forward me your VIP registration via email immediately for a chance to sit down with me personally.

Do You Belong Here?

2010-10-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take a moment to welcome all of our new members that have joined us following Cindy Goodman's productivity article, which syndicated all across the country. Welcome!

As our movement grows, I'm finding that people are here for different reasons. Some people are here for practical business tips, in which case you might be better off following people like Nell Merlino, Michelle Villalobos or the National Association of Women Business Owners.

Badass Business Women is coming together as a movement that is defining what it is to be a badass in the business environment. It's an authentic look at the ups and downs, the victories and the challenges of chasing after business goals you have no idea how to reach.

It's authentic, raw, and personal from a girl who thinks she can change the world. It's not for everyone. There is an "unsubscribe" link down at the bottom of each email if what I'm saying isn't for you.

A TIP: Part of your business plan should involve getting real clear about who your ideal customer is. Businesses that tighten their focus on a particular niche market are often far more successful than those that try and please everyone.

This year I've collected hundreds of emails from Badass Business Women across the country who are inspired and moved to tears by what I'm saying.

These emails are for you.

Paralyzed

2010-10-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

Every day I receive a series of emails notifying me that new members have signed up to be a Badass Business Woman.

Whereas I should be celebrating, the past few weeks I have become more and more paralyzed by fear.

Fear that what I'm saying isn't really that important.
Fear that I don't really know what I'm talking about.
Fear that the real heroes for professional women (like Nell Merlino who I'm hanging out with down here in Mexico) will scoff at my silly little group.

And so I hold back. I write posts that I never publish. I second guess myself. Part of being a badass is admitting when you're scared so that the fear doesn't consume you in silence.

What do YOU fear? Where are you holding back?

I have proof.

2010-10-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago my face was on the cover of the Miami Herald business section.

That day I wrote a blog post named "Who's Next?" I asked each one of you if you were going to be the next Badass Business Woman to be featured on the cover of the Miami Herald.

This movement is working. I have proof: Today two more members of Badass Business Women, Susan Cromer Garcia and Stephanie Tisch, were quoted in the cover story of the Miami Herald.

Want to know why? They have been generous. They have spent hours upon hours working with me to build this community. They share my vision for one million women unleashing their inner badass and have poured their heart and soul into helping me inspire you.

Being a Badass Business Woman is about asking the people around you, "How can I help you achieve your goals?"

That's what gets you on the cover of the Miami Herald.

My biggest Rival, Michelle Villalobos

2010-10-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

First off - Are you registered for the Empowered Women Success Summit on Nov 11&12? The keynote speech is called "Badass is a State of Mind" Register HERE.

Here's a blog Michelle Villalobos just wrote...it inspired me to shoot that video.

These are pictures of me with founder of badassbusinesswomen.org, Jessica Kizorek. Jessica is a keynote speaker, a consultant and a marketing strategist, among other things. In other words, she’s my competition – or at least most people would THINK she is.

Actually, we’ve been working together a lot – she was the keynote speaker at my Empowered Woman Success Summit in June, and will be again this November (http://www.EmpoweredWoman.info). We also created two amazing workshops: Strut 1.0 and Strut 2.0, and now I’m contributing to her upcoming book “The Official Guide to Being A Badass Business Woman.”

Today at my Mastermind session, when I was talking her up to the group, one of my members observed: “Isn’t she your competition?” Well, kinda sorta but not really.

Once you define your brand well enough, and once your voice is unique enough, competition doesn’t exist. People either want to work with YOU or they want to work with WHOMEVER.

In this case, my leads have only increased as my relationship with Jess has grown. We make such a splash together, that more people are hearing about each of us now than ever.

Not only do I love working with Jessica (I suspect she feels the same way – ’cause she tells me so), but this is a strategic alliance in which each of us brings our strengths to the table.

Jessica with her work ethic, execution-oriented approach and varied, vetted support network of freelancers. And me with my wide and varied audience, corporate contacts and a large Summit (which we think we’ve determined is THE largest all-women business event in Miami – confirmation on that coming soon) that she speaks at as my keynote speaker – thus growing her own network.

Do you have a “rival” that has access to things you don’t? Do you have strengths that she doesn’t? Rather than lament it or feel envy, think about how you could support create opportunities for each other. In other words, find your biggest competitor whose integrity you trust (this is a big piece), and seek her out. Figure out what you can create together!

Let me know how it goes…

Who's Next?

2010-09-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

Victory!!!!

Today a big fat color picture of me and Michelle Villalobos is on the cover of the Miami Herald business section. I’m quoted as the founder of Badass Business Women, and our logo is font and center.

So…Hurray! (And thanks to all of you who have built me up to look like a super star)

HOWEVER…as much as I’m into the personal glory, I’m wondering who’s next.

I didn’t build this community to be the hero. I built it so that YOU can be the hero.

I built it so that you know yourself as the badass who was on the cover of the Miami Herald business section.

To quote Alessandra Lariu, the cofounder of SheSays, “My mission is to get everybody on the same level I am on right now. I want competition.”

So…which one of you Badass Business Women is next?

Behind the Scenes Photo Shoot

2010-09-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Peter from the Miami Herald came to shoot my portrait with Michelle Villalobos for an article Cindy Krischer Goodman is writing for the Business Section of the Herald tomorrow.

Sneak Peek

2010-09-24T06:51:00.001-07:00

If you're looking for a sneak peek into the production of my fifth book, take a look at this. I got inspired today by Cindy Goodwin from the Miami Herald....and spent 5 hours finally laying out the book. (and if I look exhausted it's because I AM)

Man Up

2010-09-23T07:03:00.000-07:00

Man up. Grab your balls. Let's go.

Funny that there is no feminine equivalent. "Grab your ovaries" doesn't have quite the same ring to it.

Masculinity is fierce. Femininity is soft.

But what happens when us women look to be fierce and daring, especially in our careers? I would assert that we actually emulate males, and become more masculine in order to accomplish our goals.

Do you agree?

("Strut 2.0" deals with exactly this issue of how to be fierce and
feminine at the same time. The event is happening at my house in
Miami tomorrow at 7pm-10pm, and if you haven't RSVPed, the guest
list is closed. Email me direct if you RSVPed and haven't gotten
the event details)

Seeing Seth in Chicago

2010-09-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

Whether it's Seth Godin or somebody else...find yourself somebody who inspires you and makes you think big. I spent the day with him in Chicago last week and am enlivened. Who fills up your tank with gas?

Seth Godin's Roadtrip - Chicago from Shu Ling Yong on Vimeo.

Webster's Definition of Badass

2010-09-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

(I think we all agree that #2 is what we're talking about....)

badass- badass |ˈbadˌas| informalnounBadass

a tough, aggressive, or uncooperative person : one of them is a real badass, the other's pretty friendly.

adjective
1 tough or aggressive : a strange fellow with a badass temper.
• particularly bad or severe : some badass virus I'd caught at sea.
2 formidable; excellent : this was one badass camera.

ORIGIN 1950s: from the adjective bad + ass 2 .

Wing It

2010-09-20T09:26:00.001-07:00

There are times when it's best to know what you're doing before you do it. To think it through...To do research...To consult the experts...To sleep on it.

Then there are times when it's best to just wing it.

Patty Soffer is one of the most brilliant people I know. When I came up with the idea of Badass Busines Women in February 2010, she asked, "Why are you in such a hurry? Slow down. Get the message right. Develop the long term strategy." 95% of the time I take Patty's advice, but in this case I didn't.

Why? Because I wanted to show you that winging it can work. That you can have a brilliant idea, throw it out there, and learn as you go. That it's OK to be naive and uncertain and clueless...as long as you're willing to stick your neck out for what you believe in.

Are you willing to "Wing It" this week?

Protecting Yourself

2010-09-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all the sweet advice and positive re-enforcement. That, however, was not why I wrote that email this morning.

Let me try again, cause I really want you to get this.

If you're up to causing big badass stuff, you really have to cultivate safe spaces for yourself. If your ideas are seeds, you must design your life to plant those seeds in fertile soil.

Everyday we are bombarded with emails. Phone calls. Text messages. All of which we REACT to. Requests, criticism, rejection, deadlines, breakdowns. No matter how brilliant, confident, or productive you are, we all have our buttons which, when pushed, cause us to react. That's just the way it is.

Reacting is easier than creating. But when it's time to do something original.... to think or write or CREATE...you have to close the door on anything that will take your attention off of the big badass stuff. You need to intentionally make a bubble to protect yourself from any stimulus that has the power to hijack your mind.

Creating big badass stuff isn't easy. This week I invite you to look at all the things that get in the way of you CREATING...

Hijacked by Email

2010-09-13T08:49:00.001-07:00

On Friday afternoon I was riding high. It was a big, productive week. I was filled with creative energy, and was sitting down to write.

Then I opened my email.

Be careful of email. If you're up to big things, you need to nurture your creativity. You need to intentionally remove not only distractions but also remove triggers that kill your creativity.

Out of the 89 emails that came in on Friday afternoon, I got one email from a reporter that said, "Kindly remove my name from your list." Yes, I shouldn't let that bother me. But it did. In an instant my passion, creativity, vision disappeared. Poof. Gone.

When's the last time you're creative juices have gotten hijacked by emails from clients, vendors, family or your boss? What are you doing to nurture your creativity?

Blew me away...

2010-09-10T11:50:00.000-07:00

The members-only event at my home last week blew me away.

Michelle and I were fabulous. The members who attended were fabulous. The energy was so high you’d need to experience it to believe it.

I started to imagine what it will be like when there are 10,000 Badass Business Woman in one place at one time. The passion, outrageousness and “oomph” of the event will be…indescribable.

I’ve posted the photos (thanks to Tabatha) on our Facebook Fan page…make sure you are tagged! http://www.facebook.com/#!/badassbusinesswomen

**RSVP NOW** The next members-only event, “Strut 2.0” will be on Friday, September 24th. The content will be similar, but not the same, as last week. This too will be a small event with limited capacity, so RSVP before I close the guest list. Send an email to jessicakizorek@gmail.com with your full name, and the names of any guests you’d like to invite.

Keeping your goals a secret?

2010-09-08T08:33:00.001-07:00

Although I disagree, Derek Sivers says it's better to keep goals secret. He shows evidence that people who talk about their ambitions are less likely to achieve them. Watch now >>

A Spiritual Thing

2010-09-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here thinking of what I want to say tonight.

I don't want tonight to be just another business event. Another business card exchange. Another seminar. I want it to give people shivers. To have their heart beat out of their chest. To create ripples that will impact the lives of one million of Badass Business Women.

This isn't a business thing for me. It's a spiritual thing.

Tomorrow night... "Strut"

2010-09-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night, 9/3, is the premier of "Strut."

My initial intention was to have a private gathering of 20 members, but the response has been overwhelming! It's now a full scale wild event....in my little house! It's going to rock!

We had to close registration last week due to size limitations of my home. (Sorry to everybody who I had to turn away!) Due to popular demand we'll be hosting "Strut 2.0" on Friday, September 24th. (7pm-10pm - Location in Miami TBA) You may want to put that date in your calendar now.

Don't Forget!
There is a homework assignment. It's important...Don't blow it off. Arrive with a piece of paper that says "I am a Badass Business Woman because___________" Write at least one sentence. I'm collecting them...I'll tell you why at the event.

Who's coming
In addition to the 70 members that RSVPed, we are expecting several members of the media (Miami Herald & NBC6) as attendees. We will have a photographer and videographer on site. Do your hair, slap on some lipstick, and come ready to STRUT!

What to wear
The event is business casual. Depending on the weather, we might be outside on my patio. Wear something light weight so your not sweating while you strut. :)

What to bring
Bring a bottle of wine. I'm going to serve a few snacks, but I suggest you eat dinner before you arrive. Feel free to bring any food/snacks if you feel moved to do so.

What to expect
"Strut" is edgy and interactive workshop in how to use your body, eyes, voice, and physical contact to be a badass in the professional realm. Jessica Kizorek (www.JessicaKizorek.com) and Michelle Villalobos (www.michellevillalobos.com) will be facilitating the experience. Visually, you'll see business women strutting like runway models, holding their bodies like ballerinas, and using their eyes and voice like opera singers. Business like you've never seen it before!

The theme for the night.... "Know your shit. Own your name. Strut your stuff."

The Homework

2010-08-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

Regardless of whether you're coming to my private gathering in Miami next week, I invite you to do the homework assignment.

THE ASSIGNMENT:
1. Fill in the blank: "I'm a Badass Business Woman because _______"
2. Write it down.
3. Write down at least one sentence. At most one page.

WHY? We are taught not to brag about ourselves. We are taught to be humble, careful, modest, and self-effacing. We tone down our talents to avoid being called "cocky" or "arrogant."

But in fact we are gifted, amazing, accomplished, and passionate...filled with light that we are dying to shine on the world. The homework assignment is designed as a catalyst to make you proud of your badass self!

I did the homework. It wasn't easy. I'll tell you more about it in person next week. We'll be working on it further at the event, but you need to have at least one sentence written down when you walk through the door.

PS - The event is now CLOSED at 67 RSVP due to the capacity of my house.

Nurturing Creativity

2010-08-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

Touchy Feely

2010-08-09T07:22:00.001-07:00

This morning I got an email from one of my favorite Badass Business Women. She told me that I was too touchy feely, and that I made her uncomfortable.

For a moment I was mortified. I wanted to shrink back, to be careful, to check myself. Nobody had ever complained about that before, and was totally embarrassed.

Then I thought back to all the things people have told me in the last 10 years:

You’re too touchy feely.
You’re too domineering.
You’re too loud.
You’re too gay.
You’re too punk rock.
You’re too unprofessional.
You’re too opinionated.
You’re too wild.

I thought back to all the moments I could have beat myself up and shut down my true self-expression to avoid offending people.

Part of being a badass is listening to people, respecting them, and apologizing when appropriate. (And that’s what I did this morning)

But a real badass doesn’t shut down, play safe, or conform to what other people think you should be like.

So will I stop being affectionate? No. That’s who I am. Touchy feely. Domineering. Loud. Gay. Punk rock. Unprofessional. Opinionated. Wild.

And proud of it.

Let Me Win

2010-07-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

"Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."
-The Special Olympics Oath

This week I'm filming the Special Olympics in Lincoln, Nebraska. Right now I'm sitting in a corner editing with noise cancellation headphones on. I'm gazing out onto a room filled with people.

People who have disabilities.
People who volunteer to help them.
People who coach them.
People who love them.

Talk about a movement. In 1968 one woman declared to the world that people with disabilities would be CELEBRATED for their spirit and their abilities. Not tolerated, not stepped on, not dismissed. CELEBRATED.

Thank God for that declaration.

What's your declaration?

"Thrashing"

2010-07-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

Want to know the secret to finishing projects on time and on budget? Let my buddy Seth explain.

Deep deep deep roots

2010-07-14T10:36:00.000-07:00

Our primary goal for the 3 months is BIG national media coverage.

For those of you who are by my side building this tribe to a million members, I request that you do at least one (if not all three) of the following things:

1. Connect me with any journalists you know who would love this story. It's edgy, fun, passionate... and we have a lot to talk about.

2. Give me feedback on the first version of the press release I've pasted below. Just like we did with the philosophy, you helped me write it. I want to know what parts resonate with you, and what needs to be deleted/added.

3. Write about us. Post the parts of the release you like on your blogs, websites, Facebook, etc. We need to build deep deep deep roots for the organization, so when journalists search for Badass Business Women they see YOU talking about it...not just me.

Although far from it's final form, I'm now showing you my first stab at a press release. I'm no expert...many of you know much more about PR & publicity than I do. HELP!

BADASS BUSINESS WOMEN PRESS RELEASE (Take One)

As the United States struggles to emerge from economic heart failure, we need to identify and nurture the talent that will have this country firing on all cylinders. The low-hanging fruit might be in boosting the productivity of the under-developed female workforce.

In the 1950’s, women came out of the woodwork and entered the workforce at a pivotal time when the country needed them most. Now, women represent over 51% of the labor force. Despite great progress, still only 2% of the world’s billionaires are women. (Fact check needed)

There is one particular breed of business women gearing up to fuel the economic engine of the United States. This breed of woman is ambitious, vocal, and clear about her goals.

This breed has a name: Badass Business Women.

“When someone tells me I’m a Badass, it’s the biggest compliment they could give me,” says Jessica Kizorek, founder of BadassBusinessWomen.org. “It means I’m on fire, I’m edgy, I’m making big stuff happen. When a woman is being a badass, her energy is contagious.”

Not all business women are Badass Business Women, according to founding member Marci Alt. “We’re not talking about the timid and mousy type who is standing around waiting for orders. We’re talking about the big-thinkers, the women who are charting out where they want to be in 3 years. Badass Business Women aren’t afraid to ask for what they want, then surround themselves with people who will help them get it.”

Kizorek, 29, is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for teaching and inspiring. As an adjunct professor and author of four books on the Internet and video marketing, Kizorek’s newest goal is to inspire 1 million business women to live up to their inner badass.

The questions Kizorek is raising are especially relevant as unemployment soars and small businesses are failing at an alarming rate. Her goal isn’t just to inspire – she challenges her members to increase their number of clients, hire other badass business women, and increase their overall wealth.

With tremendous conviction, Kizorek believes that the business women in this country are our unsung heroes. “But we don’t relate to them like that or celebrate their uniquely feminine contribution. That’s a big problem,” she says.

“When Madonna walks out on stage, the crowd goes wild. When you walk into your office, are you greeted with fan mail?”

Following Kizorek’s lead, hundreds of powerful women across the country are now cheering each other on, challenging and mentoring one another in today’s male oriented business world.

Though at first glance the movement may be reminiscent of the rebellious anti-male feminist movement, this group’s members are determined to include the men that love and support them in their business endeavors.

Jessica’s 18-year-old cousin, Christopher Kizorek, has been a member since the group’s inception in February 2010. “I think what they are doing is really cool, and I want to spread the word so the women in my life can be a part of this,” says young Chris.

The organization’s philosophy, drafted in April 2010 by the members, states, “Being a Badass Business Woman is not about running stiletto-clad circles around men. It’s about gracefully striding forward in the business world with a radiant strength and confident dexterity that is uniquely female.”

Michelle Villalobos, another founding member, runs seminars teaching women how to communicate more powerfully. Villalobos articulates, “Society teaches women to be polite, sophisticated, and smart. Not vocal, edgy and strong-willed. Our fear of being called a “bitch” plagues us and inhibits our natural self-expression. That’s why learning to be a Badass Business Woman can produce real results in achievement and income level.”

Kizorek’s goal is lofty: She plans to reach one million members and inspire people the way Martin Luther King Jr. did. But what makes such a big goal worthwhile is that slight possibility of success.

Imagine a country where one million business women are unabashedly pouring their heart and soul and vision for the future into the business environment. One million business women in the United States who aren’t standing by to take orders, but creating the future instead. A worthwhile goal indeed.

Gifts

2010-07-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

Last month I received a gift. A friend of mine, Mike Jais, gave me 500 bumper stickers with our logo on them.

To me they are precious. Here’s why…

Last post I showed you my living room and the words I painted on the walls of my home. I told you about what it’s like to wake up every morning and be reminded of how highly people think of me. It makes going out into the world easier…especially on days when I’d rather stay on the couch.

A tip on receiving more gifts in life: ONE: Tell people what you like, and ask for what you want. TWO: Truly and genuinely thank people for giving you what you asked for…over and over and over again.

At this point I’ve stuck 4 bumper stickers on important things. On my car, my guitar case, my front door, and my computer’s hard drive.

The stickers are reminders. Each time you see your sticker, it helps you to remember who you are, what you are up to, and how much genius you have in you. The sticker reminds you to take one more step towards that BIG GOAL.

So stick it. Stick it in a place you’ll see it at least 4 times a day. And SEND ME A PICTURE of you and your sticker. I'm writing a new book, and want your face in the book.... Send the pics it to jessicakizorek@gmail.com

(If you don’t have a free sticker, here are instructions on how to get one: http://badassbusinesswomen.blogspot.com/2010/07/want-free-bumper-sticker.html)

Want a free bumper sticker?

2010-07-09T07:00:00.001-07:00

I've got about 50 bumper stickers I want to give to our members who REALLY want them. So send me a self-addressed envelope with a 42 cent stamp (and your name so I can verify you're a member) to:

Jessica Kizorek
Chief Badass
2001 Biscayne Blvd #117-30
Miami FL 33137

On August 1st, I'll gather all the envelopes, pop a sticker in them, and send them off to you. Then you'll have to send me a picture of you and your sticker for the book!

PS - Know a Badass Business Woman who would love one of our stickers? Tell her to sign up as a member, then follow instructions above.

Being a Badass = Being Successful?

2010-06-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, I asked one of our members why she had never spoken up and contributed to the group by posting on the blog.

She said, "Well...I'm not really a Badass Business Woman. One day I will be. Then I'll post comments on the blog."

I was baffled, and upset. WTF? Why do I think more highly of her than she does of herself? I had to take a deep breath cause I just wanted to shake her!

Being a badass is not synonymous with being successful. I'm not CEO of a Fortune 500 company. I'm not a millionaire. I've never been on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. I can't even afford to buy my own house yet.

Being a badass is about having the guts to open your mouth and say what you really want. It's about going out on a limb and being willing to ask for help. It's about being vulnerable. It's about being MOVED TO TEARS because you're so proud of yourself.

When's the last time you were moved to tears by YOURSELF? Reminded of you you really are? Here's a surefire way to make that happen.

Victory!

2010-06-19T11:12:00.001-07:00

Today there has been a victory among us.

One of our members, Vincena, wrote, "I intend to work for Bacardi, no matter how many of my contacts I have to harass."

All she had to do was write down what she wanted, say it out loud on the blog, and WOW... Magic happened. I happen to know the VP of Communication for Bacardi, and now I'm going to introduce her to Vincena.

Today isn't the first time. Are you asking for what YOU want?

The Real Goals

2010-06-18T13:48:00.001-07:00

When’s the last time you sat down for 45 minutes – uninterrupted - and wrote down your goals? Your professional goals. Your personal goals. Where you want to be 6 months from now. Where you want to be three years from now.

I dare you to do it.

I dare you to have the GUTS to think big. To set goals you have no idea how to accomplish. To push yourself so far out of your comfort zone that you can barely see straight. We are here. Ready to hear what your REAL goals are.

Did you watch the 3 minute video above? When the universe directly spoke to me, on stage, on Friday morning while I was giving that speech? WILD.

PS – For those of you who are on the edge of your seat wondering what the “Treat” is, it’s still in the works. More details coming soon.

Fast Company, Here We Come!

2010-06-18T13:03:00.000-07:00

Where is Your Bumper Sticker?

2010-06-16T12:08:00.001-07:00

You Are In For A Treat

2010-06-12T16:07:00.000-07:00

It comes as no surprise that today, Badass Business Women was featured in the Miami Herald...Miami's biggest newspaper! You were a part of it!!!

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/06/12/1676255/in-search-of-skills-businesswomen.html

For those of you die hard Badass Business Women, I'm conjuring up a gift for you.....

Pay attention this week to every word in my emails. You are in for a treat.

ahhhh... Do I have you wondering???

PS - Congratulations to the winner of the Badass Business Woman Make-Over Contest, Maria Elena Holguin! http://www.mariaelenaholguin.com

Members Unleashed

2010-06-11T18:35:00.001-07:00

Today, I gave my first ever "Unleash Your Inner Badass" speech.

I video taped it, and will send you the link in the near future. In the mean time, you should know that today we have 24 new members. This is what one of them has to say:

(From Nanette)
I just left the Empowered Women Summit Friday session and we were all inspired to be Badass Business Women. Thank you Jessica! Your speech was right on!

Here's what I took away as my new "badass" challenge, and THE thing that will make me a Badass Business Woman:

Don't settle for "ordinary" goals. Dig way down deep and pull out that thing that is your BIGGEST vision, that thing that you can barely bring yourself to describe out loud (let alone describe to someone else), that thing that is SOOOOOO scary, that you can barely imagine the reality... and tell somebody about it, SAY IT OUT LOUD, IN PUBLIC, and keep telling it, and telling it, until it's clear enough to begin to take action on it.

Then confidently step in the direction of your dreams!

I am proud to consider myself a new member of the Badass Business Women Community.

Nanette

I need your advice.

2010-06-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

This Friday I give the first ever "Unleashing Your Inner Badass" keynote speech at the Empowered Woman Summit in Miami. Hundreds of power house women will be in attendance, ready to hear what this Badass thing is all about.

I always get a little nervous when I'm writing a new speech. I want to write something inspiring. Powerful. Something that jolts people into action. And I realized last night that I can't write this thing without your input. The true spirit of Badass Business Women is that it's been created by you. By us. Not by me alone at my kitchen counter.

So - If you could give one piece of advice to women who want to unleash their inner badass...what would it be? Post it here, and make sure to leave your name so I can give you credit.

PS - Some of the most powerful badass women in Miami are organizing and attending this event. And it's FREE. If you're local, register here and cheer me on! The networking will be invaluable (and not some lame business card exchange). http://www.empoweredwoman.info/

Seth Godin’s Nano MBA (The 2 min Version)

2010-06-02T19:39:00.000-07:00

Here's the cliff notes from Seth's Nano MBA.
For those of you who were there, you’re gonna love this.
For those of you who weren’t there, this is what you missed.

The lyrics:

My name is Seth Godin and you have no clue
The 5-day adventure I’ve concocted for you.

For this little secret project I’ve only picked twelve
Big thinking gangstas who are ready to delve

To dig real deep to lean in and to huddle
Cause what I’m about to teach is really quite subtle

You many be a badass, or you may be solo
Doesn’t matter where you come from nomo

You’re gonna make an impact and the world can’t wait
Cause you hang with Obama and Melinda Gates

Listen up now Alan and George and Roxy
You better do something and be sticky like apoxy

Doesn’t matter what you do what you offer what you sell
Beneath it all you need a STORY to tell

It may be mocha club, crappy cards or zocdoc
Just pick a bright idea and make it rock

Don’t focus on tactics the when what and how
Just start off with goals and create a purple cow

You don’t have to convince or be super loud
Just create a little tribe and be real proud

Read my books and develop mad skills
Play real big and be addicted to the thrill

What are you scared of what is your fear
We’re gonna write it all down right now right here

Cause chances are you will hit the dip
But when the day is done, you better ship

The bigger you dream the bigger you fail
But I’m requesting right now you stand and prevail.

The Donkey Named Thunder

2010-06-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

This week I bought a donkey in Burkina for $140. I named it Thunder.

Why?

There's a group of women I met who have joined forces to grow a vegetable garden. They use the proceeds to put each other's kids through school, pay for medical emergencies, and buy stuff like soap and spices...things that their husbands can't afford. They said they needed an work animal so they could dramatically increase the harvest of their farm.

Those women were clear about what they needed. They asked for it.

Are you clear about what you need in your business? Have you ASKED FOR IT?

Because I assert that there are other Badass Business Women out there who would love the opportunity to help you succeed. Chances are you don't need a donkey named Thunder. But what exactly do you need?

Groggy in Africa

2010-05-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

I'm groggy.
I'm exhausted after flying all night and shooting all day.
I get on another plane tomorrow.

But I'm thinking of you.

Being a badass is a spiritual thing. Walking through the central market in Ghana today I spotted a Badass Business Woman. She was eleven years old. She was standing behind her mother in a tiny bead stall in the 95 degree crazy stagnant heat. I was sweating like an Eskimo in Miami and she was calm as a cucumber. I could see the badass in her eyes. I could feel it in her spirit.

I only hope she has other women who stand for her.
Who educate her.
Who believe in her.
Who fight for her greatness.

No Guarantees

2010-05-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

This week I absorbed more information, rules of thumb, and tactics than I thought possible in a 5-day span. However, it wasn't the knowledge that I'm most grateful for. Knowledge is easy to come by.

On Friday morning there was a popularity contest. And I lost the contest - BIG TIME. There's no guarantee that Badass Business Women will amass one million members. There's no guarantee that we'll be on the Ellen DeGeneres show by the end of the year. There's plenty of little tribes out there of 125 members who stagnate and fall apart.

Seth Godin has sent me out like a boxer in the ring and prepared me for every possible way in which I could fail with you guys. I've faced deep into my anxiety, attachment, and fear of not measuring up.

"You need to be addicted to the thrill of being inches away from failure," he said. Only when you enjoy the adrenaline will you have the freedom and tenacity to go after what you really want.

I want to be for YOU what Seth has been for me this week. I want to be your cutman... the one who stands in the corner of the ring, pushing you to go get swung at. Go out in the world. Do something scary. Then sit right down next to me and I'll slobber that Vaseline stuff all over your cuts and get you back out there for the next round.

How does that sound?

Excuses & Justifications

2010-05-19T04:40:00.000-07:00

Each one of us has goals in our head that are so big and overwhelming that we dare not say them out loud for fear of falling short. What's yours?

And if you refuse to answer that question, what excuses do you give yourself for playing within your comfort zone?

How do you justify not declaring your goals, when there are so many resources to support you in fulfilling on them?

Being with Seth Godin this week is pushing me so far out on the skinny branches that I'm shaking in my boots. And that's who I want to be for you. I want Badass Business Women to be a catalyst that pushes you out onto the skinny branches in your job or in your business, then nurtures you as you make that leap.

Seth's Office: Right Before the Cut

2010-05-15T06:32:00.001-07:00

Looking for a Cemetery

2010-05-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago I bought myself a pink florescent pair of Nike running shoes.

Today I tied the laces and headed out for a run on a perfect 75 degree afternoon in New York City. I ran 50 blocks to St. Michael's Cemetery, and when I walked through the gates, the tears started running down my face.

I cried. I cried because I was grateful to be alive. I cried because I was moved by what I’m up to. I cried because I felt the enormity of my calling on this planet. I cried because today I received a tremendous honor, and I don’t take it lightly.

This morning I walked into Seth Godin’s office at 9:12am. For those of you who don’t know Seth, he’s one of my major influences and biggest heroes. He’s written more than a dozen books (such as Purple Cow and Meatball Sunday), many of which have been New York Times Bestsellers.

He’s been on a hunt the last few months to find 11 people who are changing the world. My buddy Stephanie Tisch made me apply, and I was one of 1,700 people who threw their hat in the ring. Last month I was informed that I made the final 22, so here I am in New York.

The 11 “chosen ones” will spend the entire upcoming week with Seth in an intense learning experience. His goal isn’t to teach what can be learned in books. His goal is to confront the fear, hesitation, and barriers in each one of us … hence allowing us to impact humanity in a massive way. He is indoctrinating us, then sending us out into the world to make ripples. Here’s the full story: http://www.squidoo.com/highleverageweek

The other 17 human beings in that room today were magnificent. We all wanted to be chosen, yet the space was free of competition. Each one of us had our own gifts, our own stories, and our own future.

Seth decided he wasn’t going to pick. He was going to have us pick. So we spent 2 hours interviewing others about our past, but more importantly, what we were hungry for. “What’s your biggest fear?” “Why are you here?” “What are you going to cause as a result of this experience?” We then made a list of the people we wanted in the course with us.

Being in the presence of Seth and my peers was one of the most humbling, eye-opening, and adrenaline-filled moments of my life. I wore my Badass Business Woman t-shirt to the interview. You guys were right there with me.

In the end, I was chosen. Seth Godin believes in me. He believes in my power to change the world. And he wants to leverage me.

So….. Here I am. Ready. Hungry. Humble. You know when you really surrender and trust the universe? I’m having one of those moments.

I love you guys. For realz.

J

How to start a movement

2010-04-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

Flaunt Your Badass Self...

2010-03-28T15:12:00.000-07:00

create & buy custom products at Zazzle

What Do We Need?

2010-03-28T13:50:00.001-07:00

Badass Business Women is an idea in process. It isn’t Jessica Kizorek telling everybody how this is going to go. It’s all of us Badasses coming together to do something that’s never been done before.

We want your ideas. We want you to be a part of this as it unfolds.

We want you to acknowledge women for being a badass. We want you to mentor Badass women working up through the ranks.

Successful women are grateful for those who helped them become the success they are. In turn, they are generous with others.

We want you to share this message.
Share what you stand for as a Badass Business Woman.

Where Are We Going?

2010-03-28T13:48:00.000-07:00

This movement is out to revolutionize the way women are viewed in the business environment. We will impact the way we see ourselves, the way we see each other, and the way our male colleagues relate to us.

Being a card-carrying member of Badass Business Women gives us something to be proud of.

We don’t have the “balls” to go after what we want. We have the audacity to invest in our future and surround ourselves with women who pull for us.

We share it with our mother. We empower our daughters to grow into Badass Business Women.

Women have come a long way. But subtle attitudes still keep a lid on our self-expression and potential. This will change.

Where Are We At?

2010-03-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

Our website was launched 8 days after the idea was born.

Part of being a badass is being willing to take action before you have all the answers. Right now we are refining the idea, refining the logo, refining what we have to offer each other.

We started as www.BadAssBusinessWoman.com
We are now www.BadassBusinessWomen.org

The response has been tremendous. Women love this.
This concept is magnetic - it’s sparks something when spoken out loud. Some women are offended at being called a badass. To us, it’s the highest compliment anyone could give us.

It means that we are a power-house. Proud. Sexy. Strong. Daring.

Our Philosophy

2010-03-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

Being a badass is a state of mind, regardless of one’s gender.

Unfortunately, a business woman who is strong-willed, confident and ambitious is too often labeled a “bitch” while our male counterpart is revered as a real “badass.” Being edgy, vocal and having a clear understanding of our goals is not always celebrated in the business environment.

Being a card-carrying Badass Business Woman does not merely announce and unleash your inner badass. We encourage you to cut loose…to go out on a limb…to be unabashedly self-expressed!

We provide you with resources and energy to ignite your passion. Consider us a tribe – coming together, challenging and mentoring one another in today’s (still) male-dominated business world.

We are a movement of women who are proud of our talent and our ambition. As Badass Business Women, we are a force to be reckoned with.

The Art of the Elevator Pitch

2010-03-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

Learning how to best communicate the vision behind Badass Business Woman...Great tips in here.

Tutorial Startup Weekend Pitch

View more presentations from START Vienna.

Eve Ensler: Embrace Your Inner Girl

2010-03-05T11:08:00.000-08:00