As I was driving through town yesterday, I saw a billboard with a picture of a snowcapped mountain and a skier flying down a black diamond run. It was pretty cool to see, especially when it is October and the temperature on the car thermometer reads 84 degrees.
The tagline above the picture read, “People dream all year of your everyday.” We live in a place that has what others want, and they can’t just drive an hour to get it. They have to plan for it. This is what they are saving for. This is their dream vacation, to come and ski the mountains of Colorado.
It was like the billboard was saying “Hey, idiot in the car down there! Don’t you see? You get to live in another person’s dreamland.”
Some advertising executive thought up this tagline, probably at some advertising agency in Los Angeles. Maybe it occurred to him while dreaming of coming to Colorado with his family for the winter.
Picture this….he is googling “Colorado mountain towns” and sees that Winter Park has some specials over the holidays. He hasn’t skied in years and his kids are now the right age to take lessons. His wife would love shopping in the village. They could all go eat dinner at that cute mountain bistro and enjoy some much needed family time.
He calls his wife and says, “Honey, you know that vacation fund we’ve been saving? Let’s take the family to Colorado this winter.” She is excited. He is excited. They hang up, and he books the trip. They have a special dinner that night to tell the kids all about their upcoming Colorado vacation. The kids start a countdown calendar. They tell all their friends, who are envious of their plans.
The time comes and they board the plane to Colorado. They land at Denver International Airport and get a shuttle to Winter Park. The town looks just like a postcard. Their hotel is at the base of the mountain. They soak in all the winter fun they can that week, and enjoy every minute of it.
On their last night, they go out to dinner and meet a group of locals. These people live in Winter Park. They ski every day in the winter. They drink hot cocoa each night by the fire. They are living this family’s dream vacation.
Now that I have painted the picture, think about this: each one of us is living someone else’s dream. Perhaps we have someone else’s dream job, or we’re in someone else’s dream marriage. Maybe we live in the kind of house someone else is saving for, or we are blessed with the kind of family relationships someone else is yearning for.
That’s the way it is in the world. We all have dreams. Sometimes, we may dream about what someone else has. Other times, someone else is dreaming about what WE have.
Here is my challenge for you today. Ask yourself these questions:
1. What is your dream? Where have you always wanted to go? What have you always wanted to experience? CAN YOU MAKE PLANS TO DO IT?
2. What do you have that could be someone else’s dream? Is there something you are taking for granted? Do you need to remind yourself how lucky you are?
As I sit here at my house in Colorado, I realize that I am grateful to be where I am…
…but boy, I sure would love to go to the beach!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Colors of Fall
The Colors of Fall
It seems like yesterday that I was reflecting on the amazing smell of lilacs blooming in the Spring air. The grass was just starting to grow and the air was becoming warmer each day. Baseball was just getting ready to kick off its season, and I was thinking about the promise of renewal and growth that comes to us each year.
Funny how time goes by so fast. As I was walking my dogs this morning, I was struck by the fact that Fall has now stepped up to take its turn.
I sometimes get a little sad during the Fall. Not because I don't love it - what’s not to love? Turtlenecks make a comeback, football season begins, and Starbucks serves up Pumpkin Spice Lattes. But then, with Fall comes the end of so much I hold dear. The flowers start to die. The grass turns brown. The air turns colder.
I got to thinking this morning about the leaves changing colors, and how much I love the beautiful reds, yellows, and oranges. What a blessing it is to witness this glorious transformation. But the beauty we see has some interesting reasoning behind it - and please remember I am not a scientist so my explanation will be very rudimentary.
When fall comes, trees understand that the winter will bring less water and light for them to feed on. So, the trees choose to withhold water from their leaves in order to reserve their resources for winter. The lack of water causes the leaves to slowly die – and as they do they are transformed from green to vibrant yellow, orange, red, or purple.
Without the decision to neglect the leaves, we wouldn't get the beauty of the leaves changing, and the trees may not be able to withstand the difficult winter long enough to bloom again in the spring. The changing leaves remind us that making difficult decisions, though hard at the time, can bring about magnificence in our world.
Do you have a hard decision you have to make soon? If so, what magnificence can come from it?
It seems like yesterday that I was reflecting on the amazing smell of lilacs blooming in the Spring air. The grass was just starting to grow and the air was becoming warmer each day. Baseball was just getting ready to kick off its season, and I was thinking about the promise of renewal and growth that comes to us each year.
Funny how time goes by so fast. As I was walking my dogs this morning, I was struck by the fact that Fall has now stepped up to take its turn.
I sometimes get a little sad during the Fall. Not because I don't love it - what’s not to love? Turtlenecks make a comeback, football season begins, and Starbucks serves up Pumpkin Spice Lattes. But then, with Fall comes the end of so much I hold dear. The flowers start to die. The grass turns brown. The air turns colder.
I got to thinking this morning about the leaves changing colors, and how much I love the beautiful reds, yellows, and oranges. What a blessing it is to witness this glorious transformation. But the beauty we see has some interesting reasoning behind it - and please remember I am not a scientist so my explanation will be very rudimentary.
When fall comes, trees understand that the winter will bring less water and light for them to feed on. So, the trees choose to withhold water from their leaves in order to reserve their resources for winter. The lack of water causes the leaves to slowly die – and as they do they are transformed from green to vibrant yellow, orange, red, or purple.
Without the decision to neglect the leaves, we wouldn't get the beauty of the leaves changing, and the trees may not be able to withstand the difficult winter long enough to bloom again in the spring. The changing leaves remind us that making difficult decisions, though hard at the time, can bring about magnificence in our world.
Do you have a hard decision you have to make soon? If so, what magnificence can come from it?
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Beauty in Letting Go
I am a control freak. There is really no other way to say it nor no easier way to phrase it. I just always feel the need to control things.
You can imagine then, how well I do on airplanes. Flying itself doesn't scare me. I recognize that I have a better chance of dying in a car crash on the way to the airport than I do in the actual plane. But boy, does being 32,000 feet up in the air in a big metal box as a passenger scare the living heck out of me. And here is why - I have absolutely no control over anything happening while on that plane other than whether to order coffee or a glass of wine.
So, as I sit on a plane right now, on my way home from the 3rd annual Building Champions Experience, I have to wonder why it is I am such a control freak to begin with. So I figured I would reflect about my control freak tendencies and see what I come up with.
Why I am a control freak could come from many different avenues. It could come from childhood and the fact that I was the youngest child in a family of three. Growing up with a terminally ill sister that had immediate and constant needs for as long as I can remember up until her death in 1988 could explain a lot.
It could come from the fact that I struggle with insecurity and continually try to be better while feeling like I will never be good enough.
It may simply be the fact that no one I know ever wants to die in a fiery plane crash.
Either way, issues of control tend to hang over many people I know. Do you ever feel helpless or frustrated in a situation where you have no control over the outcome?
So you can imagine how surprised I was when just 4 short days earlier, on my way to the Building Champions Experience, I looked out the window at the most beautiful scene I have ever seen out of an airplane window and at once felt peace at 32,000 feet. The clouds had formed in the shape of a million cotton balls lined up to shield the view of the ground from me. The mountains near San Francisco rose above the clouds and seemed to glorify in their presence so high up. The blue sky above was calling out its song of beauty, bragging as if it had never been this beautiful. I was in awe. It was as if I had finally relaxed around the control issue and felt no need to ever have again. There was - at that moment - beauty in letting go. It was, quite possibly, one of the most amazing moments I have ever experienced. Like if I had died at the moment, I would have died completely satisfied.
What is it you need to let go of today that stops you from living the life you truly deserve? I promise you - if you do let go you'll be happier than you ever have.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Van 2
VAN 2 - A Lesson in Team Building
This week I was supposed to talk all about the gift of encouragement. Please allow me to sidetrack. I promise to get back to that next week (unless something else comes up - ha ha).
Last Thursday I flew to Portland, OR to participate in a race called Hood to Coast. For those of you that don't know what Hood to Coast is - it is a 197 mile relay race that starts at Mt. Hood and ends at the beach in Oregon. It is a truly amazing experience.
And when I say an amazing experience, I don't say it because of the actual race. That is fun, challenging and a truly incredible accomplishment. I use the word amazing to describe the team building and friendship making that goes on before, during and after the race.
A team is made up of 12 runners. Each team uses 2 vans - 6 in each van (for those of you reading this before you drink your coffee this morning, I figured I would do the math for you). Van 1 runs the first 6 legs, van 2 runs legs 7 - 12.
I was in Van 2. The only person I knew was my boss, Barry. I was introduced to the other 4 runners the night before the race at a BBQ. They seemed nice. Boy, nice doesn't even begin to describe these individuals.
The next day we head out and our individual personalities start kicking in. We had the encourager (me), the daddy (Jay), the blogger (Kelly), the boss (Barry), the early adopter (Scott) and the saver (Bill). Each of us bonding in an environment where teams are either built up or broken down. We were lucky to have a team that lifted each of us up. We knew we would all get along, but none of us expected the kind of friendship we built as we physically, emotionally and mentally challenged ourselves in a race dubbed "The mother of all relays."
By the end of the race we had each used our God given gifts to motivate and encourage each other to accomplish the most rigorous physical test most of us have ever gone through. Without each other we would not have made those late night legs. Without each other our friends and family would not have shared the experience through the blog that was created. Without each other we would have had to run the leg our bodies wouldn't allow us to run. Without each other we would have never made it to the next stop in time. Without each other we would have never taken the time to rehydrate and stretch. And, without each other we wouldn't have laughed hysterically while watching YouTube videos of crazy news stories.
No matter what "race" you are running today, we all need team members to lift us up when we are down. To cheer for us from the sidelines. To give us courage as we take on challenges that we have never taken on before. And, most importantly, to allow us to continue running even when we are in pain (either physical or emotional).
Who do you have in your van?
This week I was supposed to talk all about the gift of encouragement. Please allow me to sidetrack. I promise to get back to that next week (unless something else comes up - ha ha).
Last Thursday I flew to Portland, OR to participate in a race called Hood to Coast. For those of you that don't know what Hood to Coast is - it is a 197 mile relay race that starts at Mt. Hood and ends at the beach in Oregon. It is a truly amazing experience.
And when I say an amazing experience, I don't say it because of the actual race. That is fun, challenging and a truly incredible accomplishment. I use the word amazing to describe the team building and friendship making that goes on before, during and after the race.
A team is made up of 12 runners. Each team uses 2 vans - 6 in each van (for those of you reading this before you drink your coffee this morning, I figured I would do the math for you). Van 1 runs the first 6 legs, van 2 runs legs 7 - 12.
I was in Van 2. The only person I knew was my boss, Barry. I was introduced to the other 4 runners the night before the race at a BBQ. They seemed nice. Boy, nice doesn't even begin to describe these individuals.
The next day we head out and our individual personalities start kicking in. We had the encourager (me), the daddy (Jay), the blogger (Kelly), the boss (Barry), the early adopter (Scott) and the saver (Bill). Each of us bonding in an environment where teams are either built up or broken down. We were lucky to have a team that lifted each of us up. We knew we would all get along, but none of us expected the kind of friendship we built as we physically, emotionally and mentally challenged ourselves in a race dubbed "The mother of all relays."
By the end of the race we had each used our God given gifts to motivate and encourage each other to accomplish the most rigorous physical test most of us have ever gone through. Without each other we would not have made those late night legs. Without each other our friends and family would not have shared the experience through the blog that was created. Without each other we would have had to run the leg our bodies wouldn't allow us to run. Without each other we would have never made it to the next stop in time. Without each other we would have never taken the time to rehydrate and stretch. And, without each other we wouldn't have laughed hysterically while watching YouTube videos of crazy news stories.
No matter what "race" you are running today, we all need team members to lift us up when we are down. To cheer for us from the sidelines. To give us courage as we take on challenges that we have never taken on before. And, most importantly, to allow us to continue running even when we are in pain (either physical or emotional).
Who do you have in your van?
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
USING THE GIFTS WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN - THE GIFT OF WISDOM
We have all been given certain gifts in our lives that, when identified, cultivated and used properly, can have a huge impact on the people around us. Of course, the opposite is also true. If not identified, cultivated or used properly, it can have a huge impact on the people around us as well. Which type of impact (positive or negative) is up to you.
Mahatma Gandhi says: "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."
What a true statement to how we should be living. If we are continual learners, than it is only natural that we will continue to learn how to use these given gifts to the best and highest use.
Wikipedia describes wisdom as this - comprehension of what is true or right coupled with optimum judgment as to action.
Knowing the meaning of wisdom as well as the impact it can have on those around you - I ask you today - is wisdom a gift of yours? How would you even know? Try this:
1. Ask yourself if you have passion around wisdom. Do you have motivation to have it? (rate yourself based on 1 being no motivation/passion - 5 being extreme motivation/passion).
2. Ask yourself if you have experience with wisdom. (rate yourself based on 1 being no experience - 5 being extreme experience).
What scores did you give yourself? If you rates 8 - 10, you probably have the gift of wisdom. Now, what to do with it (in case you aren't already doing something now).
Consider this - people with the gift of wisdom oftentimes are great at helping others see truth in their lives. This may mean that you are the person your friends or family come to for advice. You may also have wonderful teaching skills that helps people navigate through tough decisions. Keep in mind - this gift is powerful and should not be used with a lot of pride. Keep your pride in check while helping others and you'll be on your way to having a positive impact in all the lives you encounter.
Next week - The gift of encouragement
*Side note - I recognize that some of you reading this may read the Bible and some of you may not. This article, though biblical based, can and should be applicable to all people of all faiths and beliefs. Wisdom isn't a gift just for the Christian. I hope you enjoy the next few weeks as we explore gifts together.
Mahatma Gandhi says: "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."
What a true statement to how we should be living. If we are continual learners, than it is only natural that we will continue to learn how to use these given gifts to the best and highest use.
Wikipedia describes wisdom as this - comprehension of what is true or right coupled with optimum judgment as to action.
Knowing the meaning of wisdom as well as the impact it can have on those around you - I ask you today - is wisdom a gift of yours? How would you even know? Try this:
1. Ask yourself if you have passion around wisdom. Do you have motivation to have it? (rate yourself based on 1 being no motivation/passion - 5 being extreme motivation/passion).
2. Ask yourself if you have experience with wisdom. (rate yourself based on 1 being no experience - 5 being extreme experience).
What scores did you give yourself? If you rates 8 - 10, you probably have the gift of wisdom. Now, what to do with it (in case you aren't already doing something now).
Consider this - people with the gift of wisdom oftentimes are great at helping others see truth in their lives. This may mean that you are the person your friends or family come to for advice. You may also have wonderful teaching skills that helps people navigate through tough decisions. Keep in mind - this gift is powerful and should not be used with a lot of pride. Keep your pride in check while helping others and you'll be on your way to having a positive impact in all the lives you encounter.
Next week - The gift of encouragement
*Side note - I recognize that some of you reading this may read the Bible and some of you may not. This article, though biblical based, can and should be applicable to all people of all faiths and beliefs. Wisdom isn't a gift just for the Christian. I hope you enjoy the next few weeks as we explore gifts together.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Walking is wonderful
Today I decided to skip my scheduled run and just walk. I have been running so much in preparation for The Hood to Coast next weekend that I forgot how beautiful the air was in the morning, and how lovely the flowers are.
It is kind of like that in everything we do in life - isn't it. We are driving so much, so we decide to bike ride every once in a while and we notice things we didn't notice in the car. We run so much that the day we decide to walk we, again, notice the things that speed by us too fast while running.
It happens in our marriage, with our kids, or with our clients as well. We are so busy speeding through what needs to be done that we forget to take joy in the simple pleasures that are brought to us.
Did you know that quiet time is one of the core disciplines we should schedule time for each week? Without quiet time, we cannot truly listen to what we need to hear. Without quiet time we cannot truly see what we need to see. Our senses go into overload when we just stop and pay attention. And boy, there is so much to pay attention to.
Today, during my busy coaching day, my husband asked if I could go out to lunch with him. At first I just kind of laughed and then looked at him like he suggested we fly to the moon and back. I mean, I have 1 hour for lunch and then I have to be sitting in my coaching chair preparing for my afternoon sessions. I couldn't possibly have time to go out to eat. I suggested he bring me back some fish tacos (he was heading to Wahoo's - which has the best fish tacos if you are into that sort of thing). He wasn't buying that idea. After thinking about it, I realized that I would probably just go read my book during lunch anyways, so why wouldn't I jump in the car and go with him. I made him promise we would be back in 1 hour.
Not only were we back in time, but I had time to spare and the memory of us sitting in the sun and eating a wonderful meal together. So worth the effort.
Whether it is going for a walk versus a run, having lunch with your hubby versus gobbling down something quick, or anything else you always get stuck doing - I encourage you to each stop for a moment allow yourself the freedom to have some much needed quiet time.
It is kind of like that in everything we do in life - isn't it. We are driving so much, so we decide to bike ride every once in a while and we notice things we didn't notice in the car. We run so much that the day we decide to walk we, again, notice the things that speed by us too fast while running.
It happens in our marriage, with our kids, or with our clients as well. We are so busy speeding through what needs to be done that we forget to take joy in the simple pleasures that are brought to us.
Did you know that quiet time is one of the core disciplines we should schedule time for each week? Without quiet time, we cannot truly listen to what we need to hear. Without quiet time we cannot truly see what we need to see. Our senses go into overload when we just stop and pay attention. And boy, there is so much to pay attention to.
Today, during my busy coaching day, my husband asked if I could go out to lunch with him. At first I just kind of laughed and then looked at him like he suggested we fly to the moon and back. I mean, I have 1 hour for lunch and then I have to be sitting in my coaching chair preparing for my afternoon sessions. I couldn't possibly have time to go out to eat. I suggested he bring me back some fish tacos (he was heading to Wahoo's - which has the best fish tacos if you are into that sort of thing). He wasn't buying that idea. After thinking about it, I realized that I would probably just go read my book during lunch anyways, so why wouldn't I jump in the car and go with him. I made him promise we would be back in 1 hour.
Not only were we back in time, but I had time to spare and the memory of us sitting in the sun and eating a wonderful meal together. So worth the effort.
Whether it is going for a walk versus a run, having lunch with your hubby versus gobbling down something quick, or anything else you always get stuck doing - I encourage you to each stop for a moment allow yourself the freedom to have some much needed quiet time.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Do You Have a Dream?
I start my newsletter again this week with a video - one I am sure we have all seen or at least heard of. Please take a look.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEMXaTktUfA
That famous Martin Luther King, Jr. "I have a dream" speech is great. It is, was and will be one of the most amazing and moving speeches ever written. It touches each of us in a different way. Some will watch with tears in our eyes because we have felt racism. Some will watch with pride because we have helped advance his dream. Some will be sad because we still have so far to go.
My purpose of sharing this video with you today is to showcase just how important it is for us to have a dream. Because without one, we are just a bag flesh and bones walking around this Earth and in our lives without a true purpose. With dreams we can focus our energy on doing those activities that help us reach those dreams. Without dreams we are like a weary traveller without a destination. With dreams we have shared and common goals with those around us. Without dreams we are alone and vacant of community and companionship.
So, if you are reading this and do not have a dream for your future - get one (heck - get 100). It doesn't have to be Martin Luther King, Jr. big. But it has to be big to you. It might be to finally take a cruise to a favorite travel destination. You might dream of owning your own home one day. Your dream may be simply to find the love of your life. Whatever it is - write it down. Create a timeline for reaching that dream and then start working on what has to happen for you to realize it. Think about being very specific. Martin Luther King, Jr. was extremely specific in his speech. He spoke of black boys and girls in Alabama being friends with white black and boys. He talked about working together, praying together, struggling together knowing that everyone will be free one day. What a visionary he was. His life was cut short, and honestly (and without sounding morbid) your life may also be cut short before reaching your dream, but you still have to have one. We aren't guaranteed a tomorrow in this life - but that doesn't mean we don't work and sweat for what we want today. Share your dreams with your family, your friends, with me. Get people on board to help keep you accountable to reaching that dream. Have friends share ideas on how to get there sooner. Find resources to realize your dream efficiently. It's out there - right in front of you - can you see it? I can.
You can do it - no matter what your dream is - you can do it. Start today.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEMXaTktUfA
That famous Martin Luther King, Jr. "I have a dream" speech is great. It is, was and will be one of the most amazing and moving speeches ever written. It touches each of us in a different way. Some will watch with tears in our eyes because we have felt racism. Some will watch with pride because we have helped advance his dream. Some will be sad because we still have so far to go.
My purpose of sharing this video with you today is to showcase just how important it is for us to have a dream. Because without one, we are just a bag flesh and bones walking around this Earth and in our lives without a true purpose. With dreams we can focus our energy on doing those activities that help us reach those dreams. Without dreams we are like a weary traveller without a destination. With dreams we have shared and common goals with those around us. Without dreams we are alone and vacant of community and companionship.
So, if you are reading this and do not have a dream for your future - get one (heck - get 100). It doesn't have to be Martin Luther King, Jr. big. But it has to be big to you. It might be to finally take a cruise to a favorite travel destination. You might dream of owning your own home one day. Your dream may be simply to find the love of your life. Whatever it is - write it down. Create a timeline for reaching that dream and then start working on what has to happen for you to realize it. Think about being very specific. Martin Luther King, Jr. was extremely specific in his speech. He spoke of black boys and girls in Alabama being friends with white black and boys. He talked about working together, praying together, struggling together knowing that everyone will be free one day. What a visionary he was. His life was cut short, and honestly (and without sounding morbid) your life may also be cut short before reaching your dream, but you still have to have one. We aren't guaranteed a tomorrow in this life - but that doesn't mean we don't work and sweat for what we want today. Share your dreams with your family, your friends, with me. Get people on board to help keep you accountable to reaching that dream. Have friends share ideas on how to get there sooner. Find resources to realize your dream efficiently. It's out there - right in front of you - can you see it? I can.
You can do it - no matter what your dream is - you can do it. Start today.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Finding True Meaning in your Life
Check out this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfeXxkbgCVE
When I first saw this video, I was taken by how service oriented it was. I mean, come on, it is called Get Service. But then I got to thinking that sometimes I am that guy in the car. Sometimes I am the guy serving coffee, or the girl sitting on the bistro sofa. On any given day - I could be anyone of those people on the video. And so could you.
Last week, in a coaching session I was talking to a client about finding meaning in life (of course they know who they are - I asked for permission to use my quote with ya'll). My statement to this client was "in our quest to find the true meaning in EVERYTHING we do, we forget to find any meaning in ANYTHING that we do." That really hit home with my client - and with me. I actually wrote down the quote and reflected on it over the last few days.
Then, I get to work today and Coach Steve sends over this video and the dots just seemed to get connected. Let me tell you what I mean.
Sometimes we're so busy being meaningful that the ones in our life get left behind. Our "quest" as I state above shouldn't be about doing everything right, with the highest impact, each and every time we do something. It should be about finding the meaning in what we do and for those we are doing it with/for.
The video reflects that pretty well. How many people are hurt, in mourning, or just need a break - but we are too busy with our own lives to see it? How many people do we push aside in order to achieve excellence in a completely meaningless task? Maybe it is time for each of us to "own" a special pair of glasses that force us to see the truth in those around us. I wish I could figure out where to get a pair myself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfeXxkbgCVE
When I first saw this video, I was taken by how service oriented it was. I mean, come on, it is called Get Service. But then I got to thinking that sometimes I am that guy in the car. Sometimes I am the guy serving coffee, or the girl sitting on the bistro sofa. On any given day - I could be anyone of those people on the video. And so could you.
Last week, in a coaching session I was talking to a client about finding meaning in life (of course they know who they are - I asked for permission to use my quote with ya'll). My statement to this client was "in our quest to find the true meaning in EVERYTHING we do, we forget to find any meaning in ANYTHING that we do." That really hit home with my client - and with me. I actually wrote down the quote and reflected on it over the last few days.
Then, I get to work today and Coach Steve sends over this video and the dots just seemed to get connected. Let me tell you what I mean.
Sometimes we're so busy being meaningful that the ones in our life get left behind. Our "quest" as I state above shouldn't be about doing everything right, with the highest impact, each and every time we do something. It should be about finding the meaning in what we do and for those we are doing it with/for.
The video reflects that pretty well. How many people are hurt, in mourning, or just need a break - but we are too busy with our own lives to see it? How many people do we push aside in order to achieve excellence in a completely meaningless task? Maybe it is time for each of us to "own" a special pair of glasses that force us to see the truth in those around us. I wish I could figure out where to get a pair myself.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Just Ask
When considering what I was going to write about this week, I really felt torn. Of course I could have written about execution, initiation, motivation or any other "tion" word that business professionals love to talk about. Heck, I love to talk about that stuff too. So it was no surprise when I reflected back on my coaching notes this week and discovered another word that seemed to be a theme during my sessions. CONFUSION.
Confusion about what is expected of them. Confusion about why their employees just weren't getting it. Confusion surrounding procedures or policies. Confusion on keeping the peace in their families.
So today I want to talk about something I like to title "Just Ask".
Think of "just ask" as your invitation to talk to your employer, your employees, your customers. Think of being transparent with those in your life, and not being afraid to ask questions that will clarify uncomfortable or unknown situations.
For example, if you are experiencing low morale at work, ask your employees why this is happening. You might do it in the form of an anonymous survey, a suggestion box or something similar. If people are taking the time to fill out those items, then take the time to read them and consider how to implement their ideas with the desire to make it better. Look for common themes in their responses. Does the majority of your employees feel unappreciated? If so, schedule in some appreciation in whatever form you feel would fit.
"Just ask" is applicable with employees, employers, family or friends. Getting to the bottom of what is going on is easier than you think. Sometimes you need to "JUST ASK".
Confusion about what is expected of them. Confusion about why their employees just weren't getting it. Confusion surrounding procedures or policies. Confusion on keeping the peace in their families.
So today I want to talk about something I like to title "Just Ask".
Think of "just ask" as your invitation to talk to your employer, your employees, your customers. Think of being transparent with those in your life, and not being afraid to ask questions that will clarify uncomfortable or unknown situations.
For example, if you are experiencing low morale at work, ask your employees why this is happening. You might do it in the form of an anonymous survey, a suggestion box or something similar. If people are taking the time to fill out those items, then take the time to read them and consider how to implement their ideas with the desire to make it better. Look for common themes in their responses. Does the majority of your employees feel unappreciated? If so, schedule in some appreciation in whatever form you feel would fit.
"Just ask" is applicable with employees, employers, family or friends. Getting to the bottom of what is going on is easier than you think. Sometimes you need to "JUST ASK".
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Exercise Those Muscles
I take private Pilate's instruction with a wonderful teacher named Brooke. She has been working with me over the past month or so on engaging certain muscles and muscle groups to become stronger.
At first I honestly didn't have a clue how I was going to ever get to the point where I could scoop out my belly and roll myself down onto the machine. I mean, yeah, I understood what she was saying, but understanding it and making my body do it are two different things.
I started noticing how I engage my muscles yesterday while doing some hill runs. In the past I would plow through them, but my back would hurt a little afterwards. Yesterday I decided to make a small shift in my spine (engaging my abs and pushing my hips forward just a little as I was running up hill) and do you know what happened? I ran faster and had no pain afterwards.
This morning, while in Pilate's, I told Brooke about the run. She just smiled (the kind of smile you get when you are trying to teach someone something and then all of a sudden they get it) and said she was proud of me.
OK - so I have been talking about working out in today's post - but the analogy I am trying to get at is that no matter what we do in life, sometimes it is the small adjustments that have the biggest impact. If you are a sales person, making just a small adjustment to a prospect call script could mean the difference between losing or getting the sale.
Think about the "business muscles" you either have not developed or have been resting for awhile. Are there any "strength moves" you could do to bulk them up? Can you lift heavier weights while at work (it's analogy folks - remember? I am not suggesting lifting actual weights - I am suggesting doing something harder, or with more effort). Are there more people you need to incorporate into your work "workouts"?
What can you gain today by putting forth more effort? Just engaging on a deeper level may have you running those hills faster and more efficiently in no time.
At first I honestly didn't have a clue how I was going to ever get to the point where I could scoop out my belly and roll myself down onto the machine. I mean, yeah, I understood what she was saying, but understanding it and making my body do it are two different things.
I started noticing how I engage my muscles yesterday while doing some hill runs. In the past I would plow through them, but my back would hurt a little afterwards. Yesterday I decided to make a small shift in my spine (engaging my abs and pushing my hips forward just a little as I was running up hill) and do you know what happened? I ran faster and had no pain afterwards.
This morning, while in Pilate's, I told Brooke about the run. She just smiled (the kind of smile you get when you are trying to teach someone something and then all of a sudden they get it) and said she was proud of me.
OK - so I have been talking about working out in today's post - but the analogy I am trying to get at is that no matter what we do in life, sometimes it is the small adjustments that have the biggest impact. If you are a sales person, making just a small adjustment to a prospect call script could mean the difference between losing or getting the sale.
Think about the "business muscles" you either have not developed or have been resting for awhile. Are there any "strength moves" you could do to bulk them up? Can you lift heavier weights while at work (it's analogy folks - remember? I am not suggesting lifting actual weights - I am suggesting doing something harder, or with more effort). Are there more people you need to incorporate into your work "workouts"?
What can you gain today by putting forth more effort? Just engaging on a deeper level may have you running those hills faster and more efficiently in no time.
Monday, July 26, 2010
What do you say?
Reba McIntyre sings a song called What Do You Say. For all my country music loving friends reading this, you probably remember it coming out in the 90's. I really like it.
The song is about what to say in uncomfortable situations. She gives a few examples. One is what to say to your young son when he asks what the XXX means outside of an adult bookstore. Another is what to say to your teenage daughter when she calls to ask you to pick her up from a party because she drank too much. Her last is what to say to a spouse on their death bed. Check out the 3 lines of lyrics below:
What do you say in a moment like this
When you can't find the words to tell it like it is
Just bite your tongue and let your heart lead the way
It seems that each day we all get an opportunity to speak the truth to those that we love or those that we lead. It is a privilege to get to be the person that communicates this truth to those in our lives. The catch is, sometimes it isn't something someone wants to hear. Or, we may not be speaking it with kindness or compassion.
Communication is tricky. We each have our own style, and it is comfortable for us to communicate in that style. For example - you may be a people person, social butterfly, life of the party type of communicator. You love to speak with enthusiasm and are optimistic that those you speak to want to hear what you have to say. Well, if you are speaking to a introverted, task oriented individual, you could come across as overly enthusiastic and disorganized - which in turn will shut down that introverted individual.
On the flip side, if you are an extremely detail oriented individual - loading up someone who is not with too many details is a no-no.
So, how do you figure out how to speak truth to someone who may not share your communication style? First, consider getting a DISC profile. It will spell out exactly how you like to be communicated to as well as take you through an exercise to identify those in your life and what style they fit into. Also, if you are a leader, consider getting your team profiled as well. Second, take a moment to slow down and think about the person you are talking to. Don't jump to conclusions about them or their specific profile. Ask yourself to pause before speaking truth to them, and then consider how to move forward with your communication.
The better you communicate with those around you, the more opportunity you'll have to positively impact their lives.
The song is about what to say in uncomfortable situations. She gives a few examples. One is what to say to your young son when he asks what the XXX means outside of an adult bookstore. Another is what to say to your teenage daughter when she calls to ask you to pick her up from a party because she drank too much. Her last is what to say to a spouse on their death bed. Check out the 3 lines of lyrics below:
What do you say in a moment like this
When you can't find the words to tell it like it is
Just bite your tongue and let your heart lead the way
It seems that each day we all get an opportunity to speak the truth to those that we love or those that we lead. It is a privilege to get to be the person that communicates this truth to those in our lives. The catch is, sometimes it isn't something someone wants to hear. Or, we may not be speaking it with kindness or compassion.
Communication is tricky. We each have our own style, and it is comfortable for us to communicate in that style. For example - you may be a people person, social butterfly, life of the party type of communicator. You love to speak with enthusiasm and are optimistic that those you speak to want to hear what you have to say. Well, if you are speaking to a introverted, task oriented individual, you could come across as overly enthusiastic and disorganized - which in turn will shut down that introverted individual.
On the flip side, if you are an extremely detail oriented individual - loading up someone who is not with too many details is a no-no.
So, how do you figure out how to speak truth to someone who may not share your communication style? First, consider getting a DISC profile. It will spell out exactly how you like to be communicated to as well as take you through an exercise to identify those in your life and what style they fit into. Also, if you are a leader, consider getting your team profiled as well. Second, take a moment to slow down and think about the person you are talking to. Don't jump to conclusions about them or their specific profile. Ask yourself to pause before speaking truth to them, and then consider how to move forward with your communication.
The better you communicate with those around you, the more opportunity you'll have to positively impact their lives.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Swing Vote
Today I watched the movie Swing Vote. If you haven't seen it - I highly recommend it.
Besides the humor, the great cast (Kevin Costner, the late/great Denis Hopper, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer and more) and the wonderful daddy/daughter moments in the movie, I really felt drawn in by the overall message.
Or should I say the overall two messages that I took away from the movie.
One - never trade in your convictions and your long term goals for a short term victory. It was pretty comical how the Democrat (Denis Hopper) was spouting pro-life support and anti-immigration in order to get Kevin Costner's character to like him. It was equally laughable to see the Republican (Kesley Grammer)running an add for gay marriage and green living. What wasn't funny was the fact that many of us out there today (me included at times - I don't sit here in judgement) toss aside our beliefs if we feel it will "win" us something in return. I don't mean we'll kill people to get the last iPad, I mean the more important, everyday stuff like respect, humility, patience.
Two - when are we going to wake up and realize that if we don't start helping people now, tomorrow we may not have a chance (yes, I understand I say this a lot in my posts - repetition is after all the mother of persuasion isn't it). A great line from that movie goes something like this, "If we are the richest country in the world, why can't so many of us afford to live here." Wow, that really hit me pretty hard today. I ask myself, what am I doing to change that? What can I do to step up my commitment to helping? How can I be more proactive?
So, for a little movie I thought would be a refreshing 2 hour break from all of my thinking, it made me think the whole way through.
If you don't have a set of values that you live by, by all means, figure them out, write them down, and share them with those important to you. Then, the next time you have to make a decision, pull them out and ask yourself if the decision will honor your stated values.
Also, if you aren't contributing to this world we live in right now, consider how you can. What talents, hobbies or interests do you have that can make a difference in the lives of those around you? If you are already doing something, consider if you feel it is enough. It may be - and if that is the case - I want to thank you. If it isn't - step up and do more. You'll be the better for it, and so will the rest of us.
And finally, if you haven't seen the movie - rent it. It was a great one to watch and I believe Denis Hopper's last.
Besides the humor, the great cast (Kevin Costner, the late/great Denis Hopper, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer and more) and the wonderful daddy/daughter moments in the movie, I really felt drawn in by the overall message.
Or should I say the overall two messages that I took away from the movie.
One - never trade in your convictions and your long term goals for a short term victory. It was pretty comical how the Democrat (Denis Hopper) was spouting pro-life support and anti-immigration in order to get Kevin Costner's character to like him. It was equally laughable to see the Republican (Kesley Grammer)running an add for gay marriage and green living. What wasn't funny was the fact that many of us out there today (me included at times - I don't sit here in judgement) toss aside our beliefs if we feel it will "win" us something in return. I don't mean we'll kill people to get the last iPad, I mean the more important, everyday stuff like respect, humility, patience.
Two - when are we going to wake up and realize that if we don't start helping people now, tomorrow we may not have a chance (yes, I understand I say this a lot in my posts - repetition is after all the mother of persuasion isn't it). A great line from that movie goes something like this, "If we are the richest country in the world, why can't so many of us afford to live here." Wow, that really hit me pretty hard today. I ask myself, what am I doing to change that? What can I do to step up my commitment to helping? How can I be more proactive?
So, for a little movie I thought would be a refreshing 2 hour break from all of my thinking, it made me think the whole way through.
If you don't have a set of values that you live by, by all means, figure them out, write them down, and share them with those important to you. Then, the next time you have to make a decision, pull them out and ask yourself if the decision will honor your stated values.
Also, if you aren't contributing to this world we live in right now, consider how you can. What talents, hobbies or interests do you have that can make a difference in the lives of those around you? If you are already doing something, consider if you feel it is enough. It may be - and if that is the case - I want to thank you. If it isn't - step up and do more. You'll be the better for it, and so will the rest of us.
And finally, if you haven't seen the movie - rent it. It was a great one to watch and I believe Denis Hopper's last.
A Change Is A Coming
As I mentioned I am making some changes to my blog.
First - I will be merging this personal blog into a professional blog with Building Champions. I am very excited. This will take my viewership from about 60 to over 400 - yeah.
Second - I bought a car. Yes folks, I said it, I bought a car. A Mercedes to boot, so the four month experiment turned into a two month experiment. I guess I should be upset or disappointed with myself but in actuality I am quite proud.
Proud because I really learned a lesson about myself. I learned that I wasn't as shallow as I thought I was. That I wasn't as vain as I thought. That I love the city I live in and the people who live here. That I am kind and that I give back.
Now, I am not trying to pump myself up and brag about myself. I am just trying to show you that when you reflect on yourself, really reflect, you come to realize that you aren't a horrible person and you free yourself up to fall in love with yourself.
How many of you need that today? How many of you reading this beat yourself up for all the little things you do wrong and forget to pat yourself on the back for all the things you are doing right?
First - I will be merging this personal blog into a professional blog with Building Champions. I am very excited. This will take my viewership from about 60 to over 400 - yeah.
Second - I bought a car. Yes folks, I said it, I bought a car. A Mercedes to boot, so the four month experiment turned into a two month experiment. I guess I should be upset or disappointed with myself but in actuality I am quite proud.
Proud because I really learned a lesson about myself. I learned that I wasn't as shallow as I thought I was. That I wasn't as vain as I thought. That I love the city I live in and the people who live here. That I am kind and that I give back.
Now, I am not trying to pump myself up and brag about myself. I am just trying to show you that when you reflect on yourself, really reflect, you come to realize that you aren't a horrible person and you free yourself up to fall in love with yourself.
How many of you need that today? How many of you reading this beat yourself up for all the little things you do wrong and forget to pat yourself on the back for all the things you are doing right?
Monday, July 19, 2010
What If?
If you ask anyone from the ages of 10 - 35 what time is it - they don't look at their watches - they look at their cell phone for the answer. Have you ever noticed that?
If you drive down the street and look at the drivers in the cars next to you - they are talking on their phones - not looking at the road in front of them. Have you ever noticed that?
If you go to a restaurant and observe the patrons sitting around you - they are surfing the web or texting their friends - not talking to the people at the table with them. Have you ever noticed that?
One more for fun. If you have to connect with a prospect or update a client of a product or service - you email them instead of picking up the phone and calling them or getting in the car to go see them. Have you ever noticed that?
Now I am not saying that we shouldn't use every resource we have to live a more efficient life. I don't believe in wasting time just for times sake. Heck - I even coach my clients to use their time more efficiently in order to be able to get more done. But what I do notice is that we have gone from a society of relationship builders and maintainers to a society of "get it done as quickly as possible so that I can get to the next person" people.
What if we just focused on the people in front of us? What if we gave the gift everyone of us desires and deserves - the gift of undivided attention. What if we made a little less money - but we impacted peoples life more positively - MORE. What if we just put down that phone during a family meal and asked our kids how they are doing?
I know that earning a living and being more efficient is important. But is it more important than raising good kids, than being a good spouse, than loving our neighbors?
I hope you all consider this today - as you start a busy work week. Where can you be more present in the lives of the people that matter most to you this week?
I just hope that once my boss reads this I don't get a "Jerry McGuire like" send off.
If you drive down the street and look at the drivers in the cars next to you - they are talking on their phones - not looking at the road in front of them. Have you ever noticed that?
If you go to a restaurant and observe the patrons sitting around you - they are surfing the web or texting their friends - not talking to the people at the table with them. Have you ever noticed that?
One more for fun. If you have to connect with a prospect or update a client of a product or service - you email them instead of picking up the phone and calling them or getting in the car to go see them. Have you ever noticed that?
Now I am not saying that we shouldn't use every resource we have to live a more efficient life. I don't believe in wasting time just for times sake. Heck - I even coach my clients to use their time more efficiently in order to be able to get more done. But what I do notice is that we have gone from a society of relationship builders and maintainers to a society of "get it done as quickly as possible so that I can get to the next person" people.
What if we just focused on the people in front of us? What if we gave the gift everyone of us desires and deserves - the gift of undivided attention. What if we made a little less money - but we impacted peoples life more positively - MORE. What if we just put down that phone during a family meal and asked our kids how they are doing?
I know that earning a living and being more efficient is important. But is it more important than raising good kids, than being a good spouse, than loving our neighbors?
I hope you all consider this today - as you start a busy work week. Where can you be more present in the lives of the people that matter most to you this week?
I just hope that once my boss reads this I don't get a "Jerry McGuire like" send off.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Inside or Out?
Today I have to do what is called Fartlek's. For those of you out there that aren't runners, they are when you run at a regular pace, then sprint during certain times, and then return - all within the distance allocated on your run sheet for that day.
I enjoy doing them on my treadmill for several reasons. The primary reason being that I can monitor how fast I run and increase or decrease my speed in a controlled environment. This is the control freak in me I guess (ok, no guessing, this is the control freak in me).
I know that when you are training for something it is best to mirror the conditions of the race, but I really hate to do speed work outside. Also, I don't plan on sprinting or doing any speed work during my 3 legs of the Hood To Coast race in August, so am I really hurting my training by being on the treadmill? I mean, does it matter if I run inside during these days?
So I got to thinking, how much of the things we do right now or the choices we have to make today are do or die situations? What if we allowed ourselves to just relax and take a different path to doing what needs to be done. Now, I am not endorsing mediocrity I promise. I am just saying it is ok to give ourselves permission to do something not deemed "the best way" every once in awhile (or in this case - each Thursday). What do you have on your to do list today that you can accomplish differently?
I enjoy doing them on my treadmill for several reasons. The primary reason being that I can monitor how fast I run and increase or decrease my speed in a controlled environment. This is the control freak in me I guess (ok, no guessing, this is the control freak in me).
I know that when you are training for something it is best to mirror the conditions of the race, but I really hate to do speed work outside. Also, I don't plan on sprinting or doing any speed work during my 3 legs of the Hood To Coast race in August, so am I really hurting my training by being on the treadmill? I mean, does it matter if I run inside during these days?
So I got to thinking, how much of the things we do right now or the choices we have to make today are do or die situations? What if we allowed ourselves to just relax and take a different path to doing what needs to be done. Now, I am not endorsing mediocrity I promise. I am just saying it is ok to give ourselves permission to do something not deemed "the best way" every once in awhile (or in this case - each Thursday). What do you have on your to do list today that you can accomplish differently?
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Irresistible Revolution
First I would like to thank my friend Jen Jones for recommending the book Irresistible Revolution by Jim Wallis. I just started it yesterday - but - Oh My Gosh it is GREAT.
Yesterday Rich and I ate dinner on our patio. The weather was perfect. It was during our after dinner - relaxing time - that I told Rich how overwhelmed I have been feeling lately. It is like I woke up last week and said "how the heck did I get here?" When did I become an adult. One that has to take care of a household, hold down a full time job and be a step mother to GROWN kids? I am not sure if what is going on with me is just a stressful time or the fact that I turn 40 in 6 months and maybe the concept of a mid-life crisis isn't so crazy after all. Anyways, I was feeling overwhelmed and sharing my feelings with Rich. I stared whining about how I wanted a car - a nice car - any darn car - but I wanted to give up on this experiment.
So this morning while I was riding my bike (no dog walk, those poor beasts, they are so neglected) I decided to just stop, grab coffee and read a little of my book. For those of you that don't get up early, I encourage you to try it out. The weather is usually amazing and you can actually sit back and relax a little. It was heavenly.
While reading page 21 I was struck by a statement. Check it out:
What if a fragile world is more attracted to God's vision of interdependence and sacrificial sharing than to the mirage of independence and materialism?
Yes - yes - yes people. This is what I have been talking about, blogging about, reflecting on. When we sit down and realize we are here together, like it or not, we can then start making changes for the greater good. We can do for others before we do for ourselves (without neglecting ourselves of course). We can share our resources versus hoarding them away for a day that may never come. We can share our hearts, our homes, our lives. WHAT IF we put aside our desire for more and put forth our desire to serve?
It was like the switch of my inner most thoughts was flipped. What a refresher.
Not sure what else to say other than this. So have a nice day.
Yesterday Rich and I ate dinner on our patio. The weather was perfect. It was during our after dinner - relaxing time - that I told Rich how overwhelmed I have been feeling lately. It is like I woke up last week and said "how the heck did I get here?" When did I become an adult. One that has to take care of a household, hold down a full time job and be a step mother to GROWN kids? I am not sure if what is going on with me is just a stressful time or the fact that I turn 40 in 6 months and maybe the concept of a mid-life crisis isn't so crazy after all. Anyways, I was feeling overwhelmed and sharing my feelings with Rich. I stared whining about how I wanted a car - a nice car - any darn car - but I wanted to give up on this experiment.
So this morning while I was riding my bike (no dog walk, those poor beasts, they are so neglected) I decided to just stop, grab coffee and read a little of my book. For those of you that don't get up early, I encourage you to try it out. The weather is usually amazing and you can actually sit back and relax a little. It was heavenly.
While reading page 21 I was struck by a statement. Check it out:
What if a fragile world is more attracted to God's vision of interdependence and sacrificial sharing than to the mirage of independence and materialism?
Yes - yes - yes people. This is what I have been talking about, blogging about, reflecting on. When we sit down and realize we are here together, like it or not, we can then start making changes for the greater good. We can do for others before we do for ourselves (without neglecting ourselves of course). We can share our resources versus hoarding them away for a day that may never come. We can share our hearts, our homes, our lives. WHAT IF we put aside our desire for more and put forth our desire to serve?
It was like the switch of my inner most thoughts was flipped. What a refresher.
Not sure what else to say other than this. So have a nice day.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Living in the Present or Planning for the Future?
On my walk today I started thinking about some of my first posts back in the Spring. The lilacs were in full bloom and the air was crisp. I was truly happy and living in the moment - and telling ya'll all about how you should to.
Then Summer hit and I was taking in the smell of honeysuckles and fresh cut grass and living in the moment - and telling ya'll all about how you should to.
Today there were no lilacs in bloom or honeysuckle scented winds. But there was the beauty of the sun coming up early over the creek and the warmth of a morning that will soon turn into a 100 degree day. So I did what I do almost every moment of every day - I reflected.
I reflected on how many times I (or the news, a magazine or a friend) has mentioned how living in the moment is so important. How we must be grateful for this day because we aren't necessarily promised a tomorrow.
Then I remembered all the times I have helped clients plan for their future. Telling them to cast a vision today so that we will be set up for the future. About how planning helps us get to where we want to go and without it who knows where we will end up.
Wait a minute - does this make sense. Can we truly live in the moment while planning for the future? And if so, how do we do that? Do we devote 1 hour a day living in the present while devoting 23 hours focusing on the future? Do we split our time between the two? Isn't this called multi-tasking, and if so, isn't it discouraged in the world of productivity. Is "father time" in a tug of war contest with "father right now" for our devotion?
Maybe this is some sort of defense mechanism. Maybe we are future focused when the things right in front of us aren't so pleasant (like an unhappy marriage or recently diagnosed illness). Maybe we live in the moment when the future is kind of icky (like realizing that one day our parents will die, or that our children will leave the nest). Maybe having both situations helps keep the balance between not caring about anything at all and caring too much about everything.
I don't know - what do you think?
PS - hey - looking to increase my following. Would my current followers be willing to post this on their Facebook page or other social networking outlet with a kind request for your network to follow my blog? Sure would be appreciated. Thanks.
Then Summer hit and I was taking in the smell of honeysuckles and fresh cut grass and living in the moment - and telling ya'll all about how you should to.
Today there were no lilacs in bloom or honeysuckle scented winds. But there was the beauty of the sun coming up early over the creek and the warmth of a morning that will soon turn into a 100 degree day. So I did what I do almost every moment of every day - I reflected.
I reflected on how many times I (or the news, a magazine or a friend) has mentioned how living in the moment is so important. How we must be grateful for this day because we aren't necessarily promised a tomorrow.
Then I remembered all the times I have helped clients plan for their future. Telling them to cast a vision today so that we will be set up for the future. About how planning helps us get to where we want to go and without it who knows where we will end up.
Wait a minute - does this make sense. Can we truly live in the moment while planning for the future? And if so, how do we do that? Do we devote 1 hour a day living in the present while devoting 23 hours focusing on the future? Do we split our time between the two? Isn't this called multi-tasking, and if so, isn't it discouraged in the world of productivity. Is "father time" in a tug of war contest with "father right now" for our devotion?
Maybe this is some sort of defense mechanism. Maybe we are future focused when the things right in front of us aren't so pleasant (like an unhappy marriage or recently diagnosed illness). Maybe we live in the moment when the future is kind of icky (like realizing that one day our parents will die, or that our children will leave the nest). Maybe having both situations helps keep the balance between not caring about anything at all and caring too much about everything.
I don't know - what do you think?
PS - hey - looking to increase my following. Would my current followers be willing to post this on their Facebook page or other social networking outlet with a kind request for your network to follow my blog? Sure would be appreciated. Thanks.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Change your Behavior, Change your Life
I just finished the book Influencers. It was a great book that teaches you how to be an influencer in your life. How to make positive change occur. Now the book was one of those books that you don't just read through and put down. It was one that you read a chapter, take notes, go back to your notes and then reread - so I will not be doing it justice in today's post by any means.
What I do want to discuss today is a little nugget I took from it about behavior. The book states that if you want to change something (for example, your eating habits or work environment) first you have to make a behavior change. Behavior changes are those little things we do that can impact us in a big way. Here is an example - if you want to lose weight - a behavior change for you could be to immediately brush your teeth after a meal. This helps with snacking after you are already full. See - by adding the behavior to brush your teeth after you eat, you lower your risk of unnecessary calories therefore taking in less calories resulting in weight loss. I am not saying that is all it takes to lose weight, but it is a simple and effective behavior that will help.
I write about this today because as I was preparing to take my walk with the dogs this morning I had forgotten to bring a bag to pick up trash along the route the last several times I took the walk. It wasn't that I didn't care about helping make my neighborhood beautiful and trash free, it was that I just kept forgetting to bring a bag with me when I went. So today I used the nugget from the Influencer book and decided to make a behavior change. My behavior change was to keep a pile of bags for trash pickup next to the dogs leashes. Now, when I go to get their leashes I will now be reminded to grab a bag - therefore being able to pick up trash on the walk - resulting in less trash in the neighborhood. See how easy that is?
What is one behavior you could do to make a change for something you have in your heart to change? I would love to hear about it.
What I do want to discuss today is a little nugget I took from it about behavior. The book states that if you want to change something (for example, your eating habits or work environment) first you have to make a behavior change. Behavior changes are those little things we do that can impact us in a big way. Here is an example - if you want to lose weight - a behavior change for you could be to immediately brush your teeth after a meal. This helps with snacking after you are already full. See - by adding the behavior to brush your teeth after you eat, you lower your risk of unnecessary calories therefore taking in less calories resulting in weight loss. I am not saying that is all it takes to lose weight, but it is a simple and effective behavior that will help.
I write about this today because as I was preparing to take my walk with the dogs this morning I had forgotten to bring a bag to pick up trash along the route the last several times I took the walk. It wasn't that I didn't care about helping make my neighborhood beautiful and trash free, it was that I just kept forgetting to bring a bag with me when I went. So today I used the nugget from the Influencer book and decided to make a behavior change. My behavior change was to keep a pile of bags for trash pickup next to the dogs leashes. Now, when I go to get their leashes I will now be reminded to grab a bag - therefore being able to pick up trash on the walk - resulting in less trash in the neighborhood. See how easy that is?
What is one behavior you could do to make a change for something you have in your heart to change? I would love to hear about it.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Know What's Worse Than Not Owning a Car??
Having no computer. Yes folks, today my computer crashed. First day back in Denver. No car, no computer. Here is what is the worst about all of this - I back up my computer monthly (read into this people - this is obviously not my first computer crash). So I have plans to wake up Sunday morning, take out my zip drive and save all my files, pictures, presentations, etc. to my zip so that I can feel protected.
NOT TO BE DONE. I turn on my computer and all I get is a blank screen and a very loud beeping noise. I try everything to figure it out, no luck. So I end up taking my church time to head to Best Buy to figure it out with the Geek Squad. Looks like the motherboard is fried.
I am so sad for so many reasons. First I have been in Florida (as I have mentioned a thousand times already) for 3 weeks which means I have missed 2 Sundays of church. I love my church and my friends there, so I was bummed to miss them (hi church friends - see you Thursday). Second, I work from home on my computer. All my emails and documents are on that computer. Also, I have 3 separate email accounts that all merge into one Outlook account which is now gone also. No worries though friends, for $150 I am getting it all that backed up in 3 - 4 days. Lucky me.
What's worse, I woke up at 6 this morning to get all organized after being gone for so long. I figured I could do all the things I need to do (take a walk with the dogs, ride my bike to Safeway and get breakfast so that Rich and I could eat together before I head off to church, do some yard work). Well, the dishwasher broke (or so I thought), the dogs were a total wreck on the walk, the hot water heater was off so I took a cold shower and I had to scarf down breakfast in order to get out of the door on time. Also, I had a wedding shower to go to after church for a friend getting married in 40 some days and I had to cut that short so I could go buy another computer.
So - here comes the honest to goodness truth I promised ya'll when writing this. I literally had an emotional brake down and cried to Rich on the phone in the Best Buy parking lot. I was crying so hard that I had a headache for about 3 hours later.
Geez, what does a girl need to do to have a wonderful, church filled, girls shower Sunday??????? If anyone knows, please share.
My hope and dream - each of you had a wonderful Sunday, filled with only good friends, good family and good times. Good night.
NOT TO BE DONE. I turn on my computer and all I get is a blank screen and a very loud beeping noise. I try everything to figure it out, no luck. So I end up taking my church time to head to Best Buy to figure it out with the Geek Squad. Looks like the motherboard is fried.
I am so sad for so many reasons. First I have been in Florida (as I have mentioned a thousand times already) for 3 weeks which means I have missed 2 Sundays of church. I love my church and my friends there, so I was bummed to miss them (hi church friends - see you Thursday). Second, I work from home on my computer. All my emails and documents are on that computer. Also, I have 3 separate email accounts that all merge into one Outlook account which is now gone also. No worries though friends, for $150 I am getting it all that backed up in 3 - 4 days. Lucky me.
What's worse, I woke up at 6 this morning to get all organized after being gone for so long. I figured I could do all the things I need to do (take a walk with the dogs, ride my bike to Safeway and get breakfast so that Rich and I could eat together before I head off to church, do some yard work). Well, the dishwasher broke (or so I thought), the dogs were a total wreck on the walk, the hot water heater was off so I took a cold shower and I had to scarf down breakfast in order to get out of the door on time. Also, I had a wedding shower to go to after church for a friend getting married in 40 some days and I had to cut that short so I could go buy another computer.
So - here comes the honest to goodness truth I promised ya'll when writing this. I literally had an emotional brake down and cried to Rich on the phone in the Best Buy parking lot. I was crying so hard that I had a headache for about 3 hours later.
Geez, what does a girl need to do to have a wonderful, church filled, girls shower Sunday??????? If anyone knows, please share.
My hope and dream - each of you had a wonderful Sunday, filled with only good friends, good family and good times. Good night.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Heading back to Denver
Rich and I have been in Florida for about 3 weeks. I love Florida for all of the obvious reasons (pool in the back yard, walk to the beach, etc. etc. etc.) The other reason is that I have a full time car here. In Denver I don't. This stinks.
Here is the conversation Rich and I had yesterday over dinner.
Me - We head back to Denver tomorrow.
Rich - I know.
Me - I don't have a car in Denver.
Rich - I know.
Me - I want a Mercedes convertible.
Rich - No
Me - Why
Ric - Because you said you wanted to experience not owning a car for 4 months.
Me - I know. Darn it.
So, there you have it. Me trying to snake out of this whole thing for the pure pleasure of leather, Navigation and a hard top. So weak is the soul sometimes.
Thank God for Rich keeping me on track. I love that man.
Here is the conversation Rich and I had yesterday over dinner.
Me - We head back to Denver tomorrow.
Rich - I know.
Me - I don't have a car in Denver.
Rich - I know.
Me - I want a Mercedes convertible.
Rich - No
Me - Why
Ric - Because you said you wanted to experience not owning a car for 4 months.
Me - I know. Darn it.
So, there you have it. Me trying to snake out of this whole thing for the pure pleasure of leather, Navigation and a hard top. So weak is the soul sometimes.
Thank God for Rich keeping me on track. I love that man.
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