Posts

Go, Go, Go!

Everybody Needs It

It was a few days before my birthday in early December 2009, and a card from my parents had just arrived in the mail. Mom’s Alzheimer’s symptoms were still subtle at that time. Previously she would have written “Dear Ginny” and “Love Mom and Dad.” In this card, however, there were only three words: Shine, Ginny, Shine. I was immediately struck by the coincidence in that I had just selected my theme for the upcoming year: Shine. Though I hadn’t shared that with her, somehow my mother had known what to affirm. It wasn’t the first time. Read more

How Good Are You At Asking For Help?

72 Thank-You Notes

blue envelope with thank you note insideAfter months of networking and doing all the right things that a professional does when laid off from a 30-year career, Genevieve hit a low point. During two painfully quiet weeks waiting for the phone to ring, all she felt was discouraged. Then it happened. In a matter of a few days, six invitations for interviews streamed in along with a solid job offer. Marveling at how things could change so quickly, Genevieve was grateful to see the seeds she had planted finally sprouting. Read more

It’s Okay, Keep Going

Multi-Tasking in the Kitchen

I’m thirteen years old and sitting at the kitchen table with my friend, Luisa. Opened textbooks and library books surround us. It’s dark outside and dinner time is fast approaching on a winter weekday afternoon. The smell of baked potatoes in the oven permeates, as my mother begins to prepare tonight’s meal. She hears our intermittent groans and senses our trepidation at the size of the project. Read more

How Can I Help You?

Lunch Conversations

Last week I had lunch with someone I met recently at a business event. We had made plans to meet socially and also learn more about each other’s business. As we conversed over our salads, my new acquaintance generously gave me some ideas for local connections to make here in Phoenix, knowing that I’m new to the valley. Wanting to reciprocate, I asked, “How can I help you?” She paused and thanked me for asking the question. After thinking for a moment, she mentioned a project she was working on and I was able to provide a resource for her right away. “What a great question,” she commented. Then I suggested that whenever we meet, we remember to ask each other that question, as our answers might be different at any given point in time. Read more

Traveling The Distance From What You Know To How You Live

Shouldn’t You Be Able To Figure It Out Yourself?

I can hear that they are serious about making a change and interested in the coaching process.  Then comes the moment of hesitation with a silent question attached to it: Shouldn’t I be able to figure out all this stuff myself? Read more

Protect Your Dream

(#6 in the series: Are You A Dreamer?)

Dreams Need Protecting

I was predisposed to like the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” for two reasons.  First, I had seen the real-life Christopher Gardner (the movie’s protagonist) relay his incredible story during a TV interview for “20/20”.  Second, I like Will Smith.  If I was wearing my movie critic hat, I could make a few suggestions as to some additional aspects I wished were included in the movie, but I won’t do that because regardless, the story is a wonderfully inspiring one.  The movie’s message is uplifting and real. Read more

Support You Need for the Changes You Want

A fresh year invites you to conjure change and set your sights a little higher.  Installing effective supports greatly reduces the amount of struggle that often accompanies change. Here are six things to include in your support system: Read more