The daily seduction is real. The constant flow of information + endless options (for pretty much everything) + our innate drive to care about what others think lures us away from what is truly important to us.
If you reflect on the year, and you experienced more overwhelm, distraction, stress, busyness, or worry about what others think (an extremely common interference in peace of mind and a life aligned with our true values), I recommend an antidote: simplicity.
When we filter through all of the above distractions and create a simpler life, we live with more ease, and who doesn't want that??
If you are now thinking, sure, this sounds great, but how will I ever simplify? I have SO MUCH TO DO.
A friend just shared a new CNN editorial series called, One Small Thing, the idea being that you give yourself one small gift daily.
I'm tweaking it and adding, what is one simple thing you can do daily that YOU want or need ( hint: this is not a should ), and what is one simple thing you can do daily for someone else. After all, true fulfillment is achieved through giving. I'm putting in my daily calendar so I can make it a habit. This isn't rocket science - it's really just back to the basics.
In a team training last month, I did a very simple exercise called appreciation. Each person turned to their right and told the other person one thing they appreciate about them. Uncomfortable? No doubt. Also, it’s a quick way to begin a group meeting or a 1:1, and it creates high energy - do this at work and you've already accomplished the one thing daily for someone else. It doesn't have to be cringey - it can even be an extra appreciative thank you in an impromtu conversation.
One of the most common topics I help people with is speaking up or having difficult conversations; This can feel hard, because most of us have been conditioned to believe negative thoughts about being clear or direct, especially that it's mean or confrontational.
Whether I'm working with the leader of a company, a salesperson, team leader, or a small business owner, effective communication is needed for things to run smoothly - we all know this - we just get caught in busyness and often don’t slow down to really pay attention to how we communicate. I'm here to demystify things - it does not have to be hard.
Keep it simple. What do you want to say? Why? What is your objective? Rehearse it, write it, share with a peer, mentor, coach, therapist. Be clear, empathic, and kind. Let go of the fear of what others might think enough so that you speak up.
I will be running more workshops in 2025 on navigating challenging conversations within teams, with colleagues, bosses, and also at home. They will be transformational, not informational, meaning we will practice with specific scenarios.
Reach out with interest for yourself or your team.