Some members of the business networking group Roaring Women were surprised to learn the guest speaker at their monthly meeting was a man -- being that it was International Women's Day.

However, Mark Nagler was quick to point out to those who braved last Saturday's snowstorm to attend his seminar at the Holiday Inn Burlington that he had absolutely no control over being born with cerebral palsy, or male.
He then promised them strategies for success would allow the entrepreneurial women to rise to the top of their game and remain there. Nagler encouraged the club members who meet monthly to promote, educate and connect with women in business, to become their own advocates. Born with cerebral palsy at a time when most disabled children were institutionalized, he learned from a very early age to advocate for himself and continues to triumph over his disability.
 

The professor of sociology, author and disability consultant told the women that everyone must overcome, certain challenges in order to live for success. He also said a winner advocates for herself and knows how to ask for something in a way that people can't say, "No".

"Be a tough-minded optimist," he challenged the women, "by always telling yourself, Yes I can!"

Nagler's 14 Points for Tough-Minded Optimists, which he adapted from former U.S. president Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points for Success in Managing the World, inspires entrepreneurs to strive for a complete life, incorporating not only success in their job. but also allowing time to enjoy life, family and confidants.
 

He says a tough-minded optimist stays on top and avoids burnout by allowing time for regular renewal.

"Rest and relaxation are part of the strategy for success and must not be forgotten."
 

Women who try working 24 hours a day seven days a week cant remain on the leading edge. Many heads nodded in agreement when Nagler said, "Those of you trying to be super-women will inevitably succumb to kryptonite."
 

He told the women that an entrepreneur who allows time to rejuvenate can sustain her vigor and vitality which is crucial if she wants to. maintain the ability to identify and address problems early, to drink outside the box and to remain on the leading edge of business.
 

Much of Nagler's inspiring message encouraged women to keep a positive frame of mind in order to succeed in business. He encouraged the group to interrupt negative trains of thought and use their imagination to rehearse for success; allowing themselves to feel confident that they can shape the progress of their future.
 

Nagler said tough-minded optimists heighten their power of appreciation They thank and encourage the people they work with, and also allow time to appreciate their own past accomplishments; never settling in the present, but always looking toward and evaluating the future.

Nagler also told the women to organize a level playing field in their business lives by constantly standing up for their rights.
 

"You can't take on the opposition by sitting down and taking it," he told the group. "Stand your ground and do whatever it takes to succeed."
 

Members of the women's group talked of being inspired by Nagler's, 'don't accept no from anybody message.

Kay Moore, a new member of Roaring Women, found Nagler's seminar well worth listening to.

"It was very interesting and very relevant," said the Avon small business entrepreneur. "It really motivates you to keep going."

For more information about Nagler, visit www.marknagler.com.
For more about Roaring Women, visit www.roaringwomen.com