- Set the stage health
- Enjoy sunrises and sunsets
- Go for walks in nature
- Read a novel (or two)
- Do something extra at work and tell no one about it
- Try something new
- Spend an hour or a day in silence
- Create a development plan and goals that support growth and development
- Be open to finding my talents
- Be kinder to self
- Hold myself accountable for what I control and let go of all that I don't
- List 12 things that I am grateful for and send it to myself as a thank you note
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Have A Happy and Prosperous New Year
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
New Year's Resolutions - aka - ACTS(TM)
I wonder who was more successful with resolutions, the ancient Babylonians or we in the present day?
There are four ways to make New Year's Resolutions stick.
Step 1 Assess what you would like to change.
At the end of 2009, I reviewed my journal, completed some psychometric evaluations and conducted some informal 360 degree evaluations. The results were astonishing - I needed to work on personal responsibility. (No really, that is not really a surprise, I am notorious for over extending, doing more for others and failing to accomplish my personal objectives and goals. Now, I had a starting point
Step 2 Create a purpose and vision for what you would have identified will help you the most.
I decided to allow myself to expand and innovate. I spent January reviewing my dream inventory (what I would like to accomplish in 2011). My passions came alive in quiet times of reflection and in conversations with close and trusted friends and advisers. I now clearly focused on what I needed to do to ensure personal accountability. and formalized my strategic plan in writing.
Step 3 Transform your life by setting goals and taking action.
I used the wheels of life to help me prioritize my goals physically, mentally, socially, spiritually, financially, socially, financially, and in my career to ensure ta for how I would be more accountable to my purpose with changes This really helped to break my resolution into interesting images for success and growth.Now I could set 1 goal for each area. This simplified the process it was and is easier for me to manage my time.
Step 4 Sustain your progress and success.
In the past, this has been the area where I and most people fail. No pun intended, but now we must hold ourselves accountable for our actions in order to get the results that we desire. I enhanced an approach that I used to monitor my progress weekly, monthly, quarterly and at the end of the year. I changed how I journaled daily to monitor daily when I started something new.
Now you have it, my approach to New Year's Resolutions. This year has proved to be an amazing year in all aspects in my life. I have a very long way to go with personal accountability and I am now in year two for starting ACTS(TM) all over again.
Here's a start for you with ACTS(TM)
What have you Assessed that needs to change in 2011?
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What is the new image, vision or picture that you will create for 2011?
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What goals will your set and actions will you take in 2011?
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How will you measure your progress in 2011?
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Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The Danger of Making Excuses
Here are some common EXCUSES:
- My boss is a jerk, that's why the company is failing.
- The government has made very bad decisions, that's why this country is failing.
- My spouse or partner doesn't listen to me, that's why our relationship is failing.
- My subordinates doesn't know how to do their job, that's why my division is failing.
My boss is a jerk, that's why the company is failing.
This excuse is really interesting, after all who hired you, or at least is currently keeping you in your position. The boss is far from perfect and so are we. What if we considered that our boss hired us for our strengths, our talents, our creativity, our differences from them in order to find new ways to ensure the company's success? If so, why not take the responsibility to find ways to work with the boss in order to make the company grow and flourish?
The government has made very bad decisions, that's why this country is failing.
This excuse is really popular and takes us off the hook for all the decisions make regarding our economic, social, health and educational position in the world. How much do we know about our rights and responsibilities in a democracy? What are our roles and obligations to help keep this country a world leader?
My spouse or partner doesn't listen to me, that's why our relationship is failing.
In my opinion, this is an excuse of convenience . How often are we having conversations that we reach mutual understanding and respect? What can we learn and do to help us become more honest and effective communicators and collaborators?
My subordinates doesn't know how to do their job, that's why my project, division, community, or family is failing.
This excuse is total abdication of responsibility. What have we done or are we doing to ensure that our staff, subordinates, team mates, children have all the tools and resources they need to be benefit from from influence? How can lead others to make better decisions and take action on those goals to ensure great teamwork ?
I am learning to appreciate that I only have control over me. Which means that I need to own my roles as a follower, a community member, a partner and a leader. I then need to develop those skills and talents that will help me to become a positive influence on others. Making excuses is dangerous, leaving damage, destruction and disappointment in its wake. Consider contributing, rather than making excuses and imagine how amazing the world and our lives would be.
Monday, December 27, 2010
The Choices We Make
For today, I intend to make choices that will lead my life...
- in service to others without sacrificing myself
- in commitment to accomplishing my vision to promote health by being and acting in a healthy manner
- in appreciation for all the amazing gifts that I am given all year not just in this Christmas season
- in awe of the magic of the universe
- in excitement for the mysteries that always show up
- in respect for the roles that we are assume in life
- in understanding that sometimes the cards we are dealt are not always fair
- in total trust that there will always be guidance to make the best choice
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus
By Francis P. Church, first published in The New York Sun in 1897. [See The People’s Almanac, pp. 1358–9.]
We take pleasure in answering thus prominently the communication below, expressing at the same time our great gratification that its faithful author is numbered among the friends of The Sun:
Dear Editor—
I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O’Hanlon
Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.
No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Three Elements to Enhance Net Worth
Beliefs
our possibilities can become limitless."
In his farewell speeches, the CEO shared his impressions of his time with the organization. The most comment that made the most impact on me was, "although this organization will cease to exist, the value that the people have contributed to the community will continue. We have created a firm foundation for health and general well being. "
This totally changed my belief that the community had lost, then I realized how much the community had gained, as had every individual in that room. One of the strongest assets for enhancing net worth is total belief that we have been enrolled in a job, a relationship, an endeavor that had extraordinary worth. We can walk away with our heads high, believing we had contributed to a worth while cause.
Attitude
sometimes it's only a choice of attitude."
She identified her options and has decided to enjoy every moment. I for one, love being with this remarkable woman.
Actions
Mahatma Gandhi
I remember a story of a a woman whose company was downsizing. She was given an hour to clear her desk. In that final hour, telephoned her clients for most of the hour to share with them that a new person would be handling their account, service would continue as usual and the company wanted them to be in the loop with the change. She never told them she was leaving. When her clients realized that she had been let go, her phone started ringing with job offers. Even the company that let her go, called her back.
With the right beliefs, attitudes and actions, our net worth becomes priceless.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Leadership is About Responding with Ability
When questioned if he had read a 1000 page reform that would have massive impacts on his business and the industry at large, he responded, "I didn't have time to read the document."
Next, he asked the interviewer what were the three to four major issues that reform was addressing. Fortunately, she knew the answer (she had read the reform in preparation for the meeting) It was clearly apparent that she was much more prepared as an outsider to deal with his industry change than he was as the so-called expert.
The interview continue along the same vein, for each question, he didn't know and then he would asked her a question. Great technique if you hold to the philosophy that you only asked questions if you already know the answer. Clearly, he didn't have a clue regarding what his responsibilities were as the leader.
Close to the end of the interview, you could actually see the light bulb come on in this guy's brain. "I know. I'll tell the board that I am forming a committee to address this change and that the committee will be meeting weekly to discuss. What do you think?" he asked of the interviewer.
She looked totally astonished and quickly ended the interview.
Great lesson from this interview, be aware of owning the role, being able to respond with ability and come across as the leader who is truly in command.
Monday, December 20, 2010
There's More to Life and Business Than Ego
3 Signs of Ego
Dangling superficial incentives in front of people.
Napoleon once said, "Men will die for ribbons." As a result, thousands of soldiers marched to their death. Bonaparte was banking on his men to honored with short term recognition. As a result, he won battles at enormous cost and finally lost the war.
Suggestion: Find methods of recognition that are more lasting and meaningful. One suggestion is giving a person a project and allowing them to plan and manage with appropriate supervision (keep in mind, I am not saying lack of supervision). I, for one, thrive in this type of environment.
Any suggestions for incentivizing people?
Using position as entitlement
Known as a small man, Napoleon often tried to intimidate others with his dress, thrown and his title. He was often described as a megalomaniac and as a result had very few true supports. Followers are not the same as supporters, they are often doing a mediocre job because it is easier to stroke someone's ego than to stand up and do the right job in the right manner
Suggestion: Keep in mind that a position of leadership is a privilege. A title does not give a person power, even if they have the authority. A truly great leader will continually earn the respect of their team. One sure way to lose people is to say "I'm the boss and this is the way it has to be."
Any suggestions for how to effectively have authority and power?
Lacking integrity and honor
Napoleon didn't care how he achieved his desired ends. He lied to other heads of state, religious leaders and pretty much one to get what he wanted. He hired criminals and bribed officials to ensure results.
Suggestion: Keep in mind that at the end of the day, all we leave with is our character. I would much rather it be said of me that I am a person of my word, than to have someone say "I can't trust Laura.
Today, healthy business leaders let go of their ego and provide an environment of appropriate acknowledgment and rewards, lead from a positive position and act with honor and integrity. When this happens, employees will always excel and support the company's vision.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Review - A Year End Transaction
In reviewing the past year here are some thoughts and questions.
I think that is a much greater hunger,
a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.”
What goals did I achieve?
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What relationships have I forged?
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What contributions have I made at work?
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What contributions have I made at home?
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What contributions have I made n my personal and professional growth and development?
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Set aside a block of time to review this past year is a great investment of time.
Any suggestions for others to review at the end of this year would be greatly appreciated.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Four Pillars of Accountablity
Responsibility - "a duty that binds to the course of action." Simply stated, we are responsible to demonstrate responsibility by being proactive and fully understanding our purpose, our vision, our mission, our values, our role, our values. To be responsible, we will have done our homework before we dive into relationships, jobs, endeavors and ask what is expected of us when we are not clear.
Answerability - "being called to account." This follows responsibility in that when ask what we are providing or delivering is of the best quality, the best price and the absolute best value. To be answerable, when questioned, that how we are behaving personally and professionally supports what we are telling others we do or charging for in terms of products or services.
Trustworthiness - "a trait of being worthy of trust and confidence." Trust is something that is earned. Our behaviors can build or destroy trust. Honesty and integrity are the linchpins that hold relationships, companies and communities together.
Liability - "being legally bound to a debt or obligation." This is the price we must pay for violating our honor and our word. Repaying a debt with dollars is often a small price to pay, if we can maintain our character and sense of self.
These four pillars create a strong platform for work and life. What pillars would you add to create a firm foundation for accountability?
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Focus, Faith, and Fervor
Focus is the starting point
Some Focus Finding Questions:
- What impacts me?
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- What interests me?
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- What inspires me?
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Faith is the second point.
- How do I totally support myself in my focus?
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- How do I tap into that universal source of strength that holds me unshakable to my focus?
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- Who can help to restore my faith in my focus?
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Even the knowledge of my own fallibility cannot keep me from making mistakes. Only when I fall do I get up again.
Vincent van Gogh
- How do I get motivated?
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- How do I get back on track once derailed from my focus?
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- What would ignite that candle of passion when there is no fuel left?
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It's within our power to change lives, companies, communities and the world with focus, faith and fervor.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Overcoming Presenteeism - An Unacknowledged Contributor to An Under Performing Workforce
In 2004, Cornell University Institute for Health and Productivity Studies (IHPS) conducted a study that “estimate that companies' on-the-job productivity losses from presenteeism are possibly as high as 60 percent of the total cost of worker illness -- exceeding the costs of absenteeism and medical and disability benefits. “
The term presenteeism was coined by Cary Cooper, a professor of organizational psychology and health at Manchester University, UK, Dr. Cooper describes presenteeism as “an overwhelming need to put in more hours or, at the very least, appear to be working very long hours, is another dangerous symptom of the explosive degree of pressure in the workplace.”
What does all this mean to your company?
The impact of presenteeism gone unchecked results in:
- exorbitant costs,
- ineffective work team , and
- inability to attain key business objectives.
How can you as employers staunch outflow of dollars and productivity lost as a result of presenteeism?
1. Analyze the workplace environment
2. Identify the greatest area of concern
3. Prioritize and select one area to address
4. Create a plan of action to assist employees in managing their ability to cope with physical, mental and psychological challenges
Taking measures to increase awareness to presenteeism and it’s impacts on business results is key. Taking proactive steps to assist employees to deal with work and life challenges is the essential to business success. Ultimately, overcoming presenteeism will help you to build a high performing workforce that benefits both you and your employees.
Friday, December 10, 2010
How Networked Are You?
To find out how networked you are, please answer the following questions.
Do you have a clear idea of what you need from a network? __
Have you thought about what your have to offer others in terms of skills, knowledge or information? _____
Do your colleagues contact you frequently for advice or support? _____
Do you make an effort to get together with colleagues regularly on an informal basis? _____
Do you volunteer to participate in task forces or ad hoc committees to get to know others from other areas or groups? _____
Have you established a good working relationship with at least one key member of each function or area? _____
Do you periodically attend different types of functions or conferences that expand your contacts? _____
Are you an active member in at least one work related committee or organization? _____
Do you regularly attend company social events? _____
If you have answered "yes" to most of these questions, you are well on your way to being networked.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
The Key of Power
but he who has mastered himself is mightier still."
Lao Tzu
Some ways to find the Key of Power:
- Understand the vision, the mission, the company or the relationship for which we are about to embark upon.
- Decide that we are in agreement and actually want to be part of that objective.
- Identify roles and talents that best support that purpose.
- Communicate our concerns and our contributions.
- Listen and receive feedback assertively.
- Walk away when someone attempts to take total control of our power.
Go within to find the Key of Power.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Five Keys for The Keeper of Momentum
Purpose. Discovering one's purpose and contribution to the work is the first key to success. "When we know our Why, our How constantly shows up."
Passion. Igniting one's passion for involvement certainly starts a relationship or engagement off on the right foot. Keeping that passion burning after the initial excitement passes is the second key.
Principles. In order to have sustainable success, we must be clear on our fundamental core values. The core values become the foundation that will support all of our actions and thoughts. This key is the midpoint for momentum.
Positive. There is a saying that "people are hired for the ability, they are fired for their attitude." Keeping a positive point of view, appreciating that there is always a better way, a lesson to be learn, a silver lining in each situation is the key that unlocks any obstacle that is thrown our way.
Power. Finally, momentum is maintained even when doors are closed, windows are covered and the lights are turned off, we use the final key of power.
These five keys are available to all, we just need to seek, capture and then put into play.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Focus on the Ability to Respond - Be Self Actualizing
In the twentieth century, Dr. Abraham Maslow was a pioneer in transformational psychology and defined 'self-actualizing' individuals as "people who seek the frontiers of creativity and strive to reach higher levels of consciousness and wisdom. "
A 23 year old woman was critically injured in a hit and run accident. Paralyzed from mid-chest to her toes, married she now has two young children (both born after the accident), drives, manages her home, drives, gardens. Extremely social, when this young woman attends a party she lights up the room. No one notices the wheel chair or her frail body - all they see is her.
William Shakespeare -
Life keeps throwing us different circumstances big and small. Sometimes, little things seem really big and if we constantly react as if something is happening to us or around us as if we have little or no control then we a revealing our inability to respond. If on the other hand, we behave in a manner that is responsive and thoughtful, appreciating that we have the potential to handle any circumstances that come our way - then we become fully actualized.
Monday, December 6, 2010
"Quiet Desperation" or Contribution, Courage and Committment
"Quiet desperation" is showing up in work or life in a constant state of panic or apathy. A "what's the use" attitude permeates all the we think and feel and as a result, we barely function. Conversations become superficial. Work and life have no value or purpose. Productivity and effectiveness suffer.
With three small shifts, we can regain control of our lives, our work and our joy and move past this "quiet desperation."
1. Contribution. Appreciate our skills and abilities is absolutely essential. Reviewing our experiences, talents and attributes will help us to evaluate what tools and assets we have in our tools kits. These capabilities are uniquely special for each of us and we have an obligation and an opportunity to share them each and every day. Anthony Robbins has a wonderful quote that says it all “It is not what we get, but who we become, what we contribute, that gives meaning to our lives.”
2. Courage. Owning our abilities and strengths now becomes a responsibility. Stepping out and stepping up can take a tremendous amount of effort and energy and yet if we do not, we have lost total control. As Susan Jeffers says it so eloquently in her book by the same title, Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway.
3. Commitment. Being committed to sharing are personal best is the turning point. There is a line from Og Mandino's wonderful book called the Twelfth Angel, "Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better." If and when we agree to face each, moment, each day, each event with this thought, I believe we can live our lives to the fullest.
"Quiet desperation" or contribute, courage and commitment, it's a choice.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
5 Steps to Success
2. Facilitate empowerment.
3. Implement visioning.
4. Strategize priorities
5. Augment core structures."
Connie Willis
One would generally ascribe the above list to a corporate executive. Connie Willis is a science fiction writer, a leader in her field. Often, we fail to expand outside of our profession or field of interest. Just doing a little research, can net amazing nuggets of wisdom.
Thank you Ms. Willis for 5 profoundly simple steps to success and life.