Tag: goals

Get Up And Move

All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking. ~ Friedrich Nietzsche

Get up and move. That’s me. Finally selected a ‘walking’ friend in another state. I’d have her as an accountability partner for my need-to-move decision. To exercise. To stay healthy. To think. To write. My goal was simple. Walk at minimum twice weekly as a start (secretly hoping for more). But two times per week was manageable. After-all, the week has 7 days. I drive out of town a lot so twice should be achievable.

And We’re Off!

Walked 30 minutes! Yea! I did it. Before our midweek check-in, my friend sent me a video on the 2nd day. I screamed by text. “Don’t rush me or don’t bother with the accountability.”

Then I looked at the video. It was doing sit ups. Rolled my eyes since of late I have been experiencing a bit of back pain. There’s no way I can go that low much less to do the sit up.

Then I did it. Oh so satisfying! Yippee!

Next Steps

I snuck away. The weather wasn’t great. Cold. Windy. But I walked. Went a slightly longer route to get to the regular route. Why? Because there was a lady slowly running ahead of me. Not wanting to bump into her space (or more-so she into mine), I walked around. She ran ahead, then disappeared. Nowhere in sight.

I walked along. It worked to my benefit because I added another 10 minutes to my stretch. Horrible back pains but I did it slowly, but surely. Stopping to stretch along the way.

Got home. Did what I love. Wrote about my steps in this medium. Hmm, what if this is an inspiration to write, to put it in a journal of sorts?

Climbed the stairs. Then looked at the wide-open space between rooms and laid on the floor. Guess what I did? 30 sit-ups in blocks of 5 and 10. I’m so very proud of me!!!

I think I can do this! Again. I’ll keep going. One would never believe I was a track and field athlete (smirk).

So that’s how you do all things uncomfortable. No matter what it is. Career, education, financial, relationship, homeownership. Whatever your goal, you accomplish it one step at a time. One day at a time. Bigger goals become accomplished.

Cheers!

5 Self-Published Authors Who Made it Big & How You Can Too

1. E.L. James – Fifty Shades of Grey

  • Starting Point: Self‑published as an e‑book and print‑on‑demand.
  • Breakthrough: Went viral through online word-of-mouth and book clubs.
  • Result: Sold over 150 million copies; major movie trilogy.
  • Lesson: Leverage niche communities (like book clubs, online forums) to spark buzz.

2. Hugh Howey – Wool

  • Starting Point: Released short dystopian story independently on Amazon.
  • Breakthrough: Readers demanded more; he expanded it into a series.
  • Result: Bestseller, foreign rights sales, and Apple TV+ adaptation Silo.
  • Lesson: Listen to your audience and let their feedback shape your next steps.

3. Colleen Hoover – Slammed

  • Starting Point: Self‑published in 2012 while working a full‑time job.
  • Breakthrough: Book bloggers and social media amplified her work.
  • Result: Multiple #1 NYT bestsellers; Netflix adaptation of It Ends With Us.
  • Lesson: Build genuine relationships with influencers and reviewers.

4. Andy Weir – The Martian

  • Starting Point: Posted story for free on his blog, then on Kindle for $0.99.
  • Breakthrough: Readers recommended it heavily; caught publisher’s and Hollywood’s attention.
  • Result: NYT bestseller and Oscar-nominated film starring Matt Damon.
  • Lesson: Offer value first—sometimes giving content away builds your biggest fanbase.

5. Amanda Hocking – Trylle Trilogy

  • Starting Point: Self‑published paranormal romance e‑books.
  • Breakthrough: Priced affordably and marketed directly to YA readers online.
  • Result: Over 1 million copies sold; multi‑million‑dollar deal with St. Martin’s Press.
  • Lesson: Use smart pricing and targeted marketing to quickly grow sales.

Takeaway for Aspiring Authors

Self‑publishing is no longer “Plan B.” It’s a proven path to bestseller lists, film deals, and global readership—if you combine quality writing with smart marketing.

Your next step:

  • Identify your audience
  • Engage them before your book launches
  • Use online platforms to amplify your reach

Before the New Year Begins: A Leadership Reflection

At a gathering, family and friends were asked to reflect. Sonia asked each to share one thing they were thankful for. Marriage, graduation, opportunities, sports achievement, divine protection, new car, life and the aged still living were among the thoughts shared.

But one thing stood out. As Stephan ended giving thanks collectively in prayer, shouts rang out at her thoughts that hit home. Many rushed with hugs and adoration, but one stood out. George turned to her mom and pointed at her. Without saying a word, his action said it all. Mom had passed the baton to Stephan and stood watching as the group embraced. Indeed mom felt pride that her labor was not in vain.

Before the New Year Begins

As the year comes to a close, leaders are already thinking about goals, plans, and next moves. But before we rush into the next chapter planning our dreams and aspirations, there’s value in pausing to reflect.

Personal growth doesn’t always show up as promotions, metrics, or public wins. Often, the most meaningful growth happens quietly.

This year, growth may have looked like:

  • Choosing courage when fear was familiar.
  • It may have meant staying committed when quitting felt easier.
  • Or letting go of roles, relationships, or expectations that no longer aligned with who you’re becoming.

Understand that Leadership begins within. Before we lead teams, organizations, families or communities forward, we must first acknowledge our own evolution.

As you prepare for the new year, consider these questions:

  • Who have I grown into this year?
  • What did this season teach me about myself?
  • What alignment (not perfection) do I want to carry forward?

Clarity comes after commitment

You don’t need every answer before January 1st. Clarity often comes after commitment.

As the calendar turns, may the next year be marked by your:

  • Intentional leadership
  • Purposeful growth
  • The courage to move forward aligned with who you truly are.

Reflection:

What is one lesson this year taught you about your leadership or personal growth? Think about it. Acknowledge it and Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

23 Ways To Fight Writers Block

I am struggling to get inspiration to continue writing a story I started. What do I do? ~New writer

Writers often face that daunting moment when the initial excitement fades and the blank page becomes a fighting nightmare. You may be many chapters in, or just past the opening scene, losing momentum is one of the most common challenges in the creative process. But the good news is that writer’s block and motivational slumps are not permanent. They are signals that you need to shift your approach. Reconnect with your story’s core or simply give yourself permission to write imperfectly.

Here are 23 strategies offered by seasoned authors. These are designed to help you rediscover your pulse and move ahead with renewed energy. Yep, sometimes inspiration can feel frustrating and out of reach. That’s when you dig deep. Adopt a strategy or two to use whenever the writing drought hits.

How To Get Back in the Writing Game

  1. Read books
  2. Keep writing
  3. Go for an isolated nature walk
  4. Relax. The story will write itself if you stop worrying about it
  5. Keep a journal for each project. Write why you can’t think of anything to write
  6. Free write your story until you get a flow going
  7. Follow the advice of keep writing. But be prepared to write stuff you don’t feel okay with. This is how you break the barrier
  8. Write for the sake of writing.
  9. Draw inspiration: music and movies. Inspiration is fuel. Don’t wait for it to fall in your lap
  10. Move. Exercise. It Stimulates your brain
  11. Try dancing
  12. Write one true sentence about your story and repeat it until you get some momentum
  13. Outline the next couple of chapters. Start high level then fill in details. Keep iterating. Often you find there is something in your story that is giving you doubt and this helps to resolve that too
  14. Go hiking with friends and bounce ideas off them
  15. Walk away. Write another book. Sometimes you need space to think
  16. Go on “Artiste Date” (solo excursion somewhere you like). This will help your creative. You need to stock the pond to catch anything worthwhile
  17. Add a new character
  18. Write another element: poetry, prose, scripts
  19. Keep writing. Some days it’s inspiring and exciting. Other days its drudgery. But you sit down and keep writing
  20. Do art. Draw, music, painting, dance, even cooking. Get that creative right brain firing on all cylinders
  21. Make a list of ‘why you like your story and why you’re writing it
  22. Write the ending and then go back and write your way to it
  23. Think “what if”. What if your character got abducted? What if another love comes along? What if the treasure you sought in the jungle housed vampires? Don’t dismiss ideas. Just write them down and then brainstorm it further.

Are you a writer? Is a tip or two missing? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Finish 2025 Strong: Leadership Lessons from Thanksgiving

Recalibrate… Finish Strong

Thanksgiving may have passed, but the spirit of gratitude is one of the most powerful leadership tools we carry into the rest of the year.

This is the season where leaders shift from reflection to readiness. While many people slow down mentally, high-impact leaders use this window to recalibrate. It’s not about rushing to finish tasks. It’s about finishing the year with clarity and intention.

Gratitude sharpens our focus.
It grounds our decisions.
And it reminds us that leadership is not measured only by what we achieve, but by who we become along the way.

As we move toward the close of 2025, here’s a question I encourage leaders to sit with:

What is ONE decision you can make right now that will set you up for meaningful growth in 2026?

This may be a decision to:
• Delegate more intentionally
• Step into a new direction
• Release what no longer aligns
• Seek clarity before making your next move
• Invest in development (your own or someone else’s)

The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year are the most underestimated leadership window, and yet one of the most powerful. Small shifts made now create profound momentum in the new year.

If you are a leader navigating transition, stepping into a new role, launching something new, or simply needing clarity for 2026, support is available.

And if you know someone in your organization, circle, or family who needs that guidance… this season is the perfect time to gift it.

Let’s finish strong, lead with intention, and walk boldly into the year ahead.

Elevate Your Leadership: Key Questions to Shape 2026

Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside, awakens. ~Carl Jung

As the year closes, the most effective leaders are the ones who pause long enough to evaluate, realign, and elevate. These 12 questions are designed to help you step confidently into 2026 with clarity, courage, and intention.

Take a moment to reflect on each. Use them to guide your vision, your team, and your next level of growth. Strong leadership doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through awareness, alignment, and action.

Reflection Questions

1. What are my top 3 leadership wins from 2025?


2. What drained my energy this year, and why?


3. What habits strengthened my leadership?


4. What habits weakened it?


5. What opportunities did I ignore that I should revisit?


6. What does success look like for me in 2026?


7. What limiting belief must I leave behind?


8. Who do I need to become next year?


9. What relationships do I need to nurture?


10. What boundaries do I need to create?


11. What skills must I develop or sharpen?


12. What is ONE bold move I will take before Jan. 31?

If you’d like support creating a strategic leadership plan for the new year, join the year-end and January coaching sessions. This is designed for leaders in transition and professionals preparing for a stronger 2026.

What will you do differently next year? Which question resonated with you the most? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Setting Goals: Key to Overcoming Crises

Together we Grow

Ann, a historian and extreme planner, had an adventurous time touring Greece with her husband. During the trip, she shared photos of places she had learned in her undergraduate program. As they began their return trip, civil unrest occurred blocking all flights to leave Turkey, cruise and all. Quick decision, they decided to get out of the country whichever way they could. Both landed in Paris, only to be separated to get back home to the USA. Separation was a non-issue. Their goal was to return safely to their two kids waiting back home.

Times of Crises

There are times of crises as in Ann’s case. But most often we do have opportunities to plan ahead. Financiers will preach that we should plan for times of crises too.

Why is it important to set goals? Because if you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there. Where you will end up, who knows? That’s when you will just have to go with the flow.

Goalsetting is the process of identifying desired outcomes and creating a plan of action to achieve them, providing a sense of direction, motivation and focus

So why do we need to set goals? Because setting goals is the process of identifying desired outcomes and creating a plan of action to achieve them, providing a sense of direction, motivation and focus.

That’s the reason it a pleasure to facilitate the writing process with authors. The event was held at the Broward County’s West Regional Library in Plantation, Florida. This session focused on Writers Goal Setting for 2026 books through the Writers Group of South Florida.

If you are an aspiring author, or are ready to take your leadership to the next level and need a copy of the Goal-Setting guide, connect to get yours today. Leadership Assessment also available.

Not an author but ready to take your leadership to the next level through setting your 2026 goals, let’s chat. Referrals are warmly welcomed.

Cheers!

How Can A Business Owner Overcome Fear of Marketing? 4 Steps-To-Success

Overcome Marketing Fear

At a networking event, a bold Networker spoke about her reluctance to use social media. She was hesitant about using it. She asked herself “why not enroll into a social media class?

How can a business owner overcome this fear? This is a powerful and timely question especially as we get close to the peak of the biggest holiday season. Most business owners are confident in their work but hesitant about visibility.

4 Ways to Overcome the Fear of Marketing as a Business Owner

Many business owners love what they do but freeze when it’s time to promote their work. They fear sounding “salesy,” being judged, or stepping into the spotlight. Yet, marketing isn’t about ego, it’s about service and connection. Here are some tips to negate that fear.

  1. Reframe “marketing” as “helping.”

Marketing is simply communicating the value of what you offer to people who need it. When you shift from “selling” to “serving,” fear loses its grip.
Ask yourself: Who needs this solution? How can I make it easier for them to find me?

  1. Start with authenticity, not perfection.

You don’t need perfect videos, fancy funnels, or flawless captions. You just need a clear message and consistency. Share your why, your story, and the transformation you help others achieve. Authenticity builds trust faster than polished perfection.

  1. Use your strengths.

If writing comes naturally, blog or post.
If you’re a people person, go live or network.
If you’re visual, create short reels or carousel posts.
Play to your natural communication style instead of forcing what feels unnatural.

  1. Build confidence through small wins.

Set simple, repeatable goals, one post a week, one short video, one client testimonial shared. Every time you take action, your comfort zone expands.

  1. Get coached through the fear.

A leadership or business coach can help you uncover the root cause of your fear. Whether it’s fear of rejection, comparison, or visibility and replace it with confidence and clarity.

Coaching helps you align your mindset, message, and methods so you can show up as a confident leader of your brand.


Coaching helps you align your mindset, message, and methods so you can show up as a confident leader of your brand.

Remember:
As with the business owner we spoke about, she learnedd that she did not have to love marketing, she just needed to see it as part of her leadership. She did and was happy to shout the benefits.

Remember, your voice, your story, and your offer could be the answer someone is praying for. Don’t let fear keep you silent.

Have you been hesitant to step out and share your work? Do share. We would love to hear.

Need help to make the move? Attend GreenLight Leadership Coaching Workshop

Cheers!

How to Answer ‘Why Did You Leave Your Previous Employer’?

“Change is not a threat, it’s an opportunity. Survival is not the goal,  transformative success is.” — Seth Godin 

I was asked the question how do I respond when asked “why did I leave my previous employer.” I decided to share the response through this scenario.

John’s longtime supervisor transferred to another region, leaving him under new management. Unfortunately, the transition wasn’t smooth—his new supervisor was inexperienced, and their working styles didn’t align. Before long, John was placed on a performance plan with reasons that weren’t clearly defined.

As the situation unfolded, John was given the option to either continue under the plan or move on. After thoughtful consideration and advice from trusted mentors, he chose to resign.

While the experience was challenging, John views it as a turning point. It clarified the kind of environment in which he does his best work—one with clear expectations, collaborative leadership, and mutual respect.

Why did you leave your previous employer?

In interviews, the inevitable “Why did you leave?” question can be answered truthfully yet professionally. In John’s case, he felt overwhelmed and contacted his coach to identify how to appropriately respond. The focus should be on what he learned and how he’s now positioned to contribute more effectively in a role that aligns with his strengths.

Stay Truthful Without Oversharing

How someone frames their exit can make a huge difference in how a future employer perceives them. If an employee was asked to resign, the goal is to stay truthful without oversharing, keep it professional, and pivot the conversation back to strengths and fit.

Here are some ways they can respond depending on the situation:

1. Frame It as a Mutual Decision

  • “The role turned out not to be the best fit for my strengths and career goals. After discussions with leadership, we mutually agreed it would be best for me to move on.”
    This works well if they don’t want to sound negative or defensive.

2. Emphasize Reorganization / Role Misalignment

  • “The company was restructuring, and my role was impacted. While I gained valuable experience, it was the right time to look for opportunities better aligned with my skills.”
    Neutralizes blame and shows adaptability.

3. Focus on Growth & Future

  • “I realized that the position wasn’t the right long-term fit. I decided to transition out so I could pursue opportunities where I can contribute at a higher level.”
    Reframes the resignation as intentional rather than forced.

4. Highlight Lessons Learned

  • “That experience taught me a lot about [communication, leadership, project management, etc.]. I’m now looking forward to applying those lessons in a new environment where I can thrive.”
    Shows maturity, resilience, and a forward-looking attitude.

5. Keep It Brief & Positive

If pressed further:

  • “I’d prefer to focus on the value I can bring to this role. I’m confident the skills I developed will be an asset here.”
    Avoids being dragged into negativity or long explanations.

Avoid:

  • Speaking negatively about the past employer.
  • Using words like “fired,” “forced,” or “terminated” unless directly asked (then explain calmly and factually).
  • Sounding evasive—short, honest, positive answers work best.

If you are in this situation, we hope this helps as a brief guide on how to handle the situation as you transition into new role.

On the other hand, have you ever experienced a case like this? How did you handle this rather sensitive career journey? Do share, we would love to hear.

That Wretched Performance Improvement Plan As Leadership Changes

THAT WRETCHED PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT PLAN

It’s a devil. I tell you it’s the devil! You work hard. Achieve great results and are applauded for your contribution.

Then a change in leadership! Things go haywire. Goals are thwarted. Messages are confusing. Leaders don’t explain. Midst the changes, the transition in process becomes the focus backed by mixed signals.

Then comes the inevitable performance drop. A lack of clarity, missed communication. Performance improvement plan rears its ugly head. A strong performer, an all star becomes the targeted.

Where did things go wrong?

Ever experienced it? Let’s talk.

5 Leadership Lessons from Great Teachers

Dead Poets Society

Clarity builds trust and momentum

Summer is almost over and it’s time to make all those back-to-school plans. As we make those plans, lets pause for a minute. Think of a teacher or two who made a difference in your life. Personally, as I age, I think about those teaching experiences and the effect they had on my leadership journey. As I look back, I think of society’s great teachers like Erin Gruwell, Maria Montessori, and the fictional Mr. Keating (Dead Poets Society).

Here are 5 lessons leaders can learn from great teachers.

1.Clarity is Powerful

Teachers break down complex topics into simple, digestible pieces.
Leaders must do the same—clearly communicate vision, expectations, and feedback so everyone understands what success looks like.

Lesson: Say less, mean more. Clarity builds trust and momentum.

2. Patience Enables Progress

Teachers know learning takes time and that growth isn’t always linear.
Leaders should extend grace and patience during times of transition, failure, or new learning curves—whether with teams or themselves.

Lesson: Progress often looks like repetition before results.

3. Individual Strengths Matter

Great teachers recognize that not every student learns the same way.
Great leaders acknowledge that not every employee works, leads, or grows the same. They tailor support, roles, and recognition accordingly.

Lesson: Personalize your leadership to bring out the best in each person.

4. Structure Creates Freedom

Teachers use routines and structure to create a safe space for creativity and exploration.
Leaders who implement clear systems give their teams the confidence and autonomy to take initiative.

Lesson: Strong frameworks unlock innovative thinking.

5. Passion Inspires Performance

Teachers who genuinely care spark curiosity and motivation.
Leaders who lead with purpose, authenticity, and heart cultivate higher engagement and loyalty.

Lesson: When you model passion, people give their best

As school begins its opening session, the road becomes a task / lesson plan in and of itself. What are your thoughts on the top five lessons? Anything missing that you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.

Don’t forget to connect if you would like to discuss your own leadership growth journey.

Jamaica’s Port Royal, A Summer Must Visit

A Port Royal Tale

When most people think of Jamaica, they think of white sandy beaches and tons of fun in the sun. Yes indeed! It’s all that! And if you’ve never been, you should!

But the island is more than that. It’s filled with rich history. A land full of learning. Oh yes, Learning comes in different forms. To understand the future you have to look back.

To understand the future, you have to look back.

After Calabash Literary Festival, I visited Port Royal, the historical site tagging along with my girls. A visit I thought ‘boring’ but agreed to go. My older daughter wanted her boys to learn about the land of her birth.

Boy was I in for a surprise! The rich history that existed in that place was unfathomable. Now that I’m older, I was able to connect the dots. Here’s a brief overview.

Canons and Pirates

Initially inhabited by Pirates, canons were evident everywhere. Captain’s quarters provided full length windows showing 360-degree visuals of views from the Caribbean Sea. This was a way to prepare for potential battle while enhancing supervision from all corners.

Giddy House

Giddy House was named for the feeling visitors get when they try to stand straight inside. It was an artillery house that stored defense items. Giddy house was struck by an earthquake in 1907 and partially sank.

Trees And Secret Spots

Hundred-year-old trees provided way more than shelter. Their magnificence can’t be missed.

Secret spots were noticeable everywhere. All conducive to the life of a pirate to protect, attack, and surprise.

Earthquake’s Effects

Sadly, Port Royal suffered the major earthquake. A natural disaster that sunk the area leaving remnants of what once was.

The sea’s backdrop midst the sun’s heat, was nothing compared to the learning gleaned. Our family walked away with rich learning of stories told and untold.

Fish Sealed Experience

A sumptuous meal of fish and festival at nearby restaurant sealed the simple yet remarkable experience.

Plan a visit. I hear the area is now a point of renovated focus for the beautiful island of Jamaica.

Cheers!

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