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“Creating Successful Leaders”

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October 7, 2014 How Do You Want To Be Remembered?

A few weeks ago, I lost a dear friend of mine. Her passing was especially difficult because, up until recently, she was vibrant and healthy—a ball of energy that everyone admired. As I reflect on her life, I think about the kind of person she was: loving, committed to her family and the community, always willing to help others in need.

At her funeral, countless stories were told about her generosity and buoyant spirit. I recalled how she volunteered for a local organization for disadvantaged families and would always be available to help at the drop of a hat, even in the early morning hours.

We all leave a legacy behind when we pass, and it’s healthy to think about that from time to time. How do you want to be remembered? Do you want people to recall how often you griped about work or gossiped about others around the office? Do you want to be remembered for your exclusion of others or your selfishness as you tried to climb the company ladder?

Of course not!

For us busy, working professionals, it is easy to lose sight of our true selves and focus solely on our occupations. In reality, this isn’t healthy for us or the people around us. Instead of plowing ahead in your work, take the time to step back, evaluate the path you’re on, and ask yourself how to make both your work life and personal life more fulfilling and balanced. In the end, it is best to live life with a purpose and be happy with who you are and what you are doing.

How do you want to be remembered? 

September 30, 2014 4 Lessons From the Garden

Fall is upon us and, looking back, I learned some valuable lessons from my garden this past year. It’s a quiet instructor, but it can teach us a few valuable things about resiliency and promotion-worthy behavior in the workplace.

flower
1. A sunny personality stands out from the crowd. Which flower are you most likely to stop and admire: the one that shows its stuff and is bright and colorful, or the one that is shriveled and dull? Having a bright personality is one of the best ways to draw positive attention to yourself and promote your psychological brand. Companies endorse and promote those with optimistic, upbeat personalities.

2. What you put in is what you get out. With all the work and activities we tend to pile on our plates, it’s easy to neglect ourselves. We might skip meals, go to bed late, or forget to exercise. This way of living is unhealthy and frankly, unsustainable. If you really want to blossom and do your best at work, make sure to set aside some “me time” every single day and focus on health, nutrition, and quiet time.

3. “Bee” hospitable to others. You are part of a community and, like flowers reach out to bees, you should reach out to your co-workers. Even if you like being a lone wolf, the truth is we need and rely on the insights, advice, skills, and expertise of our co-workers. A couple months ago, I wrote a newsletter on why great leaders should help others succeed. Please click HERE if you are interested in reading the whole article.

4. Don’t plant shade-loving plants in the sun. Everyone has their own unique skill set or “sweet spot,” as I like to call it. As a leader or influencer, make sure your team members are working in the right area. If someone on your team is struggling, it may not be because of their competency, it may simply be because they are a square peg attempting to fit into a round hole. By paying attention and getting to know others’ strengths, you will distinguish yourself as a capable, insightful leader.

As winter sneaks up on us, don’t forget the summer flowers and the lessons they teach us!

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September 26, 2014 4 Ways To Know You Shouldn’t Throw In The Towel Just Yet

Last week I highlighted some questions you can ask yourself to help you decide if it’s best to let “it” go. “It” is different for everyone, whether “it’s” a goal, a project, a relationship, or even the career you’re presently in. This week, I thought I’d give a few counter points: how do you know if you shouldn’t throw in the towel? How do you decide to stick with it?

1. You know deep down that this is what you want. Maybe this has been a childhood dream of yours. You lay awake at night fantasizing about it; you daydream about it. No amount of time has dissuaded you from it.

2. You have a plan. It’s great to know you truly want something, but this isn’t worth much without a game plan describing how you’re going to get it.

3. Although sometimes difficult and discouraging, this goal has made a net gain on your self-esteem and your general happiness. 

4. You’re seeing progress

If these points describe your journey in any way, don’t give up! Keep pushing forward, stay open-minded, learn from your shortcomings, and most of all, reach out for support and guidance. You should never feel like you need to do it all on your own.

Keep chasing the dream!

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