We’re living in a time of tremendous upheaval — a global pandemic, widespread economic distress, and urgent calls for social justice and structural changes. With everything in flux these days and months, many of us are taking a good hard look at our lives. From where I sit, aligning your life, work and relationships with …
What can you learn from the natural world about growth, transition, and transformation? That’s something I think about a lot. You see, when I’m not designing and facilitating workshops for organizations and teams, I like to spend time in nature. Getting my hands in the soil and caring for plants really grounds me. (See what …
What can you learn about leadership from gardening? Read More »
“Tell me what you pay attention to, and I will tell you who you are.” ― José Ortega y Gasset That quote came to mind recently when I was preparing to facilitate a session on values and leadership to a group of mid-level managers. We kicked off with the lifeline reflection, a deceptively simple but powerful tool. …
Some people talk about “putting on your big girl panties” when you’re nervous or face a challenge. For me, that means putting on my sankofa bracelet, a gift from my father. The symbol is an ostrich reaching back for its egg.A dear Ghanian friend taught me that in “twi”, one of the native languages of Ghana, “sankofa” literally …
Whoa! There is so much going on in this mosaic tile that I spotted in Málaga, Spain. First up – the compass rose smack dab in the field of blue. Also known as a wind rose or rose of the winds this symbol indicates the four cardinal directions. Look at any compass, map, or nautical chart …
What’s taking your breath away today?For me, it’s the quiet and steady fall of leaves as we transition more fully into a new season.Some are already nestled on the forest floor. Others are only just now beginning to let go and drift to earth.What about you? Are you allowing yourself to move at your own …
Did you know that “merry” comes from an Old German word for “slow” or “leisurely”? I know! Not the vibe we typically associate with the end of the year, right? In the holiday hoopla, we forget all too easily that relaxing, reminiscing, savoring moments alone or with family and friends, and simply BEING are what give us energy. Nature takes breaks and so can – and so should – we! So, as this …
To be honest, it always takes me some extra time to warm up to the new year. What about you? Luckily, I’ve learned that, if you bundle up well, go for a wander, and get curious, you may stumble on a nice surprise. I sure did, thanks to this sweet Love Letter box I found in the little town of Norfolk, …
Why am I asking? Because it’s important to give props to the educators* and mentors in your life. In my experience, the best gift you can give (and receive) is a thank you note (A+ if it’s handwritten). Even better if you take the time to specifically acknowledge the person AND how they impacted your …
What did you come here to do? In other words, what’s your life purpose?Not sure? Here are some ways to find out:* Help other people. – Studies have shown that being of service can help you feel a sense of purpose. * Seek feedback. – Ask people what they think of when you enter their …
Ain’t that the truth? I love seeing people’s creative expressions on this Block Island landmark. The messages and images change on the daily, sometimes even hourly. I’ve spotted folks happily making their mark in broad daylight and by flashlight.The thing is you don’t need spray paint or a boulder to speak your mind.Every day you are making …
Did you know that the word “alphabet” comes from the first two letters of the Greek language?And that way back in the day, speakers of Latin created the word “abecedarius” (aka the “ABCs”)?I didn’t and I’ve been a word nerd and language geek my whole life! :-)Which just proves you can always learn (and make!) …
Do you ever get all pumped up about a new goal and then a week later your energy has fizzled? Me too. And often it’s because we get in our own way. How? Here’s a recent example: For the first time since I’ve been in business, I set an actual revenue goal for this year. …
