In the workplace, it’s easy to think we have to choose between being nice or being direct. But the truth is, the people who communicate most effectively usually do both. We show that we value the person and the relationship when we lead with warmth. When we follow with assertiveness, we show that we value […]
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Reflections on meaning, purpose, and why we keep showing up Over the weekend I read Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles (thanks to Donna Buehler for the recommendation!), and I’ve been thinking about it ever since. The book explores the Japanese concept of ikigai (your
Where’s Your Ikigai Whispering? Read More »
Brené Brown, a leading researcher on vulnerability and shame, defines these concepts through grounded theory—building definitions based on real-life experiences. This sounds pretty straight forward, but what happens when we’re actually in the thick of it? My Story: Returning to Work After Maternity Leave In February of last year, I had my son, Harry, and
Vulnerability, Resilience, and the Stories We Tell Ourselves Read More »
Goals and I do not get along. For years, I would join millions of people on New Year’s Day to set aside time and define concrete, SMART, goals for myself. Lose ten pounds by March. Read twenty-five books this year. Have a weekly date night with my husband. And then, inevitably, life would happen and
If you struggle with goal setting, try this instead Read More »
Over the years, I’ve observed a trend in workplace dynamics: we’re becoming more aware of mental health, but sometimes this heightened awareness can blur the lines between normal emotional reactions and more serious concerns. This isn’t about downplaying anyone’s experience—emotions like sadness, frustration, and anxiety are real and valid. However, it’s also important to recognize
@Cudenverombuds Lisa Neale writes about dignity – how we can violate or stand up for other people’s dignity – and the benefits of standing up for others. #dignity
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It’s that season again, where confusion abounds, anxiety is high, and frustration is available to all! Nope, not talking about spring…it’s performance evaluation season (cue the applause and jubilation)! In a recent survey I conducted with a school on campus, here were some of the descriptors about performance evaluations: ‘waste of time,’ ‘doesn’t help me
My friend is a home contractor. Clients once called him and said, “We need you to fix our kitchen cabinets.” During the walk through, my friend identified that the cabinets aren’t the problem. The problem is underneath the floor. If they want to eliminate the issues going forward, they need to address that and the
Why it is Important to Embrace the Mess! Read More »
Are you empowered to voice and act on your values? Learn how the book Giving Voice to Values leverages your personal strengths in dealing with ethical challenges. #voicingvalues #ethicseducation #confidentconversation #staytruetovalues #BookReview
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Why do we gather together to remember a loved one when they’ve died? Why do we say vows at a wedding? Why do we give toasts at Thanksgiving? These are all examples of rituals we regularly participate in, often without thinking. They are part of our culture and are a physical representation of the psychological
Want to Improve Your Work Culture? Adopt a Ritual! Read More »