HOW can two fi ctional characters with the graphic names of Pitman and Stickman improve your sales, and even your personal life? About 350 Travelscene American Express retail managers attending the Beijing conference on ‘Changing the Future’ were introduced to the Dueling Duo of Pitman and Stickman by global business trainer, Terry Hawkins. Hawkins has 25 years experience in business training and motivation and created the characters to represent two ways we can choose to look at our worlds. "Why do some people achieve great success, regardless of the hardships they faced, while others fall into a heap at the slightest sign of negativity?" she asked. Her insights can help people alter the way they think and feel forever, she said. "Travelscene, like most of the travel industry, is undergoing huge change at the moment. I hope my tools have helped each individual tap into unlimited energy supplies and discover how re-gearing their thinking and using Mind Language® can make substantial improvements in work or home outcomes and enjoyment. "Get out of the ‘pit’ and beware of Pitman, pit language, pit posture, pit parties and pit pals," she told her audience and then discussed how to stop renovating their pit. "Listen to Stickman and even if you have negative thoughts, you can fake the positives until you make it! "Live it, breathe it, talk it, walk it – see it, say it, feel it, DO IT," the energetic Hawkins implored. "Be a cup fi ller, not a cup driller. Your past does not hurt you; it is the meaning you place on your past that hurts you. Passion, responsibility and commitment are key."