Tag: Leaders

Why Year-End Triggers Career Reflection

You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind. ~Hillary DePiano 

The end of the year naturally invokes a period of career reflection, which serves as a psychological milestone that compels professionals to pause and assess their journey. As the calendar approaches its final weeks, individuals are instinctively drawn to introspection, triggered by a combination of cultural traditions, personal goal-setting practices, and an innate human desire for growth and meaning. This time of reflection is fueled by the contrast between the year’s accomplishments and unfulfilled aspirations, creating the opportunity for honest self-evaluation (hint …that common ideal weight loss plan).

Also read: Conquering Transition Doubts

The approaching new year symbolizes renewal and potential, encouraging professionals to reflect on their career trajectory, measure progress against past objectives, and recalibrate their professional vision. Factors like annual performance reviews, financial assessments, industry shifts, and personal life changes converge during this period, making it an ideal time to critically reflect on career satisfaction, skill development, alignment with long-term goals, and potential opportunities for growth or transformation.

Consequently, here are a number of pointers that discusses this period of reflection along with recommendation. Not a self-starter , we can help.

Natural Evaluation Period

  • Annual performance reviews
  • Reflecting on past year’s achievements
  • Setting new personal goals
  • Psychological reset moment

Emotional Triggers

  • Holiday season brings perspective
  • Family gatherings prompt life discussions
  • Increased time for self-reflection
  • Motivation from new year anticipation

Professional Burnout

  • Accumulated workplace stress
  • Desire for meaningful change
  • Recognizing current job’s limitations
  • Seeking personal fulfillment

External Evaluation

  • Social conversations about resolutions
  • Seeing others make bold moves
  • Increased motivational content
  • Feeling inspired by potential

Strategic Approach

  • Budget reassessment
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Market trend observations
  • Personal development planning

Motivational Approach

  • Embrace fear as growth signal
  • Start with small, low-risk steps
  • Build confidence gradually
  • Seek professional guidance
  • Create solid transition plan

Recommended Actions

  • Self-assessment
  • Skill inventory
  • Informational interviews
  • Part-time exploration
  • Professional coaching
  • Continuous learning

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Adapt the motivational approach along with the recommended actions. But if you need the expertise of a coach who can help. Better yet, purchase a gift certificate for a friend experiencing these signs and help him/her kick off the new year with a difference.

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.

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!

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

Top 30 Under 30 Honoree Celebration Ceremony

Be the change you wish to see in the world. Indeed it was such a joy to lead this youth empowering passion project during Caribbean American Heritage Month as I joined with Dr. Claire A. Nelson White House champion of change, Maxine Barnett and team to lead the Recognition Ceremony of this year’s top 30 Under 30 honorees who travelled from different states and countries.

Thanks to our host Executive Director Mr. Robert Le Hunte and team, we
converged at the Inter-American Development Bank on June 14th.

Personally, my heart bursts with joy as the youth ambassadors passionately presented their goals and innovative ideas.

These aspiring leaders shared projects ranging from Robotics, climate change vs youth inclusivity, carnival’s exciting cultural events amidst the impact on the environment, carwash waste management, foster care, homelessness, disability efforts. Other projects that came to light by this year’s Ignite Caribbean
young leaders were on advocacy towards Banned Books, education, and more.

Thanks Miranda Caribbean Community in Philadelphia for presenting each honoree with gift packages including copies of my books on Success Strategies, leadership, immigrant women experiences etc

We appreciate the efforts of our co-chairs Bradley Downer and Stephanie Simon for their outstanding support! To our judges Abby Charles Maxine Barnett MSc BA CPC Janeala Morsby, PhD Dr. Lisa K. Soares Kimberly campbell Miranda Alexander.

Kudos to our Sponsors Trevor A Smith Dr. Roxanne Valies Authentic Caribbean Foundation Global Coaching Corner Jeanette and Janell Andrews

Indeed We are grateful for your partnership.

Learn more about each candidate and their projects at http://www.ignitecaribbean.org

Overcome Imposter Syndrome in Leadership

I did it!

Imposter syndrome is a persistent unjustified feeling that one’s success is fraudulent. Imposter syndrome is characterized by doubt in one’s abilities—despite a record of achievement or respect from one’s peers—and a fear of having one’s unworthiness exposed.

Britannica

Congratulations on your promotion! Yet, as you step into your new role, you may find yourself grappling with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This phenomenon, commonly known as imposter syndrome, can plague even the most accomplished individuals, especially when thrust into unfamiliar territory without proper training or support.

As a new manager, you may be questioning your abilities, second-guessing your decisions, and fearing that at any moment, someone will expose you as a fraud. These feelings are not uncommon, but they can hinder your performance and diminish your confidence.

But don’t be afraid, for there is a way forward. With the right guidance and coaching, you can forge your way through these periods of uncertainty and emerge as a confident and capable leader. Through targeted strategies and personalized support, you can learn to silence your inner critic, cultivate self-assurance, and embrace your newfound role with authenticity and resilience.

During coaching sessions, you explore the root causes of your imposter syndrome, identify limiting beliefs, and develop practical techniques to overcome them. From effective communication and decision-making skills to building strong relationships and managing expectations, you will be equipped with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in your leadership journey.

Remember, you were chosen for this role for a reason. You possess unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives that have prepared you for this moment. Let’s connect. Together, we will unlock your full potential and empower you to lead with confidence, integrity, and authenticity.

It’s time to banish the doubts, embrace your strengths, and step into your leadership with conviction. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together.

Cheers!

Photo by Ono Kosuki on Pexels.com

10 Thoughtful And Practical Gift Ideas For Women Leaders This Mother’s Day

The Perfect Gift for Her

Some gifts are big. Others are small. But the ones that come from the heart are the best gifts of all.

Tinku Razoria

Celebrations, Birthdays, Mother’s Day, Selfcare Days…. no matter the occasion, it is always hard to find the ideal gift for the perfect mom, sister, co-worker, best friend to encourage or simply to say Thanks to one who did a kind deed. Here are 10 thoughtful and practical gift ideas for women leaders.

Gifts for Her

  1. Professional Development Books: Gift a selection of books on leadership, personal development, or career advancement. Choose titles that align with the recipient’s interests and goals, such as “Ditch It, Switch It“, “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg or “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown.
  2. Journal or Planner: A stylish journal or planner can help women leaders stay organized, set goals, and track their progress. Look for a high-quality notebook with inspirational quotes or customizable sections for reflection and planning.
  3. Online Course or Workshop: Invest in an online course or workshop that aligns with the recipient’s professional development goals. Whether it’s leadership skills, negotiation tactics, or public speaking, there are plenty of options available to enhance their skills and knowledge.
  4. Executive Coaching Sessions: Provide the gift of personalized coaching sessions with a professional executive coach. This one-on-one support can help women leaders overcome challenges, set strategic goals, and accelerate their career growth.
  5. Membership to Professional Networks: Consider gifting a membership to a professional organization or networking group tailored to women leaders in their industry. This provides opportunities for networking, mentorship, and access to valuable resources and events.
  6. Tech Gadgets or Accessories: Surprise her with a stylish and functional tech gadget or accessory that enhances productivity and efficiency, such as a smartwatch, wireless headphones, or a sleek laptop bag.
  7. Self-Care Package: Put together a self-care package filled with pampering essentials like scented candles, bath salts, herbal teas, and skincare products. Encourage women leaders to prioritize their well-being and recharge their batteries.
  8. Mindfulness or Meditation Tools: Help women leaders manage stress and promote mindfulness with gifts like a meditation app subscription, aromatherapy diffuser, or a set of meditation cushions.
  9. Personalized Leadership Assessment: Invest in a personalized leadership assessment tool or 360-degree feedback survey to help women leaders gain valuable insights into their strengths, areas for improvement, and leadership style.
  10. Inspiring Artwork or Decor: Choose a piece of artwork or decor that inspires and motivates women leaders in their workspace. Whether it’s a motivational quote print, a vibrant painting, or a decorative desk accessory, find something that resonates with their aspirations and values.

These gift ideas for women leaders combine practicality, inspiration, and personalization to support their professional growth and well-being.

Which gift pulls you in? Is there another or a few that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Connect now to gift that personalized gift of Executive Coaching or personalized leadership assessment today. It is the gift that keeps on giving.

Cheers!

Photo by Ioana Motoc on Pexels.com

Achieve In Months What Might Take Years On Your Own …

Don’t let mental blocks control you. Set yourself free. Confront your fear and turn the mental blocks into building blocks.

Dr. Roopleen

Whether you feel stuck in your career, overwhelmed as a supervisor or simply want to maximize your performance, coaching could be the key to achieving in months what might take years alone. The top signs you will benefit from working with a coach are discussed in the video.

  • You feel stuck and unable to move forward.
  • You are struggling to Balance work, life and personal commitments.
  • You are in a Leadership role but feel out of your depth.
  • You are going through significant life or career transition.

Invest less than 10 minutes to watch this video and discover the power of coaching for yourself! The returns could change the trajectory of your personal and professional life.

Unlocking Potential: 5 Signs It’s Time for Supervisor Training

Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.

John F. Kennedy

New supervisors are hesitant yet eager to dive into the job. Without training, mistakes happen. Behaviors indicating the need for supervisory training are shown here. Take a look and based on your observation, identify any that may need to be corrected.

1. Poor Communication

Poor communication skills exhibited when supervisor fails to set clear expectations, give direct feedback, listen actively.

2. Lack Leadership Presence

I’m not gonna lie, leadership ain’t easy. Managers who lack leadership presence are unable to command respect, build relationships, or influence others.

3. Ineffective Delegation

Ineffective at delegating – micromanages employees instead of empowering and trusting

4. Unable to Develop Team

Supervisors are unable to develop team – little coaching or support for the team’s professional growth

5. Poor at Managing Conflict

Poor at managing conflict shown through avoiding difficult conversations. Often, they let issues fester.

6. Fails to Align and Motivate

Failing to align and motivate employees. No vision, inspiration or strategic direction provided.

Recognize any of these behaviors in yourself, co-worker, family member or friend? It’s not a tradition. There is always hope. Training, one on one or group coaching can improve the behaviors those supervising leaders can received.

Need help? Lets connect.

12 Warning Signs You Might Need A Coach

The 12 warning signs you might need a coach a stellar Rachel Turner share. A list you would be mad to miss:

  1. You feel stuck.
    You feel stuck in your personal or professional life, unable to move forward.
  2. Lack of clarity.
    You’re unsure about your goals or next steps in life.
  3. Recurring negative patterns. 
    You notice repeating negative patterns in your behavior or relationships.
  4. Balance issues.
    You’re struggling to balance work, life, and personal commitments.
  5. Decision paralysis.
    Making decisions feels overwhelming or impossible.
  6. Low confidence.
    You often doubt yourself and your abilities.
  7. Communication challenges.
    You find it difficult to communicate effectively in personal or professional settings.
  8. Leadership struggles.
    You’re in a leadership role but feel out of your depth.
  9. Chronic stress.
    Managing stress has become increasingly challenging.
  10. Transitioning phases.
    You’re going through a significant life or career transition.
  11. Seeking growth.
    You’re eager for personal or professional growth but don’t know where to start.
  12. Lack of accountability.
    You find it hard to hold yourself accountable.

Here’s what a coach can do:

✨ Provide clarity in your chaos.
✨ Offer unbiased feedback.
✨ Help you identify and break negative patterns.
✨ Guide you through life’s transitions.
✨ Boost your decision-making skills.
✨ Elevate your leadership abilities.

Because sometimes, the only thing standing between you and your goals is you.

11 Challenges Of First Time Supervisors …

Manage the Overwhelm

Janet was elated when she was promoted for her exceptional skills and expertise in performing her job. Within a few weeks she called expressing her frustration as she felt like an imposter. She was finding it difficult to handle the challenges of her new role.

Challenges and Problems New Supervisors Face

Here are some common problems and challenges new supervisors often face:

  1. Lack Authority -Promoted but struggle to influence former peers.
  2. Ineffective Delegation – New supervisors may want to prove themselves by doing it all without delegating. End up micromanaging or miss opportunities to empower their team.
  3. Poor Time Management – Often end up buried in daily tasks compromising productivity.
  4. Mishandling Performance – avoid difficult conversation or acting too aggressively to assert authority.
  5. Poor Communication skills -Giving direction or feedback is unclear, not listening or making assumptions.
  6. Maintaining friendships – Boundaries blur as new supervisors must now manage former co-workers who were friends.
  7. Lack of leadership training – often promoted without receiving adequate training.
  8. Unrealistic expectations – new supervisors may feel they know everything already or may want to quick-fix long standing issues quickly.
  9. Imposter syndrome – doubt their abilities, lack confidence, or feel underqualified.
  10. Stress and work/life balance – they become overwhelmed by the pressures of the responsibilities of the new role.
  11. Go it Alone – Does not seek help from a coach who can help them navigate the new role.

With proper mentoring, training, and experience over time, these common pitfalls can be overcome. Patience, self-awareness, and a learning mindset are key for successfully transitioning to supervisor.

Connect with a leadership coach who will help you confidentially maneuver the challenges of your new role.

Questions or need to add any missing challenge? Do share, we would be glad to hear.

Cheers!

Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

9+ Ways To Defeat Procrastination

You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.

Abraham Lincoln

A colleague shared her exhaustion with what she termed as her habitual procrastination. She was tired of incomplete tasks in her life and asked for help.

Avoiding procrastination is essential for leaders and professionals to maintain productivity and achieve goals. Here are 9+ key points shared to help overcome this practice.

1.Self-Awareness

Recognize your procrastination habits and understand the underlying causes. Self-awareness is the first step to change.

2.Prioritization

Prioritizing tasks is essential. Leaders should focus on high-impact, high-priority activities first.

3.Set Clear Goals

Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Having clear objectives provides motivation and direction.

4.Time Management

Use effective time management techniques, such as time blocking, to help you allocate your time efficiently.

5. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps

Practice breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This makes tasks less daunting and more achievable.

6.Delegation

Trust more. Delegate tasks to capable team members when possible. Delegation frees up time for strategic thinking and higher-priority activities.

7. Overcoming Perfectionism

Are you a perfectionist? Often this tendency fuels procrastination through delaying completing projects until they are perfect. Focus on progress, not perfection.

8. Accountability

Set up an accountability system, such as working with a mentor, coach, or a peer who can hold you responsible for deadlines and commitments.

9. Eliminate Distractions

Identify strategies to minimize distractions, whether it’s turning off notifications, setting specific work hours, or creating a clutter-free workspace.

10. Self-Motivation

Identify your intrinsic motivation. What drives them to succeed? Connecting with their personal “why” can provide the push you need.

11. Time for Self-Care

Practice taking regular breaks and prioritize self-care. A well-rested and healthy leader is less likely to procrastinate.

12. Mindfulness and Focus

Adopt mindfulness practices and techniques that can improve focus and attention, reducing the temptation to procrastinate.

13. Positive Self-Talk

Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Confidence can help combat procrastination.

14. Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can reinforce productivity.

15. Continuous Improvement

Focus on the concept of continuous improvement. As a Leader, it is important to regularly assess your time management and productivity strategies and adjust as needed.

16. Seek Professional Support

If procrastination is chronic and significantly hinders your leadership effectiveness, seek support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in procrastination or time management issues.

As a certified Master leadership coach, I provide support, guidance, and accountability to leaders to help them work to overcome procrastination. Implementing the strategies articulated here and developing healthy habits will lead to more effective and efficient leadership.

Need help, lets connect today.

Cheers!

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