When it comes to behavior change, did you know that asking questions could be more influential than making statements? Did you know that posing questions in a way that invites a “Yes” or “No” response can more effectively encourage the desired behavior than a declarative statement? The results of a 40-year research study conducted by […]

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“Sleep is important for learning new information.” So says a study published in the journal Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. Researchers tested subjects’ ability to recall information under two sets of conditions – limited sleep and a full eight hours. Results indicate we remember more when we’re well rested. The findings, they say, apply to […]

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In professional and social settings, being able to recognize a person’s face, recall their name and pronounce it correctly, is an asset. Some people use their formal name over the commonly associated nickname – like Bill for William or Peggy for Margaret. Listen to how others introduce themselves – the name they use and how […]

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Thanksgiving initiates a season of celebration that lasts for nearly five weeks. For so many of us, a festive air prevails that permeates life, even in the workplace. We enjoy celebratory lunches and dinners with colleagues and friends. We laugh and dance the night away at the company holiday party. Bring in savory treats to […]

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Thanksgiving is a one of my favorite holidays! It calls my attention to the bounty of blessings I enjoy every day…and don’t always acknowledge. Whatever our circumstances, no matter how privileged or challenging life may be, too often, we give too much energy and attention to what’s wrong, what’s lacking, what’s worrisome. In so doing, […]

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Consider the people around you – those at home and at work. You have a story about each of them. They have one about you. These static stories seldom change, unless we challenge them by intentionally expanding our thinking. Two steps are involved. 1. Acknowledge you don’t have a complete, accurate picture. 2. Consciously open […]

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What makes a difference in the moment-to-moment quality of your life, at work and at home?   Having a sense of purpose. An inspiring mission or sense of calling. As human beings, we need something to believe in, something that feels like a higher calling. Something that adds meaning to our existence. To be more engaged, […]

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How do you feel about work?   More specifically, your particular job? A recent study found that people who are emotionally attached to their work and identify with it enjoy a greater sense of psychological wellbeing. That’s meaningful to employees and employers. You’re motivated to do a better job when you identify with your work. You […]

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Perfectionism hinders the success and peace of mind of many people. If you’re a perfectionist, here are several points to consider. They may enable you to free yourself from the controlling grip of this menace. First, realize that perfection is an Illusion. It’s one of the LIES That Limit. As humans, we make mistakes. Perfection […]

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I enjoy ads and commercials. The good ones stick with me. I’m impacted by their images, sounds and words. The best ones have a dramatic tagline or slogan – a succinct, repeatable core message about the product or service that conveys the essence of what the company wants you to believe and remember. They’re designed […]

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With summer essentially behind us, and fourth quarter well underway, now is a good time to review your 2015 goals. Begin by noting progress to date, and then determine what’s required to achieve success by year-end. Be brutally honest with yourself as you conduct your review. Assess your current degree of commitment to achieving the […]

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When it comes to making things happen, talking, complaining, blaming, finger pointing, won’t move the needle in the right direction. In your workplace and personal life you can enhance your impact and make more of a difference, for yourself and others, by using a strategy that guarantees success – be more personally accountable: Suggest solutions […]

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Crying can be an indicator of pain, a call for attention, comfort or support, an expression of intense emotion. Crying can also be a way of relieving pressure, letting go of held emotions. Traditionally, crying in the workplace has been taboo, largely due to the long-held belief that tears make you appear weak, vulnerable, emotional, […]

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  Call me old-fashioned, but I like receiving a response when I communicate, unless I say, “No need to reply.” And, from a number of recent conversations, I know I’m not the only one with a preference for closing the communication loop. So, if I call you, please call me back. If I text you, […]

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  Every day opportunity knocks. Do you recognize it, allow it in and leverage the moment? Or, do you let the door close and, later, walk away thinking, “I wish I had said or done something.” Take advantage of the breaks that come your way. Pry open those windows that are slightly ajar. For example, […]

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    I tweeted a quote @SpiritOfPurpose that got attention. People re-tweeted it and saved it as a favorite. The tweet was a Chinese proverb that says, “Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are.” I don’t know what about the quote appealed to those who retweeted it or tagged […]

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    Let’s say something pleasurable happens in your life – you make an outstanding presentation, offer up a good idea that gets noticed, take a great vacation, have an incredibly delicious meal, see a beautiful sunset. Are you able to hold on to the good feelings the experience generates? Or do your positive emotions […]

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    “Happiness is in the heart, not in the circumstances.” I found that quote inside the wrapper of a miniature Dove Caramel & Milk Chocolate candy. I read it once, and then again, “Happiness is in the heart, not in the circumstances.” So true. Think about it. Those who are happy show up that […]

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    Once again, research affirms what we know about the benefits of spending time in natural settings. Exposure to green trees, grass, bushes, and flowers, as well as blue spaces – those with still or running water –renews and refreshes us, helps us feel more connected to life. To add nature’s beneficial greens and […]

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During the 2015 Wimbledon finals, I saw an interview with Serena Williams, at this point in her career, the holder of an historic 21 grand slam titles. Her record is amazing. Only one person, Steffi Graf, has more. Steffi ended her stellar career with 22. Serena lives in rarified air. Literally, she’s at the top […]

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