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.
“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.
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:
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.
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…”
Embrace learning opportunities:
Be open to new ideas and approaches your younger supervisor might introduce.
Show enthusiasm for learning new skills or technologies.
Adapt to communication styles:
Be flexible with communication methods (e.g., instant messaging, video calls).
Understand and respect different communication preferences.
Manage your own biases:
Challenge any preconceived notions you might have about younger managers.
Focus on their skills and leadership qualities rather than age.
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.
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.
Stay current:
Keep up with industry trends and new technologies.
Show initiative in updating your skills.
Practice active listening:
Give full attention to your supervisor’s ideas and directives.
Ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding.
Seek feedback proactively:
Ask for regular performance feedback.
Show willingness to adapt based on constructive criticism.
Find common ground:
Look for shared interests or values beyond work.
Build a relationship based on mutual understanding and respect.
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.
Embrace change:
Be open to new processes or workflows your millennial supervisor might implement.
Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability.
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.
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.
Let no one define what success means to you. Define it for yourself.
Some people are beautiful. Others are just searching. They Maybe sad or even lonely. Don’t hold it against them.
When you’re at the top, stay true to who you are. You’ll see the same people on your way down.
Be cordial. It contributes to your success.
Smile often. It attracts.
Read. It’s an action.
Pray about everything.
Give thanks in all things.
Say thank you.
Stay curious. Ask Questions.
Find a mantra – a quote that drives you to achieve.
Believe that all things are possible because they are.
Get a dog.
Don’t understand something? Ask. You may help someone in the same situation as yourself.
Show up.
Get involved in your community.
Roll up your sleeves and work.
Go to the beach. Be mesmerized by the waves, the sea and its natural beauty.
Look up. Get inspired.
Dream it. Then work it. You’ll achieve it.
Embrace love. It’s beautiful.
Fight for what you want.
Don’t give up too easily.
Be smart. Know when it’s time to let go.
Move on when the time is right.
Try something new.
Get away often. Stress dissipates.
Travel the world.
Try a staycation.
Bask in beautiful memories.
Celebrate other’s success.
Mourn with those who mourn.
Appreciate depth.
Be yourself… always.
You’re never too old to try something new.
Take care of yourself.
Listen to your body. It speaks.
Save for a rainy day.
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.
Pray with others.
Listen to that still small voice.
Don’t let life pass you by. Stop and smell the roses.
Stay engaged. Learn.
Relax. Watch a movie.
Smell the rain. Embrace the sunshine.
Plan a trip with extended family.
Be there for someone who needs you.
Dress up for no reason.
Have dinner by yourself. Experience you.
Surprise a friend.
It’s time. Don’t put it off anymore.
Go for a walk. Ease stress.
Call a parent, grandparent or someone elderly.
Volunteer to help a neighbor.
Go on a solo retreat at least once in your lifetime. You’ll find out a lot about yourself.
Keep your eye on that goal.
Get an accountability partner or a coach if you need help.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Journal your thoughts. It’s great to look back and reflect on how far you have come. Besides, it helps build mental strength.
Keep your mouth shut. Share only what needs to be said.
You can count on me. Can others count on you?
Take accountability for your actions.
Stay focused on your future but don’t become so obsessed that you miss the journey.
Life is what you make it. Make it great.
You win some. You lose some. That’s life. Move on.
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
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.
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.
Wide Adoption: Approximately 86% of companies utilize coaching, and about 70% of these organizations offer coaching to their executives and high-potential employees.
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.
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
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.
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.
Data-Driven Coaching: The incorporation of data analytics and psychometric assessments is helping to provide more tailored and effective coaching interventions.
Diversity and Inclusion: Coaching programs are increasingly addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping leaders to foster inclusive workplace cultures.
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.
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.
Leadership Development Programs: More organizations are integrating executive coaching into broader leadership development programs, recognizing the synergistic benefits.
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.
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.
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!
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.
We’ve all been there. Work we must, yet doing so with difficult people makes it harder. Here’s an Harvard Business Review (HBR) perspective that can help to make it easier in 3 ways:
Leading When The Going Gets Tough
•Reflect on the cause of tension and how you are responding to it
•Work harder to understand the other person’s perspective
•Become a problem solver rather than a critic or competitor.
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.
A delightful conversation with Trevor ”Sosobone” Smith ( LION ) as Maxine Barnett and Dr Shelly Cameron EdD (Org Leadership) discussed results of 2023 30 Under 30 changemakers held June 23, 2023 at the IDB.
An ignite CAribbean initiative envisioned by Dr. Claire A. Nelson A program that has ignited my own passion to continue to lead and drive in Washington DC.
Honorees received gift of coaching to advance their entrepreneurial leadership I initiatives.
Here we share and hope you enjoy the conversation. Thoughts and insights welcomed.
Thanks Melissa Noel and Abby Charles for your powerful charge to our 2023 honorees at the White House
When you don’t know what to say, listen to your heart.
José Micard Teixeira
“When you get tired of something, don’t sweep it out of your life without first understanding why you attracted it, otherwise you can be sure that it will return, even if it is in another form or in another context. When you stop feeling in love with someone, allow them to leave without thinking that a part of you leaves with them. In fact, nothing leaves. What leaves is only what came, now with more knowledge about who it was while it stayed here. When you feel disrespected, take back the power you gave that person over your life. Do not allow disrespect to turn to indifference and find yourself deposed from the place that was rightfully or lovingly yours in the beginning. When you feel uncomfortable somewhere, leave. All the moments you remain there will only contribute to bringing you even more suffering. Leave and if you have nowhere else to go, leave anyway, because at that moment no place is worse than this one for you. When you can’t say what you want to say, write it down. What is written speaks louder and remains longer in time. When you don’t know what to say, listen to your heart. Everything you need to know has always been there waiting for you. And when you think you have nothing to do, look at yourself and see yourself once more. It may be that this time you will understand everything you have forgotten to.”
~ José Micard Teixeira Excerpt from book “Between Many Truths and Some Secrets”
Life changes very quickly in a very positive way if you let it
Lindsey Vonn
The word “Very” is often overused, articulated Tina O’Rourke in a public writers forum. Personally. as an author you may feel the same way. Here’s s list of replacement words you can adapt instead.
