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Breaking News

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An example of a breaking news intro graphic
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We interrupt this broadcast...When you hear those words coming from your television screen or radio, it is a signal that something unplanned has interrupted regular programming. In our own lives, an interruption in the normal broadcast is not announced in a soothing voice, it just appears and demands for you to stop and take notice.

This week, I had my own surreal experience with “breaking news” in a good way. I was presented with an opportunity to be interviewed for a story that will air on World News with Diane Sawyer.

Those that are media savvy are prepared for the breakneck speed with which this happens but I am not a media superstar who can think and talk on cue on camera. Yet, somehow I did it.

I have big plans for this year and none of them involved appearing on television yet when opportunity knocked, I answered.  In fact, I am not particularly fond of anything concerning a camera, but I ignored all of my excuses and fears and simply stopped to deal with the breaking news.

This experience has made me realize how often we may ignore opportunity because it knocks at an inconvenient time. I had less than 12 hours notice before spending an entire day in my home office with a reporter. There was no time to get my hair done, shop for new clothes, squeeze in an extra workout. Opportunity does not care if you are perfect, it only needs you to be ready.

My interview is part of a larger business story that is scheduled to air tonight. I will watch (with one eye open) and I guarantee that for the few seconds I am on, I will be anything but perfect.  Whether I look fat or not will be secondary to the celebration of stepping out of my nicely controlled comfort zone and giving in to the unknown.

How about you, when breaking news arrive, will you answer?

Special thanks to Dwann Holmes Olsen and Borders + Gratehouse, true Media and PR Professionals who have graciously mentored, coached and cheered me on. I could never have said “Yes” without them.

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Are You Ready to Get Lucky?

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Push Button For Luck

by Karen D. Swim, Photo credit: kamaru, Flickr.com

Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.–Seneca

The Detroit Pistons made it through 82 regular season games and won a spot in the playoffs. Reserve Guard, Lindsey Hunter had been inactive for most of the season but he too would participate in the playoffs.

Like his teammates Hunter wanted the team to become the 2008 Champs. After all, at 37 this could be his last season. He wanted the ring and they now had an opportunity to go all the way. When the time came, Hunter was ready. Physically and mentally prepared, he sprang into action and energized his team at crucial moments during the series. He showed no sign of rust from lack of playing time, in fact he looked better than most of the starters who had played all season long.

Are you ready for opportunity? If the phone rings today and you are asked to give a presentation for the biggest client you’ve ever landed, are you ready? If offered a chance to exhibit your work, are you ready? If your boss quits and you are suddenly in line for a promotion, are you ready?

Far too often in life, even if we are technically ready, we are not emotionally or mentally ready. We make excuses as to why we cannot seize opportunity when it lands on our doorstep. “I don’t have enough experience.” “Well, I would if…” “I just don’t know if I’m ready for that.” Any of these sound familiar?

“..be prepared in season and out of season..”–II Timothy 4:2, NIV Bible

Perfect alignment rarely, if ever happens. You have to be prepared in and out of season when opportunity comes your way. If called into action, are you ready to bring your “A” game? How do you get prepared? You practice. Lindsey Hunter practiced all season long to play mere minutes at the end of a long season. You have to train your mind, body and skill set as if every day you will be presented with your shot at the championship. Look deep within your soul and ask yourself what you really want. Are you ready to have it?

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