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“Creating Successful Leaders”

March 1, 2023 The “I Already Won” Mentality

A version of this post was first published on March 10, 2021.

How do you feel when you know something is a “sure thing?” When actions are so familiar and easy—driving a car, making a familiar recipe, doing a daily task at work—you do them almost automatically. You know you’ll achieve what you’ve set out to do. These everyday, routine tasks can be thought of as wins—tiny victories that are a sure bet.

But what if we dared to believe that other, bigger actions were also wins? What if we assumed we will give a flawless presentation, sign on a new client, or solve a problem?

There’s a certain amount of confidence and ease that accompanies this “I already won” mentality. If you’re certain, for instance, that you’re going to sign on a new client, your body language, tone, and the content of your speech changes. You convey that this action will happen. It’s inevitable.

Using the above example, you might start speaking to the potential new client using different language and terms. You might say, “When we start working together,” instead of “If we end up working together.” Or, you might say, “You’re going to love X, Y, and Z,” instead of, “If we work together, you’ll enjoy X, Y, and Z.”

Using stronger, more confident language is only one positive side effect of an “I already won” mentality. You’ll also find that your body language changes. You may become more relaxed and less anxious or tense. You won’t sound desperate to land the client or nervous that you said the wrong thing. When your body language relaxes, you’ll end up seeming more approachable and inviting—qualities people tend to appreciate.

When you’re confident that you will achieve a certain victory, you start moving beyond the stage where you worry and fret about the outcome and begin thinking about what you will do once you’ve accomplished what you’ve set out to do. This way of thinking is productive and forward-looking.

And what happens if you DO fail?

It’s bound to happen at some point, but my best advice is this: Don’t dwell on it. It likely wasn’t your confidence or approachability that was the problem; it was something else. Maybe a potential client simply couldn’t afford your offering. Maybe you didn’t get that promotion because you needed to have a certain certificate. Maybe the timing simply wasn’t right. Whatever the case, it’s best to pick yourself up, re-strategize, and keep moving forward.

With confidence.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 

HER NEW EBOOK IS CALLED A QUICK GUIDE TO COURAGE.

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February 22, 2023 The Link Between Movement and Productivity

If you’ve ever sat in one place for a long time, like at your desk or on an airplane, you know how lethargic you can feel after a while. That’s because there is a direct correlation between movement and brain function. According to InMovement, “Prolonged sitting leads to poor blood flow. As you move more throughout the day, your body is able to maintain optimal circulation to the brain, which is linked to improved cognitive function.”

Regularly moving your body can also, of course, lead to better physical health. This, in turn, can help you feel healthy and better prepared to take on life’s challenges. It’s difficult to perform at your peak when you’re feeling unwell or sluggish.

Studies have shown that exercising during the workday can improve time management and productivity. One study even noted a 72 percent improvement in these areas! Simply making an effort to move during the day can make a world of difference for your concentration and energy level.

If you’re looking for some easy ways to get moving during the workday, try these tips:

  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
  • Stretch or do light exercises at your desk (try chair yoga or desk aerobics).
  • Take walking meetings.
  • Schedule activity breaks for yourself.
  • Stand up and move around every hour or two.
  • Walk to your colleague’s office instead of sending an email.
  • Invest in a standing (or even a cycling) desk.

No matter which activities you choose, regular movement helps fuel productivity and increases your focus and energy. With the right balance of movement and work, you’ll be able to tackle anything the day throws your way.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 

HER NEW EBOOK IS CALLED A QUICK GUIDE TO COURAGE.

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February 15, 2023 8 Ways to Boost Motivation in Winter Months

If you live in the upper part of the Northern Hemisphere, as I do, winter is beginning to drag. When that happens, people tend to get restless and it becomes difficult to focus. During the summer, it’s easy to step away from the computer, take a stroll, or enjoy a cup of coffee or tea on a patio. But during the winter, many of us do not have that kind of outlet.

So, what can you do? How can you stay motivated and productive during the winter months?

Try some of the following 8 tips:

Invest in seasonal hobbies.

You can make the winter months a lot more enjoyable when you invest in seasonal hobbies like skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, or snowmobiling. Your activities could also take place indoors–perhaps this is the year you learn how to quilt or take your baking hobby to the next level. Find pastimes you enjoy and look forward to each week.

Take a winter vacation.

Travel can be a great way to boost motivation and energy levels. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, you’re sure to come back feeling refreshed and energized. Read my past blog post on effectively prepping for a vacation so you can truly relax!

Schedule regular outdoor activities.

Despite the cold weather, there are plenty of activities you can do outside. Take a walk each morning, explore a local park with your family, or discover local attractions/events (In Minnesota, we have ice sculptures, ski events, ice mazes/palaces, and even an “art village” that pops up on a frozen lake).

Create a cozy workspace.

Invest in items that make your workspace comfortable and pleasant. Some ideas include a cozy blanket, a warm drink mug, comfortable slippers, and scented candles.

Set small goals and rewards.

Break up larger projects into smaller, achievable goals and set rewards for meeting those goals. This will help you stay motivated and on track with the project even if you’re not feeling especially motivated.

Invest in daylight/SAD lamps.

During the winter months, some people suffer from a lack of daylight, causing them to feel lethargic, unmotivated, or even depressed. Daylight lamps (sometimes known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) lamps) can help simulate natural light and provide energy-boosting vitamin D.

Join a support group.

Joining a support group can help reduce stress and provide motivation, especially when you’re feeling stuck. Check with your local community center, churches, or ask some trusted friends.

Take regular breaks.

Breaks can help to refresh and recharge your energy and motivation levels. Whether it’s a 10-minute break or a longer one, taking breaks throughout the day is vital for resetting your focus.

The winter months can be tough for everyone, but with these 8 tips you’ll be prepared to find motivation, stay productive, and make the most of the season!

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 

HER NEW EBOOK IS CALLED A QUICK GUIDE TO COURAGE.

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