mental-health – Success Strategies

3 Tips To Manage Leadership Overthink

Take time to deliberate, but when the time for action has arrived, stop thinking and go in. ~Napoleon Bonaparte

Ever found yourself checking and rechecking about a decision you have to make. It might be a presentation, a college selection, submission of a business proposal or even a marriage proposition (yikes)! It happens. It’s called overthinking which is defined as:

Putting too much time into thinking about or analyzing (something)

Overthinking is one of the biggest blocks for both leaders and business owners because it drains time, energy, and confidence. Here are 3 tips to stop overthinking.

1. Decide. Then Detach

Perfection isn’t progress. Once you’ve made a well-informed decision, commit then detach from the fear of “what if.” Every decision gives feedback: it either moves you forward or teaches you what to adjust. Leaders who wait for certainty often miss their moment.

Try this: Set a “decision deadline” give yourself 24 hours to choose, then move on confidently.

2. Shift From Thinking to Doing

Action is the antidote to overthinking. When you’re stuck in analysis, your mind loops on the same thoughts. But when you take even a small step, such as sending the email; posting the content, calling the client; actions like these contributes to you gathering real data, not imagined fears.

Ask yourself: What’s one small action I can take right now?

3. Practice Mental Stillness

Overthinking thrives in noise. Silence and stillness help you separate truth from fear. Try journaling, prayer, or a five-minute “mind reset” before diving into decisions. It’s not laziness, it’s leadership discipline.

Remember: Still minds make strong moves.

COACHING INSIGHT

Overthinking often signals self-doubt, not lack of skill. Leadership coaching helps identify those inner beliefs and build confidence. It then replaces the cycle of worry with a rhythm of wise action.

How about you? Are you an overthinker? Which of the 3 tips can you implement now? On the other hand, were you an overthinker? If so, how did you get over it? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Starting Over At 50. Finding Purpose Again

Midlife transitioners face feelings of sadness especially when work, independence and purpose feel out of reach. This is a common scenario I have found in my coaching practice amongst mature women. They complain, sulk and feel ‘why bother’ (as in the case of a recent discussion). For women experiencing these feelings, here are 7 thoughtful strategies of how 50+-year-old women in this situation can begin moving forward. Adopting these strategies can help them regain control of their life, emotionally, practically, and spiritually.

1.Start With Emotional Healing

Before any external progress, healing the inner voice is key.

Acknowledge your feelings; grief, frustration, even shame, as valid. You’re not alone; many older adults feel invisible or “left behind” as the four stages of elimination in life profess.
Seek emotional support: a counselor, therapist, or support group for midlife depression can help rebuild self-worth.
Practice daily motivation and affirmations: “My life still has purpose.” “I am capable of starting again.” Small mindset shifts add up.
Faith & reflection: If you’re spiritually inclined, journaling prayers or reading devotionals about renewal (e.g., Isaiah 43:19… “Behold, I am doing a new thing…”) can anchor your hope.

2.Rebuild Self-Worth and Confidence

Depression often comes from feeling “useless,” so rediscovering value is important.

Revisit strengths and experiences. Make a list of past achievements, career skills, and life lessons.
Volunteer or mentor. Helping others (e.g., tutoring, mentoring younger professionals, or supporting community causes) reminds her that her wisdom matters.
Refresh her image. A new hairstyle, headshot, or wardrobe doesn’t just change how others see her — it helps her feel renewed.

3.Redefine Purpose and Direction

You may be entering a new season, not the end of your working life. Shift from “job-seeking” to “value-offering.” Instead of asking “who will hire me?” you should ask, “where can my experience help someone solve a problem?”

Consider flexible or freelance work:

Virtual assistant or remote admin work
Customer service, tutoring, or caregiving
Consulting in your former field
Selling crafts, baked goods, or eBooks online
Take free online courses (Coursera, Google Digital Skills, LinkedIn Learning) to update your skillset and confidence.

4.Improve Her Job Search Strategy

Age can be an advantage when presented with confidence and skill.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Focus on experience, reliability, and mentoring skills rather than long timelines.
Network quietly and personally. Reach out to old colleagues or community connections; many opportunities come through relationships, not job boards.
Target age-friendly employers (AARP’s “Employer Pledge Program” lists companies committed to older workers).

5.Stabilize Finances and Environment

Small changes can ease immediate stress.

Seek community or senior resources: local housing or utility assistance programs, food banks, or financial coaching through nonprofits.
Budget for empowerment, not punishment. Even small control (like managing one bill or goal) restores agency.
Explore part-time or gig work (e.g., Instacart, pet-sitting, or online micro-tasks) as temporary bridges.

6. Build a New Daily Routine

Structure gives life purpose.

Morning: prayer, gratitude, short walk
Midday: job search, learning, or volunteer time
Evening: journal one positive action from the day
Even a simple daily rhythm can counter the “stuck” feeling.

7. Believe in Renewal

It’s never too late to rebuild. Many people in their 50’s and beyond start new careers, businesses, and callings. Your story isn’t over…it’s shifting.
Be encouraged. See yourself not as “unemployed,” but as “relaunching.”

Reflection:

“If I could start fresh today, what small step would make me feel proud by the end of this week?”

Hope these strategies help you overcome these feelings of apathy. If you’re not in that sphere and know someone who might be, please share with them. We are also here to help women regain confidence for their new chapter.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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!

Why Smart Leaders Get Stuck at Crossroads & How to Move Forward

When Leaders Face Dementia: How Do You Tell The World?

What happens when dementia touches the life of a leader? The impact reaches far beyond the individual. It affects families, caregivers, colleagues, and even public perception.

The Past Prime Minister of Jamaica, Portia Simpson-Miller was diagnosed with Dementia. Actor and famed Die Hard acclaim, Bruce Willis was recently transferred for deeper care. I thought of these leaders and pondered. Then decided to host a conversation to bring light to this issue for those suffering the early stages and the impact on caregivers.

In this thought-provoking panel discussion, Rianna Patterson MBPS a PhD student and former caregiver, Dr. Romario R. Simpson, JP physician, Chris Daley, explores the complexities of communicating, coping, and caring when dementia enters the public eye.

Emotional Challenges

Together, we unpack important questions:

How should public figures communicate a diagnosis while maintaining dignity and legacy?
What emotional and professional challenges do caregivers face behind the scenes?
How can organizations protect an affected leader with empathy and integrity?

This conversation bridges leadership, ethics, and humanity, offering insights for:
•Healthcare and HR professionals
•Executives and communication leaders
•Caregivers and families
•Students and researchers in health and social sciences

Dementia is not just a medical condition, it’s a leadership, communication, and compassion challenge.

Time to Watch

Watch the full discussion on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eaahEeqc

Join the conversation. Share your thoughts if you or someone you know is struggling with dementia.

The Power of Paying It Forward in Leadership

Pay it Forward

If you can’t pay it back, pay it forward. ~Catherine Ryan Hyde

Standing in line at the cashier, I decided to pay with the cash I had on hand. The amount came to the exact dollar amount in my wallet, except it needed thirteen cents more. I rummaged through my handbag to cover the difference. The woman behind me said, “Hey, I’ll get it for you.”

Instead of accepting her offer, I searched frantically for the coins, only to remember that I keep my change in the car. She repeated gently, “I’ll get it.” I insisted that I would pay her back when we got outside. She simply replied, “Pay it forward.” Immediately, I understood and promised I would.

I left the store, found the coins in my car, and was about to give her a quarter as she exited. Then I was reminded of her words about paying it forward. I took a deep breath, sighed, and drove away.

How many times has this happened to me? I genuinely like to give but am always hesitant to receive. As I coach my clients, I recognize it’s important to do both—give generously and also be willing to accept graciously in return. One friend once countered my reluctance by saying, “Don’t stop my blessings.”

Leaders Struggle

This simple exchange reveals a profound leadership lesson about the grace of receiving. Many leaders struggle with accepting help, viewing it as weakness or loss of control. However, graceful receiving is actually a powerful leadership skill that creates deeper connections and empowers others.

When we refuse help, we inadvertently rob others of the joy of giving and contributing. We also model unhealthy self-reliance that can isolate us from our teams and communities. The most effective leaders understand that accepting assistance with gratitude creates a culture of mutual support and reciprocity.

Consider this: Every time someone offers to help you—whether it’s covering thirteen cents, sharing an idea, or taking on a task—they’re extending trust and care. Your gracious acceptance validates their value and strengthens the relationship.

Challenge yourself this week to practice receiving with the same intentionality you bring to giving. Say “thank you” instead of “you didn’t have to.” Accept compliments without deflecting. Allow others to contribute to your success. Remember, true leadership isn’t about having all the answers or resources—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can contribute their gifts, including to you.

Pay it forward, yes. But first, allow yourself to receive what’s being offered.

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.

The Power of the In-Between: Leading Through Life’s Transitions

Sometimes God brings times of transition to create transformation. ~Lynn Cowell

Transition is not a sign that something’s gone wrong.
It’s often a sign that something deeply right is trying to emerge.

Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, stepping into leadership, returning to yourself after raising children, grieving a loss, starting over, or simply outgrowing who you used to be — you are not lost.

You are in motion.
And motion is sacred.

Transitions Aren’t Detours

So many of us have been taught to treat transitions like detours. Inconveniences. Delays.
But in my experience — and maybe in yours too — transitions are not detours. They are invitations.
Invitations to pause.
To listen.
To lead our lives more deliberately.

There’s a quote I love:

Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried but actually you’ve been planted

So if you’re feeling buried right now — by uncertainty, or fear, or change — know this:
You’re not stuck.
You’re becoming.

Whether it’s career change, motherhood, empty nesting, loss, or reinvention — transitions are not delays. They’re sacred invitations to pause, realign, and step into something deeper.

Who You Are Becoming is Just as Important as What You’re Doing

Our default in transition is to rush into action.
Update the resume. Apply for roles. Rebrand the business. Hustle harder.
But what if the first step wasn’t “What should I do?”
What if it was: “Who am I becoming?”

Because clarity doesn’t come from more motion.
It comes from alignment. From asking:

What do I no longer want to carry?
What am I being called to step into?
What version of me is ready to emerge?

This is your opportunity to shape your next self, not just your next job title, or business pivot, or life chapter.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

One of the hardest things about transitions? They can feel so lonely.
Especially for women who are used to being the strong ones, the fixers, the go-to for everyone else.

But here’s what I want to say to you today:
You are not alone. And you’re not the only one feeling “in between.”

Let this season be one where you ask for help.
Where you find community.
Where you give yourself permission to rebuild — slowly, honestly, bravely.

Because you don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward.
You just have to decide you’re worth the becoming.

Wrapping it Up

So if you’re in transition today — good.
It means you’re alive.
It means something inside you is shifting. Growing. Healing.
Honor that.

You don’t need to go back to who you were.
You are being invited to rise into who you’re becoming.

And I promise — she is worth the wait.

Going through a transition and feeling confused? Let’s connect

Cheers!

From Fear to Freedom: Conquering Career Transition Doubts

Fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the process is its own reward. —Amelia Earhart

Fear is real. Sometimes it retards us. Most times it’s just in our mind yet causes us to feel stuck, unable to make the move that we desire. Common is the fear to leave a career, change jobs, or reach for that promotion as we question ourselves. So, we stay where we are and before long months turn into years, years into decades and we remain in the same place.

So what can you do about it? Here is a concise breakdown of career change fears and year-end motivation.

Why Year-end Triggers Career Reflection

Common Career Change Fears

1.Financial Uncertainty

Potential income reduction
Financial stability risks
Fear of economic instability
Concerns about supporting family

2.Identity Loss

Defined by current professional role
Fear of starting over
Loss of established professional status
Questioning self-worth

3. Skill Gap Anxiety

Feeling underqualified
Learning curve intimidation
Self-doubt about adaptability
Imposter syndrome

4.Comfort Zone Resistance

Familiar routine feels safe
Fear of unknown
Risk aversion
Psychological safety in current job

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If so, it’s time to do something about it. Talk with a trusted friend or 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 different start. Conquer those transition doubts.

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)

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

Best Used For:

Financial decisions
Business strategies
Career choices
Investment planning
Risk assessment
Legal matters
Technical problems

Heart Decisions (Emotional / Intuitive)

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

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

Integrated Approach:

Best decisions often combine both
Head ensures practicality
Heart ensures alignment with values
Balance creates sustainable choices

Context Matters:

Some situations need more logic
Others need more emotional intelligence
Most benefit from both perspectives

Decision Framework: Best Practice: Use Both

Heart: Initial guidance
Head: Validation and planning
Heart: Final gut check

When to Lean More on Head:

High-risk situations
Financial commitments
Legal matters
Complex problems
Strategic planning

When to Lean More on Heart:

Life purpose decisions
Personal relationships
Career passion
Creative endeavors
Value-based choices

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

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

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

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

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.

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}

Walk Away…

𝓢𝓮𝓵𝓯-𝓬𝓪𝓻𝓮 Walk away from people and situations that cause you pain.

From people who put you down.
Walk away from things that poison your soul.

Think about your inner circle. Are they adding value? Find yourself always feeling sad and down caused by others? Look deeply. Maybe it’s time to walk away.

1. Decide. Then Detach

2. Shift From Thinking to Doing

3. Practice Mental Stillness

COACHING INSIGHT

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1.Start With Emotional Healing

2.Rebuild Self-Worth and Confidence

3.Redefine Purpose and Direction

4.Improve Her Job Search Strategy

5.Stabilize Finances and Environment

6. Build a New Daily Routine

7. Believe in Renewal

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

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Subscribe to continue reading

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Emotional Challenges

Time to Watch

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Leaders Struggle

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1.Clarity is Powerful

2. Patience Enables Progress

3. Individual Strengths Matter

4. Structure Creates Freedom

5. Passion Inspires Performance

Share this:

Transitions Aren’t Detours

Who You Are Becoming is Just as Important as What You’re Doing

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Wrapping it Up

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Common Career Change Fears

1.Financial Uncertainty

2.Identity Loss

3. Skill Gap Anxiety

4.Comfort Zone Resistance

Share this:

Head Decisions (Rational / Logical)

Heart Decisions (Emotional / Intuitive)

Recommendation

Points to Note

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