Wake up every morning with Passion and Purpose

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THE QUANTUM COMPASS- ARTSHINE TM

OPIC SYSTEM

In any business there are always systems in place... Systems for making sales. Systems to communicate. Systems manage day to day tasks.

Have a look around. We’re surrounded by systems.

Traffic lights for example are a system of control using red, amber, and green lights to manage traffic.

One of the key systems we’re very focused on here at Quantum Compass is your Daily Activity Planner.

Imagine how much you’ll achieve when you get out of bed every morning already knowing what your purpose is, and what the focus of your day will be.

Imagine how your business income will change, and how much more freedom you’ll have to design and create when you're clear about what needs to be achieved.

In the Quantum Compass ArtSHINE program we encourage our clients to focus on these three key areas:

1. Working on your design practice:

“Promoting” you and your design practice. Invest your time to increase your presence and building your brand. Consider things like your marketing, networking, updating your website, and regularly posting new blogs. Find the opportunities to grow your design practice.

2. Working in your design practice:

“Creating” and producing in your design practice. Working in your practice you’re focusing on the routine day to day tasks like production, designing your new ranges, selling and following up with customers & suppliers.This is the work that never stops. And by only focusing on this type of activity your business income will never move forward in the ways that you want and deserve.

3. Working above your design practice:

“Renewing” yourself and refreshing your design practice. It’s critical for your long term success that you plan ahead and ensure that you’ve always time for the important things in life; family, friends, relationships, and the one most of us forget... ourselves. Spend some time every day planning ahead and focusing on your desires and dreams. This is where you focus on the process of creating your business lifestyle exactly as you want it to be.

Think about how you allocate time for each of these key areas and how you set up systems for both action and review.

Once you have some time allocated then the next step is to plan your activities into Quarterly, Monthly, Weekly and Daily tasks.

Remember that by breaking down your goals into small chunks your Desire, Passion, and Purpose will be easier to achieve.

Then you will wake up each day knowing exactly you need to focus on each day.

Are you ready to take the next steps in creating the business lifestyle & design practice of your dreams? It’s as simple as 1... 2... 3...

1. Like  ArtSHINE's Facebook page

   

2. Send an e-mail to this Quantum Compass address: DailyActivityPlanner@QuantumCompass.com.au and receive a free e-book that teaches you the steps to creating the systems you need to succeed.

3. Contact Vinh for a no cost, no obligation coaching session: http://www.quantumcompass.com.au/free-coaching.php

Creating your Business LifeStyle – Follow your Desire, Passion & Purpose

Forget the idea of ‘Work/Life Balance’

For us here at ArtShine the ideas underpinning work/life balance can lead you to the conclusion that our lives are something to be divided in half. Split into two unrelated, disconnected, and ultimately conflicting pieces.

“My ‘work’ is something I have to do” people say. “Some thing that just brings me money.”

“My ‘life’ is where I’m happiest, and where I want to be. But I don’t really have a life” people say, “because I’m too busy with work!”

Sound familiar?

And in this zero sum game that is work/life balance you’re always left feeling that the balance is wrong. That your priorities are in the wrong place. That somehow you can perfectly balance that teeter-totter and create that perfect balance in your life.

It’s a dangerous dangerous time in the post-GFC world right now.

In an era of downsizing, cost-cutting, and ‘operational efficiencies’ a large group of people feel insecure in their corporate roles.

The company you work for is seeking to cut costs. Are you a target?

If you’ve decided that you’ve had had enough of being a corporate animal and that you’re ready to trade in your career for self employment in your own small business, then let us show you how to create a Business LifeStyle using the concept of a “Portfolio life”.

In the book The Age of Unreason, first published in 1989, business guru Charles Handy coined the phrase Portfolio Life. Handy explains the concept thus: “a portfolio of activities – some we do for money, some for interest, some for pleasure, some for a cause… the different bits fit together to form a balanced whole greater than the parts”.

Let’s look at Vinh and I to illustrate the point. We’ve owned an operated a range of businesses over the last decade or so. And moved in and out of more corporate roles as start-up cycles and cash flows demanded.
As various new ventures have commenced we’ve worked “5 to 9″ (rather than “9 to 5″) as the new business gains it’s footing.

Vinh Van Lam, for instance, Spends a percentage of every month working with Quantum Compass, a boutique Business LifeStyle coaching practice based in Sydney Australia. Vinh also heads up the ArtShine project team at Quantum Compass which specialises in working with creative professionals, and the Quantum Compass group’s joint venture with Launch Initiative Fashion.

This directly links to his volunteer work mentoring artisans and creative crafts-people. This connects with some consulting work (Business Development and Licensing) that Vinh does with established designers. As well as sourcing, importing & wholesaling for further cash-flow. And of course you’ll see him around Australia presenting at various exhibitions and craft shows.

It sounds ‘busy’ – but the difference is that this Business LifeStyle is ultimately sustainable, and eminently enjoyable, simply because all the activities (both income generating and not) derive directly from Vinh’s DPP – Desire, Passions, and Purpose. There’s no false dichotomy, no split between what’s ‘enjoyable’, and what’s ‘work’.

See the difference?

Here at ArtSHINE we’d argue that a portfolio life offers you the very real opportunity create a sustainable Business LifeStyle and the chance to ultimately lead a more fulfilling and prosperous life.
It’s certainly your opportunity to pursue interests and passions that would otherwise be shut out by a more conventional career.

ArtSHINE is here to offer you plenty of information and advice about how to create your portfolio life.

We suggest that the ideal Business LifeStyle needs to spread the cash-flow risk with a series of customers or sources of cash-flow, but at least one regular, reliable source of ongoing income.

For our clients we work towards residual incomes as this source of regular, reliable cash flow.

“Business LifeStyle is about finding your passions and purpose”, Vinh says. “Follow your desires to concentrate on what you enjoy most. Avoid working just because there’s a pay cheque, and make sure the jobs fit into your own picture of your life.” he says.

Now we’re here to let you know that these strategies aren’t just for executives and high flyers… the people who can dictate terms and control their own time.

There’s some very real strategies for every-day employees and average wage earners too.

With ArSHINE programmes there’s plenty of scope for people to achieve a smooth transition from full-time work to self employment and small business ownership.

We acknowledge that this idea of Business LifeStyle isn’t for everyone. And moving through the transition phase is hard work and challenging. It’s quite likely that incomes may change when you first leave your set career. That’s why it’s best to plan the transition to occur over time as your lifestyle business takes off. But the initial income trade off is more than compensated by your increased independence and the new control you gain over your own life.

And there is a very real difference between the cash flow a person needs to live comfortably versus the income a person may want to indulge in an unsustainable consumerist lifestyle.

So; with desire, passion, and purpose. Together with planning and determination, the portfolio life, offers a business lifestyle of independence and fulfilment.

Time for a change?

Creating your “Bio” or “Profile”

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One of the first and one of the most important promotional tools in your toolkit is the “profile”, or “personal biography”.

You’ll be amazed with the real results a well worded and credible biography can generate for you. And a well structured biography or profile can enable a genuine connection between you and your audience too.

That’s because there are some things about you that it’s very important that every prospective client knows. So when you start to prepare your own bio; and write about “YOU”, you’ll discover that you have many life skills and experiences that are valid and relevant to your audience. 

And perhaps your story about your own passions and purpose will even inspire your audience too.

Here is a list of things you might consider including in your biography:

• Your DPP (Desire, Passion & Purpose) and what you love doing.
• Specifically what you bring to your audience, and everything unique about you (your “Quirks”).
• All your relevant successes (career, awards, businesses, exhibitions, and designs).
• All your relevant training (design courses, diplomas, qualifications, degrees or certificates that are relevant or show your accomplishments. And don’t discount and ignore on-the-job training, work experience training, etc either).
• Membership of any relevant associations (Chambers of Commerce, Networking groups, etc).
• Positions on industry committees, etc.
• Charity groups that you support.

Remember... Keep it simple.

Two or three paragraphs should be more than sufficient.

Because you’re keeping it short, every word needs to be relevant, interesting and engaging.

Two or three powerful lines are much better than a full page of waffle.

Are you ready to create your own Profile?

It’s as simple as 1... 2... 3...

1: Like  ArtSHINE's Facebook page

2: Send an e-mail to this Quantum Compass address:FreeBioBook@QuantumCompass.com.au and receive a free e-book that teaches you the steps to creating your own artists’ bio.

3: Contact Vinh for a no cost, no obligation coaching session. : www.quantumcompass.com.au/free-coaching.php

My clients are my inspirations!

Here is a few of my art work that I've done 23 years ago.
I was so inspired by all the artists and designers that I have the opportunity to work with. So thank you to all. You are my inspirations!.

"Still Life" drawing of agave plant  (1986)

"Still Life" drawing of water plant in a jar (1986)

Organic Drift wood from the sea (1986)

Portrait of  my  niece Susan (1986)

Nelson Bay NSW Australia (1986)

Quantum Compass ArtShine collaborates with Launch Initiative

Launch Initiative & Quantum Compass Artshine is proud to be bringing you a monthly webinar series focusing on starting & making the most of your fashion career.
Each month we will be providing regular tips, hints and information about the business side of fashion and design through the newsletter.
 
In addition to the regular newsletter spot bringing you inspiration and information about how you can create the business lifestyle your dreaming of, we’ll also be inviting all the Designer Members to join us in our monthly online Webinars. In these monthly sessions we’ll introduce you to the concepts that will change the way you approach your design practice. We’ll bring you real world knowledge, and experienced mentors.
Quantum Compass is a world renowned 'Business Lifestyle' coaching service, which runs courses to help owners to define their business and design their lives. Based in Sydney, Australia Quantum Compass was formed by Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex.

"We see Launch Initiative as having established itself as prime industry resource by offering 100% financial support in the manufacture and distribution process for new designers. So, as part or our ArtSHINE project here at Quantum Compass we've formed a joint venture with Launch Initiative to provide members with a range of coaching, mentoring and Webinar services" founding partner of Quantum Compass, Vinh Van Lam says.

Here are the links to the You Tube Video:
Launch Webinar Series Promotion

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtBRGAb391I
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEHgsFj_8G0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltcO8o8irgc


Interview with Emma Fong  the winner of Sleepwear Competition
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtiWz3W


About Launch Initiative
Everyone knows it's a long, hard road to the top of the fashion industry. Saturated with labels and designers, it's almost impossible to get your foot in the door. Many talented designers don't even know where to start. Launch Initiative Fashion gives aspiring designers the opportunity to 'launch' their fashion career. Whether it be a solo venture to establish a new label or work within an existing fashion house, we are here to help you.

Think of a real life blown up version of Project Runway.

This is a new concept in fashion that is going to change the course of the industry forever.
How Does It Work?

If you think you have design talent or creative flair, simply sign up, log-on and submit your designs based around a brief created by Launch Initiative Fashion.

It really is that simple.
You do the designing. They do the rest.
The designs then go onto the website where other Members can view and vote on which designs they think are the best.

The designs with the most votes win.
What Do You Win?

The reward for winning? Launch Initiative will manufacture your design and distribute it for sale to top retail outlets, complete with your name on the label.

The designer remains in complete control of their design and receives a 10% royalty from the sale of their product - just like a professional designer.
You get all this and more for the small price of a Designer Membership.

You can submit as many designs as you like to increase your chances of winning.

There are no catches and no deep, dark holes to fall in to. Launch Initiative Fashion is simply here to collaborate with aspiring designers and create the stuff dreams are made of.

Sounds too good to be true, doesn't it?

Well the icing on the cake would have to be that everything is 100% Australian made and owned.

Launch Initiative fully supports and encourages the public to become interactive within the Launch Initiative Fashion community and hosts heaps of extras where Members can help each other to succeed in the industry.

This initiative has attracted plenty of attention from industry personalities because quite simply, Launch Initiative Fashion is the best opportunity available to young and passionate designers.

There are limited positions in the initiative, so sign up today to 'launch' your career as a fashion designer.
here is the link:


http://www.launchin.net/main/?c=membership&membership_task=register

The Interwoven Close Up with Jewellery designer- Karen Davidson

 Karen Davidson

     K Tribe Jewellery Copyright

Exhibition

17-30 June

Gaffa Gallery, Sydney

K Tribe Jewellery

Tell us a little about yourself and what you do.

I am a jewellery designer with a passion for colour and tribal cultures. I love sourcing unusual and interesting handicrafts from around the world and adding my own touches.

Who (or what) inspires you to do what you love in your own creative business?

My aversion to the mundane and my love of interesting fashion and jewellery. 

K Tribe Jewellery Copyright

Where do you get your inspiration from when you design/paint?

Tribal Cultures and travel. Finding designs that have history and meaning. 

 Karen & Berber Man

K Tribe Jewellery Copyright

What are the five words that people who know you would use to describe you?

Spirited,Generous,Brave,Passionate and Sincere

Tell us about your very first job and what path have you taken since then?

My first job was at a fashion Dept store in Newcastle. I dabbled with fashion for awhile and then took off overseas for 5 years where I studied acting. I then came back and studied Makeup and special effects, textile Design and silver making courses. I have worked as a freelancer in Television as a Makeup Artist for 15 years. …I started my jewellery collection about 5 years ago and I now balance the two jobs.

Describe a typical day in your studio space?

There no typical day ! Every day is different .

As a Solo Artist, what is your biggest frustration?

Having to put on a business hat and work that side of the brain as well!

Tell us about how you prioritise your studio work.

I try and set goals for the week…which quite often go out the window .

When did you discover that you can make a living out of your artwork?

Charmed Pendant 

 K Tribe Jewellery Copyright

When I started freelancing as a makeup Artist in television. I realised if you were good at something there is always a market.

Can you please tell us about how do you connect with other artists, and your customers (i.e. how do you network)?

I network through my friends, my colleagues, my website, and social networking sites.

What advice can you offer other creative people who are just starting out and following their passions?

Stay true to yourself. FOCUS…and know why you are doing it…..and hang on tight. ..I pretend that K-tribe is my child and even though sometimes you want to walk away from it when it all gets too much you can’t!!

How did you get involve with The Interwoven exhibition and why?

My friend Phillipa who I studied textile designs with many years ago and have also travelled overseas with on many occasions.

What dreams do you still want to achieve or fulfil in your life?

To keep travelling and to keep adding to my collection. …and to one day have someone do the business side to all of this so I can keep sourcing, designing and travelling and let someone else worry about the other stuff!

What is your proudest moment so far?

When my customers call me to tell me that they get stopped in the street to ask them where they got their jewellery from. It makes them feel special.

Who do you most want to meet and why?

I would like to meet myself in ten years…but NOW…so I know I am on the right track

What is the most important lesson in life that you have learned?

To listen to your dreams and don’t give in to fear and self doubt.

What book are you reading right now, and do you have a book you would like to recommend?

Reading The Lacuna…Barbara Kingsolver. ….recommend The Post Birthday world Lionel Schriver .. I do love a sliding door scenario…makes you know there are no right or wrong paths just different outcomes.

Where do we find you and your artworks?

http://www.ktribe.com.au/

Mon Petit Chou Potts Point

The Collector Store Surry Hills

Lotus Accessories Perth

Wax Jambu Banglalow

Setting your goals for 2010

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"Make Tomorrow Today" TM

“Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed

is more important than any other one thing.”

                                                                         - Abraham Lincoln

With the start of this new year at the end of the first decade of the century, now’s probably the best time to be thinking seriously about where you are on your journey, and to re-assess where you want to be.

This is our quick guide to setting some goals for yourself. Detailed goals that are realistic and achievable. Goals that, while specific and measured, are still exciting and inspirational.

Here at Quantum Compass we work with our clients on what we call the “OPIC” system.

OPIC stands for:  Objective, Planning, Implementation, Commitment

Now let’s look at each point starting with your objectives...

Think about what you want to achieve, what area you want to focus on. There are all sorts of things that you could focus on; personal goals, or business goals. 

Get very specific with your objectives. Be very clear on what it is that you want. Visualise what is is that you’re aiming for. And remember to write you goals in the present tense as if you have already achieve it too.

The next step in this process is the planning step.

Think about all the steps you need to take to make your goals a reality. Again, it’s about being specific. What resources will you need, and how will you best use them?

Write each action step in sequential order.

If your goal is broad, make sure you break down the task into small little steps.

Implementation.This section where you can plan to delegate too. Look at your objectives and your plans. As you roll out those plans and start taking action, think about what you could be delegating to others to be doing for you.

It’s in this step that there’s a real opportunity to create new ways of doing. To create new systems.

Remember to always have measurable validation points at this stage. 

“Setting goals is not the main thing.

It's deciding how you'll go about achieving them and staying with that plan.”

- Tom Landry.

Finally, without commitment nothing will really happen. You can write as many goals as you like. You can have all the action plans, and have all the measurable validation points as you like. But you’ll never succeed in your goals without committment.

Commitment is about firming your mind and launching yourself towards your goals with no hesitation or fear. It’s about making the decision that nothing will stop you or hold you back. It’s about deciding that every road-block or obstacle in your path is merely another step towards your objective.

With a commitment from your heart, together with your dedicated actions towards your objectives you’ll find your dreams, your passion, and your purpose.

Want to learn more about goals and action planing the Quantum Compass way? 

It’s as simple as 1... 2... 3...

1: Like  ArtSHINE's Facebook page

2: Come along to the next “Goal Setting” workshop. E-mail Quantum Compass (insert link: GoalSetting@QuantumCompass.com.au ) for details of the next half day session near you.

3: Contact Vinh for a no cost, no obligation coaching session. www.quantumcompass.com.au/free-coaching.php