Tag: goals

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!

The Story Behind Success Strategies (And What’s Coming Next …

I love to write! It’s a passion that began during my primary education years. I reflect on those early years. Back then, my uncle (an educator and school principal), would gift me with a book on birthdays and Christmas holidays. This was his custom instead of the usual and more preferential ‘toys’. Though disappointed then, I would dive into the books reading for hours.

As life progressed and blogging became a thing, I created my first blog A Moment With Shells in 2010. Later, on completion on my postgraduate education, I formalized this blog titled Successful Leaders to share my passion. It focused on empowering developing leaders through personal growth, leadership development, and success strategies.

That was a over a decade ago. Funny how time flies when you’re having fun!

Here’s an overview of my efforts to create articles, writings, or gleanings. The idea was to uplift, encourage subscribers and visitors under the headings listed.

Goal Setting & Achievement

The blog emphasizes the importance of setting clear, actionable goals. It encourages readers to commit to their objectives, keep them visible, and seek accountability to stay on track. Inspirational quotes from figures like Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins are used to motivate readers to design their own life plans and persist in their pursuits.

Discovering Purpose & Passion

Articles guide readers in uncovering their life purpose by reflecting on personal experiences, childhood interests, and unique talents. Techniques such as visualization, journaling, and seeking feedback from friends are recommended to help individuals find fulfillment and direction.

Stress Management & Work Life Balance

The website offers strategies for managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance. It highlights the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, seeking professional support, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being.

Embracing Change & Personal Growth

Recognizing when it’s time for change is a recurring theme. Writings discuss signs that indicate the need for a new direction and encourages readers to take proactive steps toward personal development. It also emphasizes the courage required to make significant life changes.

Writing, Publishing & Legacy Building

For aspiring authors, the site provides insights into the publishing process, including self-publishing and audiobook production. It also encourages writers to reflect on their life experiences and consider the legacy they wish to leave through their work.

Overall, Successful Leaders serves as a resource for individuals seeking inspiration and practical advice on personal development, leadership, career change and achieving success in various aspects of life.

Subscribe Now! Get on Board

Subscribe to keep updated on upcoming new and exciting developments. Have you been a follower? If so, how long and how have you benefited? Do share, we would love to hear!

Cheers!

What Are You Doing With The Rest of Your Life?

Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

Are you content with simply sitting on the sidelines and shaking your head, wringing your hands, because you know that this world could be a better one. ~Dr. Delores Smiley

What if you are no longer in the midst of corporate America because you have earned the opportunity to retire from the 9:00 to 5:00 daily work routine and you are still adjusting to time on hand?

What if you have discovered that you now have the time to pull out and work on those projects that you wanted to develop but just could never quite eek out that extra time to devote to them?

What if you are no longer needed to babysit the grandkids because along the way they have become adults and are busy with their own lives?

What if you have lost your companion and you are still making the adjustment of life without that special someone that completed your being for so many years?

What if you are not so settled that you have become complacent about the world that’s spinning around you?

What if you want to still make a contribution of service in whatever form but just don’t know how to go about doing that?

What if you could affect a positive change to make the tomorrows for society more pleasant, peaceful, and loveable?

Are you content with simply sitting on the sidelines and shaking your head, wringing your hands, because you know that this world could be a better one?

Are you concerned about the legacy that you are leaving to your family, to your community, to your world?

Are you afraid of the unknown or will you be a brave soul to believe and act on the fact that you have what it takes to make change?

I believe that you are out there and you would like nothing better than to discuss and develop a world that addresses hate, lack of leadership, the activation of moral and ethical behavior and saying to the world—we can be better.

This platform is a perfect way to get this started. I am willing to hear you, to grow with you and to look for that better tomorrow—together. I would love to hear your thoughts.

Written by Dr. Delores Smiley

Subscribe to her channel on substack

Life Or Lipstick?

You are just one decision from a totally different life. ~Wilfred A. Peterson

Life or lipstick? Silly question. I was driving when I looked in the mirror and saw ‘dry lips’. If you know me well, I don’t like to go anywhere without my lipstick or some color on my lips.

Immediately I began rummaging in my handbag. One hand on the steering wheel and the other attempting to do a deep dive (women’s handbag).

Suddenly I realized my foolery and said to myself life or lipstick? That immediately put things in perspective.

Haven’t we all made some decisions that when we look back at the short term benefits did not make any sense?

Sometimes you make the right decision. Sometimes you make the decision, right. ~ Phillip C. McGraw

Life Choices

  • Why would I choose lipstick over my life?
  • Why would you quit a job without having another source of income?
  • Why would you stay in a relationship that’s harmful? After all you’re not even married?
  • Why would you start a business without a plan? Without capital?
  • Why would your health not be considered during food consumption

We could go on and on. Let’s choose to be wise about the decisions we make and their effect on life.

The quality of your life is built on the quality of your decisions

Have an important decision to make? Think it over closely. Weigh the pros and cons. Talk it over with a confidante or leadership coach.

Cheers!

Thriving After Graduation: How To Launch Your Career In An Uncertain World

I have found that nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. Fall forward… never be discouraged. Never look back. Give everything you’ve got. And when you fall throughout life, fall forward.

Denzel Washington

Just graduated and feeling unsure about your next steps? You’re not alone. In a world of economic shifts, global challenges, and evolving job markets, launching your career can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.

In this video titled Thriving After Graduation: How to Launch Your Career in an Uncertain World, you’ll learn:

✅ How to clarify your purpose and career direction

✅ Practical strategies to stand out in a competitive job market

✅ Mindset shifts to build resilience and confidence

✅ Tips to navigate uncertainty and still move forward with clarity

Whether you’re still job hunting, considering grad school, or feeling stuck, this video will give you actionable steps to take control of your future.

💡 Don’t just survive — thrive after graduation.

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