Tag: SUCCESS

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!

    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.

    Ahh Coaching: Trouble The Comfortable

    The interesting thing about coaching is that you have to trouble the comfortable and comfort the troubled.

    Ric Charlesworth

    Professional development involves coaching. It is a process of self-awareness, application and reflection. Improving yourself through learning and training has advantages. Just as great sportsmen hire coaches, professionals can improve their craft with a personalized and objective coach.

    That said, people’s perceptions of coaching necessity vary and there are myths, but there is a growing recognition of its value in professional development.

    1. General perception: There’s been an increasing trend towards viewing coaching as valuable, particularly in corporate settings. However, it’s not universally seen as “necessary.”
    2. Executive coaching: A survey by the International Coach Federation (ICF) found that about 86% of organizations saw a return on investment from coaching. This suggests a high perceived value among those who have experienced it.
    3. Leadership coaching: Many large companies now include coaching as part of leadership development programs, indicating its perceived importance.
    4. Career coaching: The demand for career coaching has grown, especially with the rapid changes in the job market and increased career transitions.
    5. Percentage who think it’s necessary: It’s challenging to give an exact percentage as perceptions vary widely across industries, cultures, and individual experiences. However, here are some relevant statistics:
      • A study by the Harvard Business Review found that 48% of CEOs who had coaching said they were open to changing their behavior as a result.
      • According to a report by PwC, 50% of firms surveyed used coaching as a key part of their learning and development programs.

    These numbers suggest that while coaching is increasingly valued, it’s not universally seen as “necessary” by everyone. The perception tends to be more positive among those who have experienced coaching or work in organizations that regularly use coaching services.

    It is important to note that these figures can change over time and may vary significantly depending on the specific context (e.g., industry, individuals, company size).

    So there you have it. Different perceptions of coaching and it’s necessity. Many understand and appreciate its value. Are you one of them? What’s your own perspective? Do share. We would love to hear.

    Cheers!

    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.

    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!

    12 Common Financial Problems Women Face

    Women and Challenges Faced

    At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.

    Frida Kahlo

    Women often face unique financial challenges due to various societal, economic, and cultural factors. Lots of changes on the horizon albeit slow. Here are some common financial problems that women frequently encounter:

    1. Gender pay gap: On average, women earn less than men for comparable work, which affects their overall financial health.
    2. Career interruptions: Women are more likely to take time off work for caregiving responsibilities (children or elderly parents), impacting their earning potential and career advancement.
    3. Longer life expectancy: Women generally live longer than men, requiring more savings for retirement and potentially facing years of managing finances alone.
    4. Lower lifetime earnings: Due to pay gaps and career interruptions, women often accumulate less wealth over their lifetimes.
    5. Underrepresentation in high-paying fields: Women are often underrepresented in STEM and other high-paying industries.
    6. Financial literacy: There’s often a gap in financial education and confidence in managing complex financial matters.
    7. Divorce financial impact: Women may face significant financial challenges following divorce, especially if they were not the primary earner.
    8. Single parenthood: Single mothers often face additional financial strain managing household expenses on a single income.
    9. Investment gap: Women tend to invest less and more conservatively than men, potentially leading to lower long-term wealth accumulation.
    10. Healthcare costs: Women typically have higher healthcare expenses over their lifetime, including reproductive health costs.
    11. Debt: Women, on average, carry more student loan debt and may take longer to pay it off due to lower earnings.
    12. Entrepreneurship challenges: Women-owned businesses often face greater difficulties in securing funding and investments.

    Can you align with one, two or a few? Any challenges missing that you can add? Please share. We would love to hear.

    Cheers!

    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!

    Travel with Intent

    A photographer's view of the world - words and images to inspire your travels and your dreams

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    In this blog I'm attempting to answer wordpress daily prompts

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    Property Maintenance

    Poesy Perspectives

    embrace the magic

    GREENLiGHT

    When God Says Go

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    Mind • Body • Life

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    Knowing every thing

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    Your Focus. Our Lens.