Just when you think you have it all worked out; when you know exactly what the next few months of your life are gonna look like, a Southern wind blows in and changes direction, without the convenience of the weatherman giving you a heads up. That's what happened to me in a short twelve hour period last Tuesday. The announcement was made that the company I've been working … [Read more...]
There’s Still Time
If you are like me, you know how precious time is. You’ve also suddenly realized that twenty (or thirty) years have flown by in a flash. Aside from a dozen or so life-changing and amazing moments I can’t recall everything I’ve done in all those years that mattered, I mean really, really mattered; I can probably better tell you what I haven’t done. This quote by Henry Van … [Read more...]
3 Important Things I Learned About Social Media in 2010
Mixing "social" with "business?" Is that rather like the division of church and state? Not really. But you'd think so when you see the proliferation of articles, everywhere, about what to do and what not to do when it comes to utilizing Social Media and your business. What's a girl to do? This year of 2010 has been a revelation to me as to the ins and outs of Social … [Read more...]
Do You Dare Rock the Boat?
You should. We all should. If I've heard it once this week I've heard it 17 times; living your life for the approval of others will cause you to drown in your own disappointment. Well I didn't hear it exactly like that, but that's how it made me feel. Striving for approval means a little less you and a lot more of what "they" want to see from you. THEY will eventually … [Read more...]
Using Benefit Language to Communicate Your Value
If you've ever had an introductory course in sales, you know what WIIFM’s are. WIIFM stands for “What’s In It For Me?” and these statements focus our sales efforts on how our product or service benefits the customer. They are meant to shift our mindset from our own agenda to what the customer wants and needs. It has been my experience that using this benefit language is … [Read more...]
It’s Time to Take Off Your Mask
Don’t you love Halloween? It’s not just because of the sweet treats. It’s so much fun to dress up in costume and take on the identity of someone or something else for the day. The holiday festivities give us an excuse to put on a mask and adopt a new persona. Perhaps we choose to be someone funny, or maybe we become a scary monster. Maybe we don some sexy clothing that’s … [Read more...]
What Inspires You?
What does inspire you? Is it faith or family? Is it money or purpose? I sat back this week...yes, I sat back...and thought about my recent trip to New York. I once again soaked up the smells, sounds and sights of my favorite city...and I quickly began to realize that PEOPLE were what inspired me the most. People, humanity, reality! My taxi driver, Ahmed inspired me as he … [Read more...]
Your Time to Blossom is Now
I liken this time in my life, in your life, in our lives to the Lotus flower whose seed is planted deep in the bottom of a pool of muddy water; and through stormy and calm seasons has fought its way to the surface. As it grows from its root it pushes onward and upward toward the light. And just after it breaks the waters’ surface it blooms into the most beautiful, vibrant … [Read more...]
Getting Beyond Unconscious Bias
We are all guilty of bias. It is part of being human. One of the issues facing women in business is continued stereotyping , unconscious bias and the unintended consequences that result. This is one of the most difficult issues organizations face when they are working on culture shifts that must take place if women are to participate on an even playing field. The most … [Read more...]
Leadership and Asking Deep Questions
I was thrilled with the questions that Avil Beckford asked me when she interviewed me about my book , "Don't Bring It to Work". Avil’s blog, the Invisible Mentor is one of the best on the web. She has a keen ability to ask deep, probing questions that make you think and dive deep for the pearls in your life. As you read, ask yourself the same questions. It can help you gain a … [Read more...]