Life is short but, somehow, careers are long. I’m coming up on one of those big birthdays—the kind with the zero in it—and I’ve been reflecting on second, third, or even fourth acts. I had a great run in television, heading communications for Sony, Universal and Turner Broadcasting in my first career. It was a … Read more
Now that spring has sprung, taxes are behind us (most of us, anyway!), and Q2 is underway, it’s time to look ahead. Get the quarter off to a great start by asking yourself three very simple questions that can put you—and keep you—on track to personal and professional success, however you define it. Here you … Read more
We just celebrated our second New Year in our home in Southern Oregon and I’m delighted to report it’s been a great year. In large part, thanks to all of my wonderful clients and partners. This is the week I always take a look back at my plan for the past year to see what … Read more
I’d be willing to bet that it’s no coincidence that the first month of Q4 is also National Women’s Small Business Month. Both give me a sense of energy and drive, like that last caffeinated spurt as you sprint to the finish line of a huge project. In celebration of women business owners everywhere (yay … Read more
Yeah, I know. We’ve all said, “Hope is not a strategy” or “Hope is not a plan.” Yet, in the time of COVID-19, hope may be the best strategy we have. Let me explain. The notion that hope is the bedrock upon which all of work and life rest—the essential ingredient that gets us out … Read more
Every organization is unique so every organization’s back-to-work message needs to be uniquely tailored to fit the type of business, workplace culture, and COVID-19 considerations. I never thought going to the dentist could be exciting. But after 62 days barely leaving the house, getting my teeth cleaned was, well, a pleasure. The office manager set … Read more
You’ve probably noticed how institutions from Saturday Night Live to State Farm to El Pollo Loco have flipped the switch on their brands, some seemingly overnight. SNL broke new ground with their first online show featuring Tom Hanks’ monologue in his kitchen (hallway? kitchen hallway? what was that?). State Farm and other insurance carriers gave … Read more
Language, whether positive or negative, internal or external, loud or low-key, is extremely powerful. The first step toward managing communication with the Limiters in your life – those people who seem to have been put on the planet just to burst your bubble and shut down your dreams – is to recognize how that language … Read more
When you understand how to reframe risk-taking, you’ll stop avoiding risks and start advancing toward your dreams! Think about some risks you’ve avoided in the past. What were the sticking points that started you down the path of avoidance? What kinds of excuses or rationalizations did you use to back away from change? Read through … Read more
When I first saw the video from a leadership breakout session I conducted for members of ASAE (American Society of Association Executives), I was horrified to see my blouse untucked and my hair a-frizz. The DC humidity and an uncooperative microphone had done a number on me. But then I thought, who cares? This group … Read more