When I’m working long hours on a pitch or presentation, I always welcome a few mental breaks to keep me focused. For some people, pausing during their workday to play a game is just the diversion they need to help them stay on task. Games can be a great way to improve your mood, clear…
It’s been said that hard times reveal true character. I think we can all relate right now: In times as uncertain as these, we have two choices: to complain and throw in the towel…or adjust our mindset to find new opportunities for growth, development and happiness. It’s a choice. Now more than ever, that strength-of-mindset…
As humans we have an innate desire to feel understood. Showing empathy is one way to make that connection. More than compassion, when we genuinely empathize with someone—or seek to truly understand their emotions, experiences and perspectives—we create a powerful sense of trust. Empathy is a life skill. It’s important for personal development. By broadening…
There’s still a lot of uncertainty out there. As some states slowly roll into return-to-normal operations, we’re all watching closely to see how they fare. But the reality is, no matter when local restrictions are lifted, most of us will return to our offices to face the same dilemma: How to navigate the new business…
Most of us would agree that pure talent doesn’t always win: The smartest kid in class doesn’t necessarily grow up to be the most successful in business. The athlete with incredible natural ability might not make the big play in a pressure situation. The sales rep with perfectly polished presentation skills might not be the…
Life is full of challenges. Most of us have faced adversity at some point in our lives. And while some of us show strength and resolve during tough times, others melt under the pressure. How do you handle difficult times in your life? The way you respond—and the resulting outcome—is within your control. Based on…
Change is good. And it’s also inevitable. At some point, we’ll all experience some degree of change in our personal and professional lives. But, managing those transitions is something that some of us seem to be better at than others. As a person who has weathered a few transitional storms, here’s what I can share:…
I was recently asked a great interview question: If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why? My answer: “I Wish I Hadn’t Said That.” Because, sometimes…I wish I hadn’t said that. Do you ever wish you could take back something you’ve said? Or get the chance for…
There is tremendous power in self-reflection. I’ve found that implementing the practice as part of an annual performance review can be incredibly insightful and productive. Our assessment challenges individuals to not only take stock of their personal performance and best practices, but also to look at their performance through the lens of their customers and co-workers.…
A few years ago, I sat in on a client meeting with one of our sales reps who was meeting with a previous customer to reestablish a connection (and ideally, earn back her business). While I mostly sat back and listened, I did ask the client this question: Can you give me an example of…
