Tag: goals

10 Ways To Help You Achieve Your Goals

Goals are the links in the chain that connect activity to accomplishment. —Zig Ziglar

Another year filled with regret at not achieving the goals Sabrina had set. Throughout her career she had helped others achieve their goals, yet it was at the expense of achieving her own personal goals. Something has to give.

If you are like Sabrina, here are some practical steps to help you achieve your goals:

1.Break Down Large Goals

    • Divide big goals into smaller, manageable sub-goals
    • Create a step-by-step action plan
    • Make each milestone specific and measurable
    • Set realistic timelines for each sub-goal

    2.Develop a Concrete Action Plan

    • Write down your goals in detail
    • Specify exactly what you want to achieve
    • Include specific deadlines
    • Identify potential obstacles in advance
    • Create strategies to overcome these obstacles

    3.Prioritize and Track Progress

    Use tools like:

    • Goal tracking apps
    • Physical planners
    • Digital spreadsheets
    • Regularly review and assess your progress
    • Adjust your plan if needed
    • Celebrate small victories along the way

    4. Build Accountability

    • Share your goals with trusted friends/family
    • Find an accountability partner
    • Join support groups related to your goals
    • Consider working with a coach or mentor

    5. Develop Consistent Habits

    • Create daily/weekly routines supporting your goals
    • Practice discipline and consistency
    • Use habit-tracking techniques
    • Start small and gradually build momentum

    Goals: Killing me Softly

    6. Enhance Motivation

    • Visualize success
    • Create a motivational vision board
    • Use positive affirmations
    • Reward yourself for reaching milestones
    • Maintain a growth mindset

    7. Continuous Learning

    • Acquire necessary skills
    • Read relevant books/materials
    • Take courses
    • Seek mentorship
    • Stay updated in your goal’s domain

    8. Manage Time Effectively

    • Use time management techniques
    • Prioritize tasks
    • Eliminate distractions
    • Practice focused work sessions
    • Use productivity tools

    9. Practice Self-Care

    • Maintain physical and mental health
    • Get adequate rest
    • Exercise regularly
    • Practice stress management
    • Maintain a balanced lifestyle

    10. Stay Flexible and Resilient

    • Accept that setbacks will happen
    • Learn from failures
    • Be adaptable
    • Maintain a positive attitude
    • Continuously reassess and adjust your approach

    Follow these steps to achieve your goals as you step into a new phase of your career. Need help? Let’s connect

    Cheers!

    Making Big Decisions: Head Or Heart?

    Decisions. Decisions

    A new year paves the way for ‘change’. As we approach 2025 many of us will make decisions that will impact our lives. Decisions in our entrepreneurship roles, decisions in our relationships, career (stay or go), and in our personal and professional lives.

    The question was asked on social media about decision-making. When making decisions do you make them using your ‘head’ or ‘heart’. Respondents quickly chimed in with 29% preferred ‘head’, while 71% preferred ‘heart’. Decided to break down head decisions vs. heart decisions and analyze their roles and characteristics in decision-making.

    Head Decisions (Rational / Logical)

    1. Characteristics:
    • Based on facts and data
    • Relies on analysis and reasoning
    • Focuses on practical outcomes
    • Uses systematic evaluation
    • Considers long-term consequences
    • Weighs pros and cons objectively
    • Driven by logic and evidence
    1. Best Used For:
    • Financial decisions
    • Business strategies
    • Career choices
    • Investment planning
    • Risk assessment
    • Legal matters
    • Technical problems

    Heart Decisions (Emotional / Intuitive)

    1. Characteristics:
    • Based on feelings and intuition
    • Relies on personal values
    • Focuses on emotional satisfaction
    • Uses gut instincts
    • Considers personal fulfillment
    • Weighs emotional impact
    • Driven by passion and purpose
    1. Best Used For:
    • Personal relationships
    • Creative pursuits
    • Life purpose decisions
    • Value-based choices
    • Personal fulfillment
    • Passion projects
    • Meaningful connections

    Which is Better?

    Neither is “better” – both have their place

    1. Integrated Approach:
    • Best decisions often combine both
    • Head ensures practicality
    • Heart ensures alignment with values
    • Balance creates sustainable choices
    1. Context Matters:
    • Some situations need more logic
    • Others need more emotional intelligence
    • Most benefit from both perspectives
    1. Decision Framework: Best Practice: Use Both
    • Heart: Initial guidance
    • Head: Validation and planning
    • Heart: Final gut check
    1. When to Lean More on Head:
    • High-risk situations
    • Financial commitments
    • Legal matters
    • Complex problems
    • Strategic planning
    1. When to Lean More on Heart:
    • Life purpose decisions
    • Personal relationships
    • Career passion
    • Creative endeavors
    • Value-based choices
    1. Integration Tips:
    • Start with heart to identify what matters
    • Use head to evaluate feasibility
    • Check back with heart for alignment
    • Plan execution with head
    • Monitor satisfaction with heart
    1. Warning Signs: Head-Only Decisions:
    • Feels empty or unfulfilling
    • Lacks personal meaning
    • May lead to regret
    • Could miss opportunities

    Heart-Only Decisions:

    • May be impractical
    • Could be financially risky
    • Might lack sustainability
    • Could be too impulsive

    Real-World Example: Career Change Decision:

    • Heart: Identifies passion and desired impact
    • Head: Evaluates market demand, salary, skills needed
    • Heart: Confirms emotional alignment
    • Head: Creates transition plan
    • Both: Monitor progress and satisfaction

    Recommendation

    1. Use a Balanced Approach:
    • Start with heart to understand what you truly want
    • Use head to evaluate feasibility and plan
    • Check back with heart for alignment
    • Execute with head’s planning
    • Monitor with both heart and head
    1. Decision-Making Process:
    • Identify the type of decision
    • Consider the stakes involved
    • Use appropriate balance of both
    • Create evaluation criteria
    • Make and implement decision
    • Review and adjust as needed
    1. Questions to Ask: Head Questions:
    • What are the facts?
    • What are the risks?
    • What are the long-term consequences?
    • What resources are required?

    Heart Questions:

    • How does this feel?
    • Does this align with my values?
    • Will this bring fulfillment?
    • What does my intuition say?

    Points to Note

    • The best decisions often come from balanced input from both head and heart
    • Different situations require different balances
    • Practice integrating both perspectives
    • Trust both your logic and your intuition
    • Monitor outcomes using both metrics

    So there you have it. A thorough overview of when and how to make decisions with your head and heart. What type of decision-maker are you? Head or Heart? Do share, we would love to hear.

    Writers of Color Women’s Empowerment Initiative

    “Ask yourself, what would I do if I weren’t afraid? And then go do it” — Sheryl Sandberg

    Inspiring. Intentional. Take charge. Grow. These were common words that described the Writers Group of South Florida’s Women Empowerment Event held at the West Regional Library in Plantation, Florida.

    Guests turned out in numbers to be educated or refreshed as seasoned authors shared nuggets on leadership, balance, wellbeing, and becoming financially independent.

    Thanks to fellow writer GMoss Designs for being Instrumental and singer songwriter Ettosi Brooks for the delightful music entertainment.

    Panelists Award winning Reggae legend Miss Pat Chin and others did an exceptional job in highlighting the challenges women face as well as the Strategies to overcome.

    Missed it? Plan for it Next year same time.

    Cheers!

    14 Strategies For Adults Reporting To Millennial Team Leads

    The challenge of leadership is to be strong, but not rude; be kind, but not weak; be bold, but not a bully; be thoughtful, but not lazy; be humble, but not timid; be proud, but not arrogant; have humor, but without folly. ~Jim Rohn

    “I report to Jen who is in her late 30s and is as old as my daughter” Cindy said aloud to the group. She respects me though. The diverse group of women nodded in agreement. There are others who are not as lucky as Cindy, not necessarily because of being older but because they complain of having more experience than the Millennial who supervise them. They often take offense at any task given because they do not believe they should report to someone younger than themselves.

    This is an increasingly common situation as workplace demographics change. Here are some strategies older adults can use when reporting to or being supervised by millennials:

    1. Focus on mutual respect:
      • Recognize that your millennial supervisor has earned their position.
      • Treat them with the same respect you’d expect, regardless of age.
    2. Leverage your experience tactfully:
      • Offer your insights and experience as a resource, not a challenge to authority.
      • Frame suggestions as “In my experience…” rather than “You should…”
    3. Embrace learning opportunities:
      • Be open to new ideas and approaches your younger supervisor might introduce.
      • Show enthusiasm for learning new skills or technologies.
    4. Adapt to communication styles:
      • Be flexible with communication methods (e.g., instant messaging, video calls).
      • Understand and respect different communication preferences.
    5. Manage your own biases:
      • Challenge any preconceived notions you might have about younger managers.
      • Focus on their skills and leadership qualities rather than age.
    6. Highlight your strengths:
      • Demonstrate how your experience and skills complement the team’s needs.
      • Show how your long-term perspective can be valuable for strategic planning.
    7. Be a team player:
      • It’s no playtime. Support your supervisor’s decisions publicly, even if you disagree privately.
      • Offer constructive feedback in appropriate settings.
    8. Stay current:
      • Keep up with industry trends and new technologies.
      • Show initiative in updating your skills.
    9. Practice active listening:
      • Give full attention to your supervisor’s ideas and directives.
      • Ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding.
    10. Seek feedback proactively:
      • Ask for regular performance feedback.
      • Show willingness to adapt based on constructive criticism.
    11. Find common ground:
      • Look for shared interests or values beyond work.
      • Build a relationship based on mutual understanding and respect.
    12. Offer mentorship subtly:
      • If appropriate, offer to share your knowledge in areas where you have deep expertise.
      • Frame it as supporting their success rather than undermining their authority.
    13. Embrace change:
      • Be open to new processes or workflows your millennial supervisor might implement.
      • Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability.
    14. Focus on results:
      • Align your work with the goals and metrics your supervisor values.
      • Demonstrate your value through your performance and outcomes.

    It’s hard and often uncomfortable. But remember, successful intergenerational workplace relationships are built on mutual respect, open communication, and a willingness to learn from each other. By focusing on these elements, older adults can create positive and productive relationships with their millennial supervisors.

    16 Ways For A Procrastinator To Get Things Done

    Procrastination makes easy things hard, hard things harder.

    Mason Cooley

    Author? Writer? Project Manager? On-the-job administrator? Are you one of those persons who find themselves with several lists of things to ‘finish’? Procrastinating it’s called. You start doing laundry, then realize you need to mow the lawn, or pick up groceries so off you rush to do that leaving several observable tasks undone. You mean well but it keeps happening. A task here, another there and on and on it goes. You never seem to catch up.

    Well for people who struggle with completing projects and find themselves juggling multiple unfinished tasks, here are some effective strategies:

    1. Prioritize and focus:
      • List all ongoing projects.
      • Rank them based on importance, urgency, and potential impact.
      • Choose 1-3 top priorities to focus on exclusively.
    2. Break projects into smaller tasks:
      • Divide each project into manageable, specific steps.
      • Create a detailed action plan for each step.
    3. Set clear deadlines:
      • Establish realistic timelines for each project and its components.
      • Use a calendar or project management tool to track deadlines.
    4. Implement the “Two-Minute Rule”:
      • If a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately.
      • This helps prevent small tasks from piling up.
    5. Use the Pomodoro Technique:
      • Work in focused 25-minute intervals, followed by short breaks.
      • This can help maintain concentration and prevent burnout.
    6. Create accountability:
      • Share your goals and deadlines with a friend, colleague, or mentor.
      • Regular check-ins can help keep you on track.
    7. Limit new commitments:
      • Learn to say “no” to new projects until current ones are completed.
      • Assess carefully before taking on additional work.
    8. Eliminate distractions:
      • Identify and minimize common distractions (e.g., social media, unnecessary meetings).
      • Create a focused work environment.
    9. Celebrate small wins:
      • Acknowledge and reward yourself for completing project milestones.
      • This builds momentum and motivation.
    10. Re-evaluate regularly:
      • Periodically assess if projects are still relevant or necessary.
      • Be willing to abandon or postpone projects that no longer align with your goals.
    11. Use visual progress tracking:
      • Employ kanban boards or progress bars to visualize project advancement.
      • Seeing progress can be motivating.
    12. Address perfectionism:
      • Recognize if perfectionism is causing delays.
      • Focus on “good enough” for initial completion, then refine if necessary.
    13. Schedule dedicated project time:
      • Allocate specific time blocks for working on projects.
      • Treat these as non-negotiable appointments.
    14. Seek closure:
      • Develop a habit of finishing what you start, even in small ways.
      • Practice completing minor tasks to build the “finishing” muscle.
    15. Learn from past patterns:
      • Analyze why projects typically remain unfinished.
      • Address recurring issues (e.g., lack of resources, skill gaps).
    16. Use the “Sunk Cost Fallacy” awareness:
      • Be willing to let go of projects that are no longer serving you, regardless of time already invested.

    Are you a procrastinator? If so, did any of the above appeal to you? Hope you find a few useful. Note that by implementing these strategies, individuals can improve their project completion rates and reduce the stress of managing multiple unfinished tasks. The key is to find a balance between focus, organization, and flexibility.

    Happy Finishing!

    30 Common Side Hustles To Choose From …

    It’s not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for.

    Robert Kiyosaki

    Women often face unique financial challenges due to various societal, economic, and cultural factors. These challenges have been exacerbated especially since the pandemic. To become financially independent simple solutions through participating in additional income streams can help.

    There are many side hustles people pursue to earn extra income. Here’s a list of common and popular options.

    1. Freelance writing or editing
    2. Virtual assistance
    3. Social media management
    4. Online tutoring or teaching
    5. Web design or development
    6. Graphic design
    7. Photography or videography
    8. Rideshare driving (Uber, Lyft)
    9. Food delivery services (DoorDash, Uber Eats)
    10. Pet sitting or dog walking
    11. House cleaning or organizing services
    12. Personal shopping or errand running
    13. Selling handmade items on Etsy
    14. Dropshipping or e-commerce
    15. Blogging or vlogging
    16. Podcast hosting
    17. Affiliate marketing
    18. Renting out a spare room on Airbnb
    19. Selling items on eBay or Amazon
    20. Online surveys or user testing
    21. Transcription services
    22. Voice acting or voiceover work
    23. Personal training or fitness coaching
    24. Lawn care or landscaping
    25. Car detailing
    26. Bookkeeping or accounting services
    27. Resume writing
    28. Translation services
    29. Music lessons
    30. Event planning or coordination

    Before You Choose

    When considering a side hustle, it’s important to:

    1. Assess your skills and interests
    2. Consider the time commitment required
    3. Evaluate the potential income versus effort
    4. Ensure it doesn’t conflict with your primary job
    5. Research any legal or tax implications

    Did any of the above side hustles appeal to you? Here’s hoping you got a few ideas to choose from. The only caution is to make sure that your skills are up to par with the side hustle selected. And also to be mindful of your work/life balance.

    Happy Hustling!

    Empowering Women’s Ascent

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    We can endure much more than we think we can.

    Frida Kahlo

    Empowering Women’s Ascent. A great event for sisters, friends or colleagues to boost your self esteem, increase your knowledge, set goals, become assertive, practice self-care and more. The Writers Group of South Florida’s upcoming Women’s Empowerment event promises to be inspiring and an event not to be missed. It will be held at the West Regional Library Broward Boulevard, Plantation, Florida on Saturday, September 28.

    Attendees will be inspired by thought provoking topics including:

    • Women in Leadership: Empowering Women to rise into leadership roles to reach their full potential
    • Learn the Challenges women face and the strategies to overcome
    • Breakthrough: Transitioning from Burnout to Balance helping driven women and busy moms transform their thinking and redefine balance in their lives
    • Achieving Financial Independence: Enabling women to gain control of their financial futures and becoming financially secure.

    The event will be cemented by an exciting Panel Discussion with Founder, VP Records and Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Patricia Chin (Miss Pat).

    Other guest speakers include Dr. Susan Davis, Attorney Asiah Wolfolk Manning, The Sisters and yours truly, Dr. Shelly.

    This empowerment event promises to be great. In South Florida? Plan to attend and if you’re not, we will revert with all the Deets post event.



    10 Myths About Coaching

    Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership (International Coaching Federation – ICF)

    People often misunderstand what coaching is. It is often misinterpreted as only being needed by people who need to improve their on-the-job performance or when facing challenges. To provide clarity, here are some common myths about coaching:

    1. Coaching is only for underperformers or people with problems
    2. Coaches need to be experts in their client’s field
    3. Coaching is the same as mentoring or consulting
    4. Coaching is only for executives or high-level leaders
    5. Coaching is a quick fix for complex issues
    6. Good coaches always have the answers
    7. Coaching is just giving advice
    8. Coaching is only focused on professional development
    9. You only need coaching when you’re facing a crisis
    10. Coaching is an unnecessary expense

    If any or a few of the above stands out to you, lets connect to demystify the myths. Connect to learn the value.

    Cheers!

    50 Things I’ve Learned In The Last 50 Years

    50 Lessons At 50

    Wisdom deepens with age, and at 50, it’s a treasure.

    Here are 50 things I have learnt as I traversed a life dedicated to learning, community and personal growth of myself and others. The excess have been included as a gift for those who are more curious and may choose to adopt a nugget or two as you transition at ages 30, 40, 60 or above.

    May you be inspired to achieve.

    1. Let no one define what success means to you. Define it for yourself.
    2. Afraid? Do it anyway. Fear will fade.
    3. Life is just for living. Live it well.
    4. Care for others.
    5. Trust is important.
    6. Try new things. Keep learning. It helps you grow.
    7. Self-actualization stops at the top. When you get there, go higher or step back to something that you missed along the way.
    8. Be there for your loved ones. If not, you’ll miss the best things in life.
    9. Find meaning in the things that you do.
    10. Place Work in the right place.
    11. Spirituality is important.
    12. Some people are beautiful. Others are just searching. They Maybe sad or even lonely. Don’t hold it against them.
    13. When you’re at the top, stay true to who you are. You’ll see the same people on your way down.
    14. Be cordial. It contributes to your success.
    15. Smile often. It attracts.
    16. Read. It’s an action.
    17. Pray about everything.
    18. Give thanks in all things.
    19. Say thank you.
    20. Stay curious. Ask Questions.
    21. Find a mantra – a quote that drives you to achieve.
    22. Believe that all things are possible because they are.
    23. Get a dog.
    24. Don’t understand something? Ask. You may help someone in the same situation as yourself.
    25. Show up.
    26. Get involved in your community.
    27. Roll up your sleeves and work.
    28. Go to the beach. Be mesmerized by the waves, the sea and its natural beauty.
    29. Look up. Get inspired.
    30. Dream it. Then work it. You’ll achieve it.
    31. Embrace love. It’s beautiful.
    32. Fight for what you want.
    33. Don’t give up too easily.
    34. Be smart. Know when it’s time to let go.
    35. Move on when the time is right.
    36. Try something new.
    37. Get away often. Stress dissipates.
    38. Travel the world.
    39. Try a staycation.
    40. Bask in beautiful memories.
    41. Celebrate other’s success.
    42. Mourn with those who mourn.
    43. Appreciate depth.
    44. Be yourself… always.
    45. You’re never too old to try something new.
    46. Take care of yourself.
    47. Listen to your body. It speaks.
    48. Save for a rainy day.
    49. Age teaches wisdom but it also brings sighs when you watch others making the mistakes you did because they won’t listen. But remember everyone has to grow on their own path. Don’t be sad, they will learn and make their own U-turn.
    50. Pray with others.
    51. Listen to that still small voice.
    52. Don’t let life pass you by. Stop and smell the roses.
    53. Stay engaged. Learn.
    54. Relax. Watch a movie.
    55. Smell the rain. Embrace the sunshine.
    56. Plan a trip with extended family.
    57. Be there for someone who needs you.
    58. Dress up for no reason.
    59. Have dinner by yourself. Experience you.
    60. Surprise a friend.
    61. It’s time. Don’t put it off anymore.
    62. Go for a walk. Ease stress.
    63. Call a parent, grandparent or someone elderly.
    64. Volunteer to help a neighbor.
    65. Go on a solo retreat at least once in your lifetime. You’ll find out a lot about yourself.
    66. Keep your eye on that goal.
    67. Get an accountability partner or a coach if you need help.
    68. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
    69. Journal your thoughts. It’s great to look back and reflect on how far you have come. Besides, it helps build mental strength.
    70. Keep your mouth shut. Share only what needs to be said.
    71. You can count on me. Can others count on you?
    72. Take accountability for your actions.
    73. Stay focused on your future but don’t become so obsessed that you miss the journey.
    74. Life is what you make it. Make it great.
    75. You win some. You lose some. That’s life. Move on.
    76. Celebrate.
    77. Dance like nobody is watching.

    10 Emerging Trends Of The Executive Coaching Industry

    If you walk in the footprints of others you will never make your own.

    Leader overwhelm. Personal transitions. Change. Stuck. These are but a few of the signs associated with coaching. As these signs become more common, so has the evolution of the demand for coaching. No longer is it limited to basketball players, Olympians, or sports, we all need a coach. Hence the rise compounded with the needs and desires for accountability.

    The executive coaching industry has been growing rapidly, driven by increased recognition of its value in personal and professional development. Here are some interesting facts and trends about the industry:

    Interesting Facts

    1. Market Growth: The executive coaching industry is part of the larger coaching market, which was estimated to be worth over $2.8 billion globally in 2021 and continues to grow at a robust pace.
    2. High ROI: Studies have shown that executive coaching can offer a return on investment (ROI) of up to 700%, with significant improvements in productivity, employee engagement, and leadership effectiveness.
    3. Wide Adoption: Approximately 86% of companies utilize coaching, and about 70% of these organizations offer coaching to their executives and high-potential employees.
    4. Diverse Applications: Executive coaching is used across various sectors including corporate, non-profit, and government organizations. It addresses a wide range of leadership challenges, from strategic thinking to emotional intelligence.
    5. Credentials and Standards: The industry has seen an increase in professional standards, with many coaches obtaining certifications from organizations like the International Coach Federation (ICF) and the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE).

    Emerging Trends

    1. Integration of Technology: The use of digital tools, AI, and virtual platforms has become prevalent, making coaching more accessible and personalized. Online coaching platforms and apps are increasingly popular.
    2. Focus on Well-being: There is a growing emphasis on holistic coaching that includes mental health and well-being alongside traditional leadership and performance coaching.
    3. Data-Driven Coaching: The incorporation of data analytics and psychometric assessments is helping to provide more tailored and effective coaching interventions.
    4. Diversity and Inclusion: Coaching programs are increasingly addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping leaders to foster inclusive workplace cultures.
    5. Short-Term, High-Impact Sessions: There is a trend towards shorter, more intensive coaching engagements designed to address specific challenges or goals in a condensed timeframe.
    6. Group and Team Coaching: Beyond one-on-one coaching, there is a rise in group and team coaching, which aims to improve overall team dynamics and performance.
    7. Leadership Development Programs: More organizations are integrating executive coaching into broader leadership development programs, recognizing the synergistic benefits.
    8. Coaching for All Levels: While traditionally reserved for senior executives, coaching is increasingly being made available to employees at all levels, including mid-level managers and emerging leaders.
    9. Emphasis on Soft Skills: There is a heightened focus on developing soft skills such as emotional intelligence, communication, and resilience, which are critical for effective leadership.
    10. Sustainable Leadership: Coaching is increasingly focusing on sustainable leadership practices, encouraging leaders to consider the long-term impact of their decisions on people and the planet.

    Personally, as a certified leadership coach, These trends reflect the dynamic nature of the executive coaching industry and its critical role in developing effective leaders in our rapidly changing business environment.

    What has been your experience in coaching? Anything missing from the above? Do share. We would love to hear!

    Cheers!

    10 Protocol Keys For Aspiring Leaders Attending Professional Events

    Etiquette is what you are doing and saying when people are looking and listening. What you are thinking is your business. ~Virginia Cary Hudson

    Navigating business events can be challenging, especially for aspiring young adult leaders. Learn the essential Etiquette Tips to help you make a great impression. Pay keen attention to the do’s and don’ts of professional conduct, from networking to dress code, and ensure you stand out for all the right reasons! Brief chat with Executive Coach, Maxine Barnett provides an engaging snippet. Focusing on the ensuing key points will propel your personal growth.

    Dressing For Success

    1. Understand the Dress Code: Research and adhere to the dress code of the organization or event. If unsure, err on the side of being slightly more formal.
    2. Professional Attire: Opt for business suits, blazers, and dress shirts for a formal setting. Business casual might include smart trousers or skirts paired with a blouse or collared shirt.
    3. Grooming: Ensure personal grooming is impeccable. Hair should be neat, nails clean, and makeup (if worn) should be subtle and professional.
    4. Comfortable Footwear: Choose polished, comfortable shoes. Avoid overly casual footwear.
    5. Minimal Accessories: Keep accessories minimal and tasteful. Avoid flashy jewelry or anything that might be distracting.

    Conducting Yourself

    1. Punctuality: Always arrive on time. Plan to be there at least 10 minutes early to settle in and prepare.
    2. Body Language: Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. These non-verbal cues convey confidence and attentiveness.
    3. Active Listening: Show that you are engaged by nodding, smiling, and taking notes. Avoid interrupting the speaker.
    4. Clear Communication: Speak clearly and concisely. Be mindful of your tone and ensure it is respectful and professional.
    5. Preparedness: Come to the meeting prepared with any necessary documents, reports, or notes. Familiarize yourself with the agenda and topics of discussion.
    6. Participation: Contribute to discussions thoughtfully. Offer insights and ask relevant questions, but avoid dominating the conversation.
    7. Respect: Show respect for all attendees, regardless of their position. Listen to differing viewpoints and avoid any negative or dismissive behavior.
    8. Technology Etiquette: Silence your phone and other devices. If you must use a laptop or tablet, do so discreetly and only for meeting-related tasks.
    9. Follow-Up: After the meeting, send follow-up emails if necessary, summarizing key points or next steps. This demonstrates attention to detail and commitment to ongoing communication.
    10. Professional Relationships: Use the opportunity to build and nurture professional relationships. Network courteously and express appreciation for the time and input of others.

    By following these guidelines, you, as an aspiring leaders can present yourself as professional, competent, and respectful participants in any business meeting.

    Are there any points you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.

    Cheers!

    What Is Your Biggest Fear?

    We all become fearful at one point or other. So when this Question was asked in a public forum: “What is your biggest fear?” I was in intrigued and quickly scanned the conversation. Here I share excerpts gleaned as the public chimed in.

    • Not being enough
    • Unhappiness
    • Financial stability
    • Being alone
    • Gaining weight
    • Losing myself
    • Marriage breaking up
    • My writing failing
    • Being list at my career
    • The vast ocean
    • Can’t help family financially
    • Not living up to expectations
    • Losing my dream
    • Fear of disappointing everyone
    • Failing exams
    • Abandonment
    • Adulthood
    • Being left alone
    • Taken for granted
    • Choosing the wrong career path
    • Not knowing how to make new friends

    Fear is real. Sometimes it puts a limit on us. Like I have always said, don’t let fear stop you from achieving your goals and dreams. Do it afraid if you have to. Don’t let fear stop.

    What are you afraid if? Share. We would love to hear.

    Cheers!

    Photo by Ono Kosuki on Pexels.com

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