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“Creating Successful Leaders”

December 4, 2024 5 Reasons to Invest in YOU

Limited Time Offer: My online leadership course is on sale for $98. Enjoy the “Invest in YOU” discount.

If you’re like many people I know, the holiday season is a time when you put your personal needs aside to focus on others. That might mean hosting holiday gatherings, working hard to wrap up year-end projects, or buying presents for family members, friends, and colleagues. In between all the hustle and bustle, it can be difficult to pause and think about the road ahead for YOU—your personal or professional future.

I encourage you to take a few moments this month to turn your attention inward. Doing so is not selfish or indulgent. Rather, it is an essential part of self-care, career advancement, and staying at the top of your game. Not only that, when you invest in yourself, you become better equipped to support those around you.

When you choose to invest in yourself, you reap many benefits including the following:

Gaining Clarity

When you choose to invest in yourself, you gain clarity on your goals, values, and the direction you want to take in life. This self-reflection can help you make more informed decisions about your career, relationships, and overall well-being. On the flip side, if you continue forging ahead without pause, you may lose sight of what truly matters. Taking time to invest in yourself can help you regain that clarity.

Improving Skills & Knowledge

We all have a “needs improvement” area. If you already know your shortcomings, consider enrolling in a course, a class, or a training program to fill that knowledge gap or sharpen your skills. Consider talking this over with a supervisor, since your workplace may pay for your continued education. If your focus is on leadership, building confidence, or advancing your career, check out my online 10-Minute Leadership Challenge course.

Boosting Confidence

Investing in yourself, whether through education, skill development, or self-care, can significantly boost your confidence. As you grow and improve, you’ll feel more capable and empowered to tackle new challenges. When I work with teams or lead workshops, one of the most common areas of improvement for attendees is courage. Many of us struggle with taking brave actions in the workplace and need a little help to gain the necessary confidence to act or step outside our comfort zones to become stronger leaders.

Expanding Career Opportunities

When you choose to invest in yourself, that means you are also investing in your future. By developing new skills, knowledge, and confidence, you open yourself up to expanded career opportunities. Employers often seek out candidates who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement. Taking the time to further your education and skills makes you more valuable and marketable—positioning you for promotions, new roles, or even a career change.

Broadening Your Perspective

One important potential side effect of investing in yourself is the expansion of your perspective. When you dedicate time and energy to learning, growing, and reflecting, you naturally start to see the world through a new lens. This broadened outlook can lead to increased creativity, empathy, and innovative thinking. By investing in yourself, you become better equipped to navigate complex challenges, collaborate effectively with others, and contribute more meaningfully to your personal and professional spheres. Ultimately, broadening your point of view can enrich every aspect of your life.

Taking time for self-reflection and continued education can provide invaluable benefits that positively impact every area of your life. Don’t let the busyness of the holidays prevent you from making your own needs a priority. It is essential to dedicate some time and resources (if only a little!) to your personal and professional growth. Help yourself so you can help others.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

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November 20, 2024 The Complexity of the Human Experience (and Insights Discovery)

As a career coach and Licensed Practitioner of Insights® Discovery, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life. Through that work (and from life experiences, in general), it is clear to me that each person is a unique and complex tapestry, woven with a multitude of “colors” that make up their personality, interests, and ways of thinking.

We rarely fit neatly into a single box or category. Rather, we are dynamic—constantly evolving and adapting to the circumstances and challenges that life presents. One day, we might feel social and outgoing, and the next, we might find ourselves more quiet and introspective.

This diversity within ourselves is a testament to the richness of the human experience. We are not one-dimensional, but rather a kaleidoscope of traits, strengths, and weaknesses that come together to form the individuals we are.

The Insights® Discovery Program and the Color Wheel

As I’ve discussed in past blog posts, the Insights® Discovery program offers a fascinating perspective on this concept of our “many colors.” This program utilizes a color wheel to help individuals better understand their dominant personality preferences and how they interact with others. If you’re unfamiliar with the program, these are the basics:

  • The color wheel is divided into four main quadrants: Sunshine Yellow, Fiery Red, Earth Green, and Cool Blue.
  • Each quadrant represents a distinct set of personality traits and preferences, from the outgoing and enthusiastic Sunshine Yellow to the analytical and reserved Cool Blue.
  • Most people will find that they “lead” with one or two of these colors, which tend to be the most prominent aspects of their personality.

However, the beauty of the Insights® Discovery program lies in its recognition that we are not limited to a single color or way of being. In fact, the program encourages individuals to explore and embrace the other colors on the wheel, as they can provide valuable insights and strategies for navigating different situations and relationships.

Stepping into the “Other” Colors

Let’s say, for example, that you identify primarily as a Sunshine Yellow. This means that you are likely energetic, charismatic, and thrive in social settings. You may be the life of the party, always ready with a joke or a friendly smile.

But what happens when the circumstances call for a more analytical, reserved approach? Perhaps you’re facing a complex problem at work that requires a deeper level of critical thinking and attention to detail. In these moments, it can be incredibly valuable to step into your “blue” side and tap into your ability to be more introspective and methodical.

Similarly, if you lead with Cool Blue, you may find that embracing your “red” side can help you become more assertive and decisive when the situation demands it. Or if you’re an Earth Green, exploring your “yellow” qualities can allow you to be more spontaneous and open to new experiences.

The Beauty of Embracing Your Whole Palette

The key is to recognize that we are not limited to a single color or way of being. By embracing the full spectrum of our “colors,” we open ourselves to a world of possibilities. We become more adaptable, resilient, and better equipped to navigate the ever-changing landscape of our personal and professional lives.

It’s important to remember that this process of self-discovery and growth is not a linear one. We may find ourselves gravitating towards different colors at different times, and that’s perfectly natural. The goal is to become more aware of the full range of our capabilities and to consciously choose the “color” that best serves us in any given moment.

Celebrating Your Unique Complexity

In the end, the beauty of the human experience lies in its complexity. We are not simple, one-dimensional beings, but rather a tapestry of different “colors” that come together to create the unique individuals we are. By embracing and celebrating this complexity, we can unlock new levels of self-awareness, personal growth, and fulfillment.

Let us embrace our many colors and step into the full spectrum of our potential. For it is in this journey of self-discovery that we find the true richness and beauty of the human experience.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

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November 6, 2024 Choosing Kindness (More Important Than Ever)

In a world that often feels increasingly divided and polarized, the simple act of choosing kindness has never been more crucial. Through both my life experiences and my work as a career/life coach, I have observed the profound impact that kindness (or the lack thereof) can have on our personal and professional lives.

The Importance of Kindness

Kindness is not just a feel-good concept; it is a powerful tool that can transform our relationships, our communities, and even our own well-being. When we choose to be kind, we open ourselves up to deeper connections, foster understanding, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

In a world that has become increasingly divided, with political and social tensions running high, the need for kindness is more pressing than ever. We have become a nation where civility, good manners, and basic humanity have been overshadowed by the constant need to prove our own point of view or to win at all costs.

The Impact of Kindness

The impact of kindness cannot be overstated. When we choose to be kind, we not only make a positive difference in the lives of others, but we also reap the benefits ourselves. According to an article written by the Mayo Clinic, kindness has positive effects on both the mind and body. The article says, “Kindness has been shown to increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a hormone directly correlated with stress levels. People who give of themselves in a balanced way also tend to be healthier and live longer.”

Kindness is also a mood booster. It can make us happier, reduce stress, and improve our overall mental and emotional well-being. In short, the simple act of choosing kindness can be a powerful antidote!

Practicing Kindness in Everyday Life

Keep in mind, kindness doesn’t have to be grand or dramatic; it can be found in the small, everyday moments that make up our lives. Here are some ideas for incorporating more kindness into your daily routine:

  • Practice active listening and be present with the people in your life
  • Extend grace and understanding when someone is having a bad day
  • Be patient and understanding with service people
  • Practice empathy—attempt to see another’s point of view before passing judgment or responding negatively
  • Refrain from online squabbling. Little it achieved through fighting behind your screen!
  • Offer a compliment, give a few words of encouragement, or give someone a sincere “thank you” whenever it makes sense (consider sending a handwritten card)

In a world that often feels divided and polarized, the choice to be kind can be a powerful act of resistance. When we choose kindness, we are challenging the narrative of “us vs. them” and instead embracing the idea that we are all in this together. Though it’s easy to get caught up in the endless cycle of political and social debates, I’m certain you can find common ground with just about anyone if you just look for it. At the end of the day, many of us care about the same things—our family (and pets), our friends or community, our home, financial security, our career. Keep that in mind the next time you’re with someone who does not share all your points of view or beliefs.

Remember: kindness doesn’t mean that we have to agree with everyone or that we can’t stand up for our beliefs. It simply means that we approach our interactions with empathy, understanding, and a willingness to listen and learn. When we choose kindness, we create space for meaningful dialogue, and we open the door to the possibility of finding solutions that benefit everyone.

In a world that often feels overwhelming and uncertain, the choice to be kind can be a powerful act of hope and resilience. By embracing kindness in our everyday lives, we can not only improve our own well-being but also contribute to a more compassionate and connected world.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

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