Stephen Covey's seven habits of highly effective people have become classic pieces of leadership and management wisdom. The habits are applicable to having successful conflict conversations, both at home and at work. Here's how to use them next time you find yourself in a tense situation or conflict:

Habit 1: Be Proactive

Covey said that proactive people take initiative and "work on the things they can do something about." In conflict, too many people mistakenly assume that they have no real hope of changing the relationship they have with the other person, whether that's a co-worker, neighbor, ex-spouse, or former friend. When you make that assumption, you postpone or avoid the important conversation that could change matters.

When you act proactively in a conflict si

When you are ready to go out on your own and start a business, you will need to consider the plans to make your business a success. A business plan is all of your business information in one convenient document. You can use it for many reasons, such as, obtaining funding, and getting licenses, as well as for keeping your business on track. Every business should know how to write a great business plan and to evaluate that business plan on a regular basis to ensure that your business is doing what you need it to do. There are several different types of business plan outlines that can be used in order to ensure that you business runs smoothly.

1. The Economic Detail Outline: Using this type of outline shows how your business should progress on an economic level. The information you w

1. Do you expect flexibility from employees? ....But the company is rigid with policy and procedures.

2. Your company is described as 'family'. Which title best describes it: Gossip Girl - 7th Heaven - Survivor - Father Knows Best?

3. When someone defines their personal role  within the company...is it more about title or what they do and who they help?

4. Are staff afraid....to laugh, to talk, to provide input, to offer solutions, to fail?  Understanding personal fears leads to clarity.

5. As a team leader - does your team deliver more than you expect?  Is it skill, talent, personal motivation or perhaps  "how the work environment feels to them."

6. When was the last time your group - truly celebrated?  Beyond birthday's...how does the organization celebra

Why is it important to be top of mind to your past clients and referrers? In order to achieve professional success many focus their marketing actions on attending meetings to meet potential clients. While meeting potential clients is important don't overlook your past clients and other people who have already referred to you. Past clients and referrers know and trust you and the service you provide. They are already convinced that you do good work! They can be great sales people for you. Here are some marketing tips to be top of mind with them. It will lead to professional success for you!

1. Client Survey - Once you have completed the work for the client, ask him or her to rate your service. This will help you to improve as well as give the client an opportunity to be involved in