A Million Ideas

28/01/2025

You know that feeling when someone asks "Where did you get that?" and you can't stop raving about the business? That's what I want for YOUR brand.

Quick story: Last week at an ERN meeting, someone was describing something that they needed help with. And in doing so, they perfectly described almost every detail of another member's business - their process, their values, even features similar to this business' branding. I was able to immediately recommend the other member's business to them because I knew both of them closely and knew that the member's business they were describing would be a perfect fit for them!

How did I know that though? Because I have heard that business owner tell the story of their business multiple times. Both in ERN and in other situations within the community. And that story stuck in my head because it was a real, authentic story of how they came to be, how they relate to their clients, and more.

You know what, that's not luck. That's intentional storytelling.

Think your business "isn't interesting enough" for great stories? Think again, friend.

Every business has stories worth telling:
➡️ Think of the problems you saw that no one else was solving
➡️ Think of the ways that your business does things differently
➡️ Think of the real reasons behind your business decisions and choices
➡️ Think of the impact you make in the lives of your clients

Here's your challenge for today: What's one story about your business that only YOU can tell?
Drop it in the comments - I bet it's more interesting than you think!

27/01/2025

You wouldn't believe how often I hear people say to me, "But I've only ever hired employees. I wouldn't know where to begin with hiring a contractor!"

I get this often when I bring up my Fractional CCO work. And believe me, I get it - bringing in a contractor to help with your business communication and messaging might feel like handing over your house keys to a stranger.

But here's what's really cool! Working with a Fractional CCO is actually WAY LESS scary than hiring a full-time employee in many regards. (Yes, really!)

Think of it this way: You're not signing up for a long-term commitment or figuring out a benefits package or negotiating salaries and perks. Nope, instead you're getting an experienced communication partner right off the bat who can:
➡️ Look at your marketing with fresh eyes
➡️ Spot gaps in your messaging you might be too close to see
➡️ Guide your content strategy without removing your voice
➡️ Help you connect all those communication dots you've been staring at

The best part? You're not stuck figuring it all out alone anymore. But you're also NOT locked into someone else's way of doing things.

I love helping business owners find their communication groove. Sometimes that means a quick strategy check-in, sometimes it's a complete messaging overhaul. The beauty is, you decide what you need and when you need it.

Are you still feeling nervous about working with a contracted Fractional CCO? Trust me, that's normal. Send me a message and let's chat about it because the relief you could be feeling right now because you have someone in your corner who gets it is a 15/10!

24/01/2025

Need a Communication Expert? Let's Talk Options!

After years of helping businesses grow their brand presence (and running a networking organization with over 100 members!), here's a question I get all the time:

"Should I hire a full-time communication person or work with a fractional consultant?"

Let's break this down in real talk:

Full-Time Employee Vibes:
➡️ They're there every day (like your favorite coffee mug)
➡️ Really get to know your business inside and out
➡️ Fully focused on your goals

But Keep this in Mind...
➡️ They require a full salary + benefits (hello, big commitment!)
➡️ They might get stuck in the "that's how we've always done it" mindset
➡️ They Could have gaps in certain skill areas

Fractional Consultant Magic:
✨ Brings expertise from multiple industries (without the full-time price tag)
✨ Fresh perspective and innovative solutions
✨ Flexibility to scale with your needs
✨ Direct access to someone who's seen what works (and what doesn't)

The Trade-Offs:
➡️ They're Not physically present 24/7
➡️ They are balancing multiple client relationships

Here's the thing - both options can work brilliantly. What matters is finding the right fit for WHERE YOUR BUSINESS IS RIGHT NOW.

Need help figuring out your best next step? Let's chat!

20/01/2025

Let's talk about something I don't always share...My Creative Process

After several years in design and business, the question I get asked most often is: "Where do all your ideas come from?" (I mean, I really did name my company A Million Ideas for a reason!)

But here's the truth about where those ideas come from and what I do with them when it comes to my real-world creative process:

I engage in daily "Drinking & Drawing" sessions. I count this as dedicated time for audiobooks and creative thinking - just me, my thoughts, and usually a good cup of coffee. No phone, no distractions.

Making time to wander, walk, or spend time thinking without the pressure to come to a clear decision. This allows me to change my perspective. And some of my best ideas come when I'm not trying to force them.

I love having time to play around with my own productivity. Whether it's trying new color combinations in a graphic or brainstorming with other creative minds, making time to play keeps the ideas flowing.

Maybe the most important is that I make space for Idea Collection. Everything gets written down or recorded - even the wild ideas. You never know when that "random" thought becomes your next big project!

So, what's my secret?
Really it's as simple as the fact that creativity isn't about waiting for inspiration - it's about creating space for ideas to grow. That gives me the time and space to think and come up with new shiny ideas!

What about you? What's your creative process? Drop yours below and share how you keep your ideas and creativity flowing!

17/01/2025

You know that moment when several pieces of your business suddenly click together? That just happened with The Community LNK, last month and quite honestly, I'm still buzzing with excitement!

First, we welcomed three new members this month! While that might not sound huge to some, every single person who joins our community brings their own unique energy and perspective. It's like watching a puzzle come together, one perfect piece at a time.

And speaking of perfect timing... I'm thrilled to finally share what's been brewing behind the scenes: The Clarity and Connection Retreat is happening!

Mark your calendars for January 31-February 2, 2025, at the Whatever Craft House.
I've partnered with the incredible Nikki Moore and Faith Lauterbach to create a weekend focused on developing the vision for both your life AND your business. Because let's be honest - they're completely intertwined, aren't they?

Sometimes growth isn't just about the numbers. It's about creating spaces where real connections happen and genuine transformation can take root. That's exactly what we're building here.

P.S. Watching The CommunityLNK evolve from an idea into a thriving bi-weekly mastermind setting has been incredible. Can't wait to see what stories come out of this retreat!

14/01/2025

You know what's funny? As someone who loves blue and black and white stripes so much that they've become my personal brand, I've learned something important: visual storytelling isn't just about making things look good - it's about making them feel right.

Think about it...
When was the last time an image stopped your scroll? What made you pause?

After several years in graphic design (yes, really!), here's what I know works:

Make your graphics human connecting
Your visuals should feel like a conversation with a friend over coffee. If you're losing yourself in jargon and complex charts, you're probably losing your audience too.

Keep it authentic
Just like how I embrace my love for blue in everything I do, your visuals should reflect your brand's true personality. Forced perfection is out; authentic connection is in.

Use your graphics to tell a story
Every graphic should have a beginning, middle, and end. Whether it's a simple Instagram post or a full presentation deck, guide your viewer through an experience.

Make it actionable
The best visuals don't just inform - they inspire action. What do you want people to feel? What do you want them to do next?

⭐️ Here's your homework for today: Look at your latest social media post or some graphic you've created recently. Ask yourself, does it tell a story? Does it feel like YOU? If not, maybe it's time for a refresh!

Want to dive deeper into visual storytelling for your brand? Let's chat!
Or better yet... join us at the upcoming Clarity & Connection Retreat where we'll be exploring this (and so much more) together!

13/01/2025

Are you staring at a blank document titled "Brand Messaging" while the cursor blinks mockingly at you?
I've been there, my friend.
Trust me, we've ALL been there.

But let me share with you a secret I've learned after years of helping businesses find their voice:
Everyone starts somewhere, and it's completely okay if your first draft isn't perfect.
(Spoiler alert: no one's ever is!)

Want to get unstuck? Start here:

1️⃣ Get clear on your 'why' (I know it's cliché, but it works!)
Why does your brand exist?
What gets you excited to work each day?

2️⃣ Think about your audience
What keeps them up at night?
What would make their lives better?

3️⃣ Own your secret sauce
What makes you uniquely YOU?
That special something that makes people choose to work with you over anyone else? That's your gold – embrace it!

Need help finding clarity in your brand messaging? I would love to work with you! You can book a call with me directly or send me a message and let's chat about what feels good for you.

Not ready for that step yet? There is a certain retreat I'm co-hosting coming up that will absolutely help you with this!

13/01/2025

Here's what I love about women in business ➡️ we're not afraid to dream big AND get practical about making those dreams happen.

THAT is exactly what the Clarity & Connection Retreat is all about!

Imagine that you're spending a weekend at the end of a new year (this year) with other driven women entrepreneurs who understand both the challenges and the victories of building something meaningful.

Faith Lauterbach, Nikki Moore, and I are creating space for real conversations, strategic planning, and the kind of connections that turn into lifelong friendships and business collaborations. Trust me when I say, you want in on this.

After years of running networking groups, I've seen firsthand how magical things happen when the right people come together in the right space. That's why we chose the beautiful Whatever Craft House for this intimate retreat - it's the perfect setting for both deep work and genuine connection.

Book the date: January 31-February 2. Registration details are below - and trust me, you won't want to miss this!

https://www.thecommunitylnk.com/event-details-registration/clarity-connection-retreat

11/01/2025

Let's go new year, new energy!🌟

While everyone's posting about "new year, new me," I'm over here thinking about what actually works and what needs to go. You know me - I'm all about keeping it real while making things better!

Here's my take on what's IN and what's OUT for 2025.

Spot anything that resonates with you? Drop what it is in the comments!

03/01/2025

You know that feeling when you're surrounded by other ambitious women who just get it? That's exactly what we're creating at the Clarity & Connection Retreat!

Faith, Nikki, and I have been pouring our hearts into designing an experience where you can step away from the daily grind and really dive deep into your vision for 2025. We're talking cozy conversations, strategic planning, and genuine connections with other women who are building remarkable businesses.

The Whatever Craft House is the perfect setting for this intimate gathering - think comfy spaces, great coffee, and the kind of environment where lasting friendships are formed. And, as someone who lives for making meaningful connections, I can't wait to bring together a group of amazing women who will support and inspire each other.

Mark your calendars for January 31-February 2. Limited spots available - link below!

Develop the vision for your life and business with Christina Krivolavek, Faith Lauterback and Nikki Moore during an all inclusive weekend retreat!

02/01/2025

You know what's wild? Sometimes the best business decisions start with personal revelations. After diving into "Buying Back Your Time" (thanks, Dan Martell!), I've been rethinking how I approach, well... everything. So here's what's changing in 2025:

Embracing my "Blue Stripe Energy" even more. Yes, I'm that person who coordinates her wardrobe with her brand - and you know what? It works! When you find something that feels authentically you, double down on it. My love for blue and stripes isn't just a fashion choice anymore - it's become part of my business identity.

Setting boundaries around my daily "Drinking and Drawing" time. Having A Million Ideas is great most of the time, but I'm continuously learning that not every idea needs my immediate attention. So, I'm being conscious and blocking out specific times for creative thinking and strategy sessions. The rest of the time? I'm thinking some of my ideas will just have to wait their turn.
Getting ruthless about my priorities. Between running ERN groups, client work, and speaking engagements, something's gotta give. This year, if it's not a "hell yes," it's a "no." And I'm not feeling guilty about it.

Making space for learning AND doing. Sure, these business books aren't going to read themselves...but really, it's the implementation of what I'm learning that is where the magic happens! Basically, I'm scheduling both learning time and action time this year - because knowledge without action is just expensive entertainment. 😬

Strengthening connections, not just collecting them. Sure, I could focus on growing ERN even bigger, but this year is about deepening the relationships we already have. Quality over quantity, always.

Here's the thing - running a business is rarely only about spreadsheets and strategy sessions. It's about creating a life that energizes you instead of draining you. Sometimes that means wearing your favorite blue shoes to an important meeting, or blocking off your calendar for an afternoon of reading and strategizing.

What are you all choosing to do differently this year? Drop a comment below - I'd love to hear your plans!

And if you're looking to clarify your own vision for 2025, well... there might be a certain retreat coming up that could help with that... 😉

13/12/2024

Ever wonder why I'm always in blue and stripes? It's more than just a love affair with color – it's actually a plot twist in my entrepreneurial story! 💙🖤🤍

Let me take you back a bit to a time before A Million Ideas became what it is today, and I had a different kind of 'million ideas' – they were all about what to buy next. I was stuck in a cycle of stress shopping, filling my closet with random pieces that never quite felt right. (Anyone else been there?)

Then I had what I now call my 'Blue Epiphany.' 💡

It happened when I made a simple rule for myself: if it wasn't blue, black, or white, it wouldn't come home with me. Suddenly, shopping wasn't about escaping anymore – it became intentional, focused, and (surprise!) even helpful for my business!

But here's the plot twist: This wasn't just about cleaning up my closet. It became a powerful branding strategy that I never planned. When you see blue and stripes now, you think of A Million Ideas. That's not an accident – it's what happens when your personal growth aligns with your business vision. 🌟

I do want to give a quick reality check here though: First of all, there's absolutely NO rule saying you need to become a walking billboard for your brand. The key is finding what works for YOU. Your signature element might be a particular accessory, a color that energizes you, or simply a style that helps you show up as your best self.

The beautiful thing about building a business is that YOU get to define what your version of professionalism looks like. Whether that's power suits or creative casual, the only real rule is authenticity.

Tell me: Assuming you can do whatever you want, what would your signature style element be? Still finding it? Ask yourself what makes you feel most confident when meeting clients as a place to start...

11/12/2024

Hey fellow introverted networkers - let's talk about one of the best secret weapons you already have in your arsenal: your ability to listen (and listen well!)

While extroverts are fantastic at working the room, the introverts have mastered the art of meaningful one-on-one conversation. And guess what? That's actually very much-needed networking gold.

Here's why: People remember how you made them feel, not how many business cards you handed out. When you truly listen and engage deeply with one person, you're not just making a connection - you're building a relationship that could last years.

My favorite strategy for emphasizing the ability to listen well to your networking counterpart? Schedule one or two coffee chats per week. But start with just one. Make it 30 minutes, come prepared with thoughtful questions, and then listen to the answers. No pressure to "work the room" or maintain high energy for hours. Just one genuine conversation.

(Don't forget to nap when you get home to recover and recharge! Figuring out how long you need to recover after an event will help you be even more productive with your whole life.)

But, trust me - I've built a networking organization, now with over 110 members, and some of my strongest business relationships started with exactly this kind of quiet, focused connection.

P.S. If you see me at networking events taking a quick breather in the hallway, come say 'Hi.' 👋 The introverted networkers need to stick together!

09/12/2024

December update from your favorite blue-wearing, communication-obsessed business owner!
November was... interesting. Let's talk about why...

First, the good stuff: Made it to Secret Office Studio's Session 1 event in Orlando (hello, quarterly travel goal ✓)! Similar to our Scaling Success event in Omaha, it was all about learning from other markets. Big takeaway? My LinkedIn game needs some serious attention - stay tuned for that journey!

One of my favorite moments last month was at RISE, a local women's networking event, where I got to do what I love most - connect people! There's nothing quite like watching a new business owner's eyes light up when you introduce them to exactly the right person in the room.

Speaking of connections, I started working with an amazing childcare center on their communication strategy. We tackled their parent handbook first - and let me tell you, sometimes all you need is a fresh pair of eyes and a change of scenery (my dining room table for the win!).

I also got to stuff bags with VisionaryYouth for their Thanksgiving drive - 1,200 bags of food for families in need. Talk about perspective-shifting work!

But here's the real twist: I got knocked down by a brutal illness for two weeks. As a solopreneur, this was... challenging, to put it mildly. I had to work really hard to practice what I preach about clear communication while letting clients know deadlines needed to shift. Maybe this was the universe's way of suggesting I need to think about building a team in 2025?

P.S. There's something powerful about sharing both wins and struggles. What's been your biggest challenge-turned-learning-moment lately?

06/12/2024

Let's talk about why I'm obsessed with blue (beyond just loving the color) and why your brand's colors matter more than you think. 🤔

When I was building A Million Ideas, I knew I wanted my brand to feel creative yet trustworthy, innovative yet stable. Guess what color naturally embodies all of those qualities? You got it - blue.

But here's where it gets fascinating: Color psychology isn't just about picking pretty shades. It's about understanding the silent conversation your brand is having with your audience before you even say a word.

Think about how Netflix's red creates urgency, or how LinkedIn's blue puts you in professional mode. These aren't random choices – they're strategic decisions based on how color influences emotion and behavior.

What's really interesting? These color associations change across cultures. The same blue that says 'corporate trustworthiness' here might mean something completely different elsewhere in the world.

Share in the comments: What's the primary color in your brand, and what message do you hope it's sending to your audience?

P.S. Ironically, blue is one of the rarest colors found in nature - which might explain why it catches our attention so well in marketing.

04/12/2024

Want to know the secret sauce to getting your message heard loud and far both on social media and in person? Hint: It's not about being the smartest person in the room – it's about being the most relatable.

I have been doing this for years, helping businesses communicate their ideas and developing messaging that connects with audiences and potential clients.

Here's the number one thing that I've learned: The moment you start speaking your audience's language, something happens. They lean in. They engage. They trust you.

Think about it: When was the last time you fell in love with a business because they used complex jargon? (I'll wait... 😂)

The truth is, breaking down complex ideas into bite-sized, relatable chunks isn't just good communication – it's good business. When you take the time to translate your expertise into terms your audience actually uses, you're not dumbing things down. You're opening doors.

Here's what happens when you simplify your messaging and wording to meet your audience where they are.
Your audience feels understood ➡️ Your message gets heard ➡️ You build trust naturally ➡️ Your connections deepen ➡️ Your business grows continuously

Need to test if your message is truly getting across? Try explaining what you do to a ten-year-old. If they get it, your clients will too.

Share it below: What's one complex thing in your business that you've struggled to explain simply? I'll hop in and help you workshop it because sometimes a fresh perspective is all we need!

02/12/2024

There's something powerful about putting down the audiobook and stepping into a room full of real-life, breathing entrepreneurs just like you.

Don't get me wrong - I love my business books and my digital learning morning routine (currently diving into Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg)! But in my opinion, the magic happens when you take that knowledge and connect it with real people facing real challenges.

At The Organization and CommunityLNK meetings, I'm constantly amazed by how a simple conversation can spark new ideas or solve problems. Whether it's hearing how someone tackled their pricing strategy or getting feedback on a new service offering, there's no replacement for face-to-face learning with fellow business owners.

I'd love to help you step out of your learning bubble and join a group or check out a meeting with real-life-changing entrepreneurs.

If you're up for it, then just ask and I'll give you the details to get to the meeting!

29/11/2024

You know what I love the most about entrepreneurs?
We're always looking for the "right" way to do things.

But after years of building businesses and helping others do the same, here's what I know for sure:
🪄 The magic happens when you stop trying to fit into someone else's formula and start building a brand that feels authentically YOU.

Think about it 🤔
⭐️ Your unique story matters more than following trends
⭐️ Your consistent presence beats perfect aesthetics
⭐️ Your genuine connections are more important than your follower count
⭐️ Your real personality is more memorable than polished corporate speak

Here's what I wish someone had told me earlier: Those "quirks" you're trying to tone down? They're probably your superpower. (Who knew my obsession with blue and stripes would become part of my brand recognition?)

The businesses that stand out aren't the ones doing everything "right" - they're the ones doing everything authentically.

Start there. The rest will follow.
And remember: You don't have to figure it all out alone. That's what having a supportive community is for!