Are You Prepared?  What if...?

Life throws us curveballs. Whether it's a sudden change in plans, a new opportunity, or an unforeseen challenge, the question isn’t if it will happen—but when. The better question becomes: Are you prepared?

Preparation isn't just about supplies or skills—it’s a mindset. A mindset that says, “Whatever comes my way, I’ve already decided how I’ll handle it.” That may look like having a backup plan, a guiding philosophy, or a resilient attitude. Preparation minimizes the stress and struggle of decision fatigue when the unexpected hits.

Let’s explore how being prepared shows up in different areas of your work—and your life.

1. Creating the Day: Starting with Intention

The way we begin our day shapes how we interact with the world.

I like to begin my mornings with a reading from Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations. One passage stands out:

“You will meet people who are meddling, ungrateful, arrogant, dishonest, jealous, and surly… But I have seen the beauty ...

The Hidden Cost That's Dragging Your Notary Business Down

Let's talk about a sneaky little cost stealing from your business — and you might not even realize it's happening.

There are some "costs" in life we have to pay if we want to get anywhere good:

• Feeling awkward when you try something new? That's the tax on personal growth.

• Struggling through tough client conversations? That's the tax on strong relationships.

• Are you tired of marketing your business every week, even when it feels like no one's listening? That's the tax on building an honest reputation.

• Do you feel like an imposter when you offer premium services? That's the tax on leveling up.

These taxes are part of the deal. You can't skip them if you want the rewards on the other side.

But there's one optional tax — and it's the most expensive one of all:

The Ignorance Tax.

Here's what I mean:

The Ignorance Tax is what you pay when you stay stuck — because you're avoiding learning, trying, or faci...

7 Ways to Build Wealth That Aren’t in Your Bank Account

As notary entrepreneurs, it's natural to use our bank accounts as the scoreboard. We often track success by the dollars coming in, the profit we’re making, and how full our appointment book is. But while money is certainly one form of wealth—it’s not the only one.

In fact, some of the richest forms of wealth can’t be deposited in a bank. They show up in the way we feel, the time we control, the people we love, and the purpose that fuels us. So while you’re building your notary empire, don’t forget to build these seven other forms of wealth that will serve you now and when you decide to slow down.

1. Health: Your First and Greatest Asset

Wealth starts with wellness.

When you have energy, you get to enjoy not just your clients—but your spouse, your kids, and if you’re like me, your grandkids. You can attend conferences, say yes to non-business trips, and have the stamina to write books, speak at seminars, host live events, an...

It's Not Enough to Have a Commission: Why Notary Skills and Deliberate Practice Matter More Than Ever .

Being a commissioned notary is just the starting point. You've got your stamp, journal, website, or a few directory ads, but you're still not getting steady calls or repeat clients. What gives?

The truth is, it's not enough to just "be available." In today's competitive market, skills pay the bills. Your ability to assess, adapt, and deliver sets you apart—not just your name on a list.

Here's a breakdown of the real-world skills that keep clients coming back:

🔍 1. Scope of the Job Assessment

Before you grab your keys and head out, you need to ask the right questions:

• How far is the appointment?

• How many signers and documents are involved?

• Will printing or scanning be required?

• Are all signers in the same location/time?

• How will the documents be returned?

• Are witnesses needed?

Knowing the scope helps you prepare properly and price the job fairly...

Everywhere we turn, something is trying to influence us.

From the moment we wake up, we’re inundated with messages telling us what to think, how to act, what to value, and even what success should look like. Social media algorithms curate our feeds based on what keeps us scrolling, not what serves our purpose. Advertisements whisper promises of happiness and worth—if only we’d buy this, wear that, or achieve more. Friends and family, with all good intentions, may push us toward their version of “the right path.”

The world is filled with noise, and the subtle pressure to conform is constant.

But here’s the powerful truth: you were never meant to be molded by external forces—you were meant to shape them.

As notary entrepreneurs—whether you’re doing mobile work, fingerprinting, Apostilles, living trust deliveries, officiating weddings, or serving in hospitals—you already live differently than most. You’ve chosen a path of self-direction. But even in the world of independent work, it's...

Stretch to Win or Refuse to Fail: Two Mindsets for Notary Success

We are in a turbulent time. Are you second-guessing yourself as to what mindset will work best now? As a notary entrepreneur, success often depends on your mindset. Are you stretching to win, pushing boundaries to achieve new levels of success? Or are you refusing to fail, doing everything possible to stay afloat and overcome obstacles? While both mindsets have their place, they require different strategies. Understanding when to apply each can be the key to long-term growth and stability in your business.

Stretching to Win: The Growth-Oriented Mindset

Stretching to win means going beyond your comfort zone, taking strategic risks, and actively seeking opportunities to expand your notary business. This mindset is about playing to win rather than playing not to lose. Here are strategies I employ to win.

Strategies for Stretching to Win:

1. Set Ambitious Goals: Instead of settling for a steady stream of signings, aim to
...

Why “No Worries” Isn’t the Best Response to “Thank You” — And What to Say Instead

In everyday conversations—whether with clients, colleagues, or friends—we often hear and say “thank you.” It’s a small phrase packed with appreciation, recognition, and often, genuine warmth. But how we respond to that gratitude can either build connection… or subtly dismiss it.

One increasingly common response is “no worries.” It sounds casual, friendly, even harmless. But let’s take a moment to think about what it really communicates—and why there might be a better way to respond, especially in professional settings.

“No Worries” Minimizes the Moment

When someone says “thank you,” they’re expressing appreciation for your time, effort, support, or kindness. Whether you notarized a document at the last minute, stayed late to help with a project, or just showed up when it mattered, that “thank you” is their way of acknowledging your value.

Responding with “no worries” can inadvertently downplay that a...

Everything is "figureoutable": A Notary’s Guide to Problem-Solving and Success

Marie Forleo’s famous phrase, “Everything is figureoutable,” is more than just a catchy mantra—it’s a mindset shift that unlocks creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Notaries often face unexpected challenges: last-minute signings, complex documents, demanding clients, or logistical hurdles. But when you genuinely believe that a solution exists, you activate a robust set of problem-solving skills that can set you apart in your business.

Instead of saying, “This is too hard” or “I don’t know what to do,” try reframing the challenge: “How can I figure this out?” That simple shift puts your brain to work, finding solutions instead of dwelling on obstacles. Let’s explore how to adopt this mindset in your notary business today.

1. Question Your Limiting Beliefs

Marie reminds us: “Everything is figureoutable, but first you have to believe it.” That starts with identifying and challenging the beliefs th...

When we ask better questions, we get better answers. We develop an ability to anticipate and pivot. And it starts on the inside.  Instead of asking what do I need to do first, I ask who do I need to be?  My answer is be brave, be a risk taker, lean into what is hard and when I fall, get back up!

Some of you may have read my 2024 email on GRIT. I shared my story of going into the Moaning Caverns.

It was 165 feet down, 235 steps, and back up. Long story short my worst fear happened when I took a fall and had to move out of the way to let others pass.   The last 65 feet up were slow and painful, pulling myself up with the handrail each step, but I made it to the surface and celebrated; I did it!!! It was hard, and I just took one step at a time.

I read an email from Tony Robbins recently that strikes me as appropriate to my topic. He is talking about the Olympians who went to Paris. He said:

“The world’s greatest athletes prepared for their big moment—the chance to represent their cou...

The Difference Between Repeat Business and Loyal Customers in Your Notary Business

Building a steady stream of clients is essential as a notary, but constantly chasing new business can be exhausting. Instead of spending every day searching for new leads, developing strong relationships with repeat and loyal customers allows your business to thrive with minimal marketing effort. The key is understanding the difference between repeat business and loyalty—and knowing how to move clients from simply using your services again to becoming true advocates for your business. 

Repeat Business vs. Loyal Customers: Understanding the Difference

• Repeat Business: Clients who return to you for notary services, often because of convenience, habit, or a lack of alternatives. They may not be emotionally connected to your business and could switch to another notary if the situation requires it.

• Loyal Customers: These clients actively choose you over others, even when alternatives exist. They s

  ...