Clever, Open and Engaging
Dawn Bonner

In the days where being ‘politically correct’ is a movement, purportedly to civilize conversation; yet, it seems, instead of opening up communication, PC speak has taken away our ability to communicate openly and clearly. At times, it’s as if we are speaking mush… other times our verbiage is so nondescript or over-dramatized that many verbal and written communications are no longer effective. One comes away wondering, what the heck were they talking about?

Open, Articulate and Sincere

There are people who don’t follow this trend and this article is about one such person. He says what he means and means what he says. He’s as refreshing as Annie Leibovitz and Ed Evangelista; both also speak openly and unfiltered, without the usual prepared media ‘spin’ others in the lime-light often deliver.

Surprisingly tall at six-feet-four-inches and well built; this man could be an athlete. Funny, kind, well-read, down to earth and a straight shooter are a few characteristics of, perhaps, the best known real estate mogul in the world. He is the American icon whom we lovingly call ‘The Donald.’

Keeping Commitments

He shares amusing analogies, as well as, inspirational stories of his life. For instance, he talked about when he was up against the wall; broke, not knowing where he was going to come up with his next payment for the bank (this happened in the eighties).

Trump shared, “I was invited to a banquet and the last thing I felt like doing was to go to a banquet. I was staring at a bankruptcy; getting ready to lose a fortune. But, I made a commitment to go, so I went. I was sitting at the banquet table, not feeling like… like being at this roast. I started talking to the man beside me. We did crack a few jokes; got friendly.  After we shared some things, I found out he was one of my bankers. I was able to work out terms… had I sat home on the couch, life would have been a lot different for me at that time. You just never know what’s around the corner,” said Trump. “Don’t ever give up and don’t hide out, get out there, live life, keep commitments.”

A Blessed Dad

Currently, he’s at the top of his game. Trump said he loves having a little one in his life again. His wife, Melania Trump, gave birth to their son, Barron on March 20, 2006, six days before his talk at The Moscone Center in San Francisco, Calif., for The Learning Annex’s Real Estate Wealth Expo.

He said, “Having my older children working by my side is another great source of joy. I am proud of them; their accomplishments and work ethic. It wasn’t easy growing up as my child, I expect a lot from them. I know I am a blessed man.”

“It took a lot of focus and determination to keep close knit family ties, loyal friends, and the empire I continue to build, but it is all worth it,” Trump said.

Donald Trump’s ‘The Apprentice’ Series

Before it aired, there were writers who published articles sharing opinions of what a loser Trump would be regarding his television series, Celebrity Apprentice. Their sentiments were of the conclusion his celebrity list consisted of low grade B-listers; hence a lackluster show would be created, according to the entertainment reporters.

What did they know? True to form, ‘The Donald’ pulled out another ace from his sleeve and produced the most watched show on TV.

“I love The Apprentice. That’s why I keep doing it. There were a couple of seasons that weren’t good. You know why? The personalities weren’t there. Those are the seasons I didn’t have anything to do with choosing the people. And, those seasons were boring. There was no one that stood out. No one like Omarosa [Manigault]. We really do talk, I like Omarosa, she’s Omarosa, she’s bigger than life,” said Trump.

Entertaining, Engaging and Educational

Trump has an engaging style, he entertains, educates, and amuses; his comedic timing is impeccable. When Trump shared his stories, many laughed so hard, tears rolled from their eyes. He’s earnest, engaging and vibrant when speaking. For over an hour Trump gave Carte Blanche into his life; spun with wit, candor, and honesty. Trump did not hold back while sharing a conversation about love, life, and money.

Trump is similar to Frank Sinatra; in that, people say it didn’t matter if Sinatra was in front of one or thousands, he made you feel as if you were the only one in the room.

Trump said, “Ask me anything, what ever you’d like to talk about, ask me and I will answer.”

Then, sincerely wanting to make sure to share something of value for our time together he delivered. Trump generously shared his top ten points on living life well. Gleaning insight into what he has learned through personal experience and that of friends and colleagues. Using examples of good decisions and bad decisions, he often is self-deprecating. This is his gift to us; well thought out advice, which may enhance your life. It certainly has worked for him.