Make the SHIFT: The Proven Five-Step Plan to Success for Corporate Teams

by Beverly D. Flaxington

For teams and businesses that want to make effective change that works comes a book based on 25 years of corporate experience. The S.H.I.F.T. Model (TM) is a proven, five-step method that takes businesses where they need to go. In these uncertain economic times, who can afford not to make the shift? Get your business energized today -- and start your shift!

Genres: Business, Nonfiction

178 pages, Paperback

First published August 29, 2011

Reviews

[J Corcoran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for work teams to utilize, not too complex or difficult to follow but seems like it would be very effective. This would be very appropriate for a wide variety of businesses as well as the hospital where I work as a nurse. We constantly change things, put together teams, work groups. I did pass this on to our administrative director thinking she might like it as well! We might be able to put it to use!

[Lulu]

I won this book from the first reads giveaways and I am so excited to read it. Thanks.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” - George Eliot

Author Beverly Flaxington is a Certified Professional Behavioral Analyst (CPBA) and Certified Professional Values Analyst (CPVA), an accomplished business consultant, corporate coach, trainer, facilitator, behavioral expert, hypnotherapist, college professor, and business development expert. Beverly co-founded The Collaborative, a sales and marketing consultancy, and is currently principal of the firm. Beverly is the creator of “The Sales Effectiveness Model” used by many client firms to help diagnose areas of weakness and implement more effective selling practices. She trademarked the S.H.I.F.T. Model for goal setting, and The Five Secrets to Successful Selling program.
Her expertise is lauded around the globe because she offers practical, useful and easy-to-understand guidance for those individuals wanting to change their circumstances.

Beverly puts the YOU back into self-help instruction. As she states in her Introduction, ‘Human beings are responsible for change, whether it is change in their personal or their professional life. Every effort to create change, however, is susceptible to the same problem — lack of commitment and motivation. Change requires the motivation to keep up a sustained effort, and a commitment to getting to the desired place. And it requires a level of awareness, understanding, buy-in, and action… This book looks at everything from the resistance to success we all experience and ways to break free of it, right down to the issues relating to what you want, your desired outcomes, and how they can sometimes be in conflict.’

In a very straightforward, empathetic and sternly supportive manner Beverly uses the first part of the book to teach her SHIFT technique. Using diagrams, worksheets and illustrations sensibly she allows us to visualize and conceptualize the S.H.I.F.T. model - Specify your desired outcome, Highlight your obstacles and categorize them, Identify your internal and external human factors, Find you alternatives, Take disciplined action - and in doing so she moves us through motivation to commitment. She emphasizes the concept of ‘know thyself’ - consider the YOU in you and be clear about what we actually want to change, then study the obstacles to make that change, explore/identify the human element (‘Remember that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results!’) and consider those around us who will be influenced by the change, and then once the plan of action for change is accepted by the YOU then take disciplined action to achieve that shift.

Throughout this immensely accessible book Beverly offers golden comments such as, ‘Why is figuring out what really matters so hard for us? It is because often we are moving away from something we do not like instead of moving toward something we do want.’ And after she spends the first section of the book teaching us the S.H.I.F.T. technique she provides substantive backup with ‘Tips and Tools for Greater Effectiveness in Life’. She makes it sound easy and if we erase all the barriers we have constructed to truly reach the goals we desire, this process becomes immediately available. Excellent teacher and a fine coach and author. Highly recommended.

[Valery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Make Your Shift: The Five Most Powerful Moves You Can Make to Get Where You Want to Go by Beverly D. Flaxington is a powerful tool that will help you set goals and reach them. The author, Beverly D. Flaxington is a wearer of many hats, most notably aCertified Professional Behavioral Analyst (CPBA) and Certified Professional Values Analyst (CPVA). She has developed the S.H.I.F.T. model as a methodology for effective goal setting not only for businesses and organizations, but for individuals as well. This book is written in a straightforward manner, and puts you in the driver's seat when it comes to managing your life and/or business. It all comes down to setting goals, and most importantly, writing them down while being very specific. The book is broken out into two different segments, the first being very accessible in describing how to do the SHIFT program, while the second section details Tips and Tools to make sure you are on your way to success. A very helpful and informational book that will motivate and inspire everyone to go after their dreams and goals.

[Betty Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What hit me hardest in "Make Your SHIFT" was Beverly’s approach to identifying obstacles—especially the section on how we can unknowingly sabotage ourselves. It opened my eyes to the fact that I had been repeating the same patterns, expecting different results without ever stopping to understand what was blocking me. Her concept of “Highlighting and Categorizing Obstacles” made me pause and do a real audit of my life. It wasn’t always easy to admit that some of my biggest challenges were self-created, but the clarity it gave me was worth it. I also appreciated how Flaxington emphasizes that some obstacles are out of our control, and that’s okay! This book was a refreshing change from the usual self-help fare. It felt more like having a coach who encourages you to slow down, reflect, and then take action.

[Laura Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beverly Flaxington’s "Make Your SHIFT" took me by surprise in the best way possible. I’ve been trying to make changes in my life for years, but I always seemed to lose focus. The practicality of her advice really struck me and gave me the grounding I never thought I needed. I loved how she encourages you to break down the bigger goal into smaller, digestible pieces. It’s such a simple concept, but I had never approached my goals like this before. The clarity this process gave me was incredible—it made everything seem achievable, even the more daunting challenges. Beverly’s tone is warm and encouraging, like a good friend cheering you on. By the time I finished, I felt like I had a real strategy in place, and I’m excited to put it into action. This book gave me hope that change is possible.

[Benjamin Stockton · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I appreciated most about "Make Your SHIFT" was Beverly Flaxington’s ability to make personal growth feel accessible and less overwhelming. The chapter on “Finding Alternatives” was a transformative experience for me. I’ve always been an all-or-nothing person, and when I hit roadblocks, I tend to abandon my goals completely. Flaxington suggests that it’s okay—and often necessary—to have a Plan B or even a Plan C. Now I know I don’t need to beat myself up when things don't go perfectly; instead, I could adapt. It’s such a simple idea, but it’s one that had never occurred to me before. This book doesn’t promise instant results, but it gave me the mindset shift I needed to approach my goals with flexibility and resilience. I feel more confident in my ability to pivot and still succeed.

[Karen Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Make Your SHIFT" by Beverly Flaxington felt like it came into my life at the perfect time. I’ve been feeling stuck in my career and wasn’t sure why. What really stood out to me was Beverly’s advice about “Specifying Your Desired Outcome.” It sounds simple, but it showed me how I had been moving through life without a clear direction. I loved how the book challenges you to really dig deep into the why behind your goals. For the first time, I took the time to reflect on what I actually want, instead of just chasing what I think I should want. The exercises are practical and gave me the tools I needed to identify and pursue goals that truly matter to me. This book is more than just advice—it’s an actionable plan.

[Madison Carrigan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a full-time working mom of two, finding time for myself is almost impossible. I picked up "Make Your SHIFT" on a whim, hoping for some practical advice on how to balance everything. Beverly’s insights really spoke to me, especially her approach to recognizing the “human factor” in change. I realized I’ve been spreading myself too thin, trying to meet everyone else’s needs while neglecting my own. What I loved about the book is that it didn’t make me feel guilty for needing to shift gears. Instead, it encouraged me to prioritize my well-being. The strategies she offers are realistic—small steps that fit into my crazy schedule. I now feel like I can make meaningful changes without feeling overwhelmed. It’s an empowering read for any mom trying to juggle it all.

[Wayne Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading "Make Your SHIFT" felt like having a personal coach guiding me through my struggles. What really resonated with me was Beverly’s focus on recognizing the obstacles we all face. Too often, I’ve rushed into trying to fix things without acknowledging what’s actually standing in my way. I was particularly struck by her point that some obstacles are self-imposed—we might be getting in our own way without even realizing it! This insight was a eye-opening for me. Beverly doesn’t sugarcoat how hard change can be, but she gives you real tools to navigate the difficulties. I closed the book feeling empowered to face my challenges head-on, knowing that I have the tools to work through them. This isn’t just a self-help book—it’s a roadmap to self-awareness and success.

[Joan Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a recent college grad, I’ve been struggling with figuring out my next steps. I felt like I had no direction, just a bunch of vague goals floating in my head. "Make Your SHIFT" helped me cut through the noise and actually clarify what I want. Beverly’s advice on getting specific about your goals and understanding why they matter was revolutionary. It helped me see how I’d been setting goals based on what I thought I should want, not what truly excited me. This book helped me redefine success on my own terms. Now, instead of chasing everyone else’s idea of a good career, I’m pursuing opportunities that align with my passions. It’s not just another self-help book; it feels like a personalized guide for anyone trying to navigate life after graduation.

[Ashley Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read a lot of self-help books, but Beverly Flaxington’s "Make Your SHIFT" felt different right from the start. The chapter on “Identifying the Human Factor” blew me away. I never realized how much my success was influenced by the people around me—both positively and negatively. Flaxington doesn’t just talk about setting goals; she dives into the deeper aspects of how our environment, relationships, and even our own behaviors can either support or sabotage our progress. The book made me more aware of my support system and how to leverage it, but it also helped me see where I might be holding myself back. It’s rare to find a book that blends psychology, practicality, and inspiration so seamlessly. This book isn’t just a guide—it’s a true roadmap for lasting change.

[Haley Saxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve ever felt like your life is in a rut, Beverly Flaxington’s "Make Your SHIFT" is exactly what you need. I was particularly drawn to her point about the “Human Factor”—how we’re influenced by relationships, environments, and even our own psychological patterns when trying to make a shift. I’d always thought I could power through my issues if I just worked hard enough, but this book made me realize that my interactions with others were a huge factor in my failures. For example, I’ve been letting toxic friendships hold me back for years. The SHIFT model gave me the permission I needed to cut ties and focus on relationships that support my growth. This book isn’t just about setting goals—it’s about setting the right goals for you and your unique circumstances.

[Samuel Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t expecting "Make Your SHIFT" to hit me as hard as it did, but wow, Beverly Flaxington really gets to the heart of what holds us back. What really clicked for me was her emphasis on understanding why we want to make a shift before jumping into goal-setting. Too many times, I’ve set goals that I thought I wanted—whether it was losing weight or getting a promotion—without ever asking myself if they aligned with my values. Her advice to dig deep into the “why” behind your goals was eye-opening. It turns out I had been chasing achievements that didn’t actually make me happy. This book forced me to take a step back and reassess my life with more clarity. I’m now setting goals that feel meaningful to me, and I’m excited about the future for the first time in a long time.

[Kayla Renfrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved about "Make Your SHIFT" was its focus on taking personal responsibility for the changes we want to see in our lives. Beverly Flaxington’s writing style is so approachable, and she really gets to the heart of what holds us back. One part that stuck with me was her advice on understanding the “why” behind our goals. I realized I’ve been setting goals for years without truly knowing why I wanted to achieve them, which is probably why I kept falling short. Flaxington encourages readers to dig deeper into their motivations, and that really helped me recalibrate what I was working towards. The book is full of practical advice and small actions that lead to big results. I finished it feeling more in control of my path and ready to move forward with purpose.

[Mason Slade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a student is stressful, and I’ve been feeling completely overwhelmed by my workload, personal expectations, and the pressure to succeed. I picked up "Make Your SHIFT" hoping to find some way to get my life back on track. What really stood out to me was how Beverly emphasizes breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable actions. I’ve always felt like I had to tackle everything at once, and it’s left me feeling paralyzed. This book helped me figure out that it’s okay to take things step by step, as long as I’m moving forward. The advice is straightforward and easy to apply—whether it’s managing time, dealing with stress, or staying focused. I feel like I have a better handle on how to juggle everything now, and that sense of control has made a world of difference.

[lizz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked how straight to the point this book was. The first line of the book, “ As human beings, we really are goal seeking even when the goal isnt good for us.”

Talk about starting with a bang.

She talks about getting behind the root of our goals, which is a different aspect from what I’ve been reading in other books. Doing this allows you to see if you’ve actually set the right goal for yourself.

[Eddie Howden · Rating 3 out of 5]

The concepts were decent enough. I just could not get my claws into the methodology

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Start your shift

Really interesting and helpful! It took me a while to finish it, but I'm glad that I did! I'm ready to start my shift!

[Gianfranco Torino · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read, it's full of examples and if you are technical person that enjoys matrices, definitely has some interesting ones where you can classify peoples

[Victor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Concise & practical. Gives you a good structure in his to move forward, not just abstract advice

[Zahida Zahoor · Rating 2 out of 5]

SMART goals plus think about obstacles including people that may hinder or help you

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Make the Shift: The Proven Five-Step Plan to Success for Corporate Teams, is an amazing little book that offers step by step strategies to help businesses identify, work through and implement changes that will take the business where it wants to be. S.H.I.F.T. stands for Specify the desired outcome, Highlight the obstacles and categorize, Identify the human factor, Find alternatives, and Take disciplined action. Part one of the book deals with the SHIFT model, while part two offers Tips and Tools for Greater Effectiveness in Business. This was actually my favorite section. It included developing a formal business plan, which isn't just for start ups. It is useful whenever you want to make changes, as well. Another chapter was on building your own brand, and making sure your internal brand matched what you are trying to convey to the outside world. Chapter 8 was on Presenting with Confidence, and explained the six keys to confident presenting. Finally, there is a chapter on dealing with stress.
Included in the tips and tools section are downloadable worksheets, one of which I am using to help prepare an upcoming presentation.

This book has value to business students, as well as managers and employees.

[Tom Law · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have all set goals only to have them “crash and burn”. Beverly Flaxington tell us why – US. Many times we are the problem why we cannot achieve our goals. She outlines a clear path to help us get to where we want to go. Of course, the first step is knowing where we want to go in the first place and a lot of that has to do with us understanding who we are. But, as she points out, it isn’t enough to set goals, we have to understand what is keeping us from getting there (obstacles – both in us and outside), as well as the “human factor” (again, both in us and others), and finally we need to think about a variety of ways of getting there. These keen insights make the book well worth the price. Too often we become fixated on one way of getting to our objective without thinking of the three elements she present so clearly – obstacles, human factors, and alternatives. Bringing these into the mix, as we plan and implement out plan, will increase the probability of success.

[Charmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highlights:
Part 1:
1. Identify stakeholder: level of interest and level of power (interfere)
2. List: worries, categorize what I have control, influence or no control over.
3. Criteria: alternatives that meet it
4. Action plan when meet obstacles

Tips:
Listen = silent focus
List: 5 things I did well today
List: 10 little things I can do to build self-confidence
Learn: new things that help me get better
Confidence - risk taking
Gratitude list
Positive affirmations
In the zone elements
Record success
Behavioral style - DISC
-Successful people - self aware of own comm, adapt to other comm styles, aware of how they are
perceived.

[Ken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very nice read for corporate teams or in working teams in general in adding more effective structure and foundation to help your team and business succeed. Very informative and motivational :)

Thank you for having this in the Goodreads First-Reads Program and giving me the chance to win and review this copy :)

[Adriano · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brief overview of the 'SHIFT' system and how to implement it. There aren't too many examples of this being put into action, outside of anecdotal evidence from the author, but it seems actionable enough. It's really meant to be worked through, rather than read in a sitting.

[LyndaVee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you need to get from here to there in some or many aspects of your life, this author aims to show you how. She specifically wants to take account of human nature, which many purveyors of books on change simply gloss over. By the time you decide that you need to change you have already been programmed to behave in a certain way so to a certain extent you must unlearn behaviours – retrain your mind. This is extremely difficult. I found particularly helpful the passage on highlighting the obstacles to change. I am a worrier and I know you should identify things that are within your power to change and those which are emphatically not. I also realised that I myself have been an obstacle to any change in my professional life; I always seem to end up with a bullying boss. I do not stand up for myself as I immediately fall back to a learned pattern of behaviour which stems from a childhood spent trying to appease an overbearing father. In many ways I have turned my bosses into bullies by refusing to assert myself. This book certainly gives plenty of food for thought.