Where Success and Happiness Meet

Whenever I have time off, I think about the myriad of possibilities in life and work. The options are so great in number and varied in approaches, that they sometimes make my head spin. At times, my choices seem to require either being successful (as I define this – details in another post) or being

Purpose Power

Determined to relax this weekend, I watched the movie, Julie and Julia, last night. Even though I have see this film many times, I was struck by something new. Both Julia Child and Julie Powell were adrift, looking for something to do that was significant and impactful. While making delicious meals and writing about good

Asking for Success

Ever met a person who appears to have it all together and seldom (if ever) needs help from anybody? Surface appearances can be misleading. Beneath a polished and smooth exterior often lies a person who would readily accept assistance and encouragement if it were only offered. If you are one of those “got it together

Soaring Beyond Your Potential

“David has such great promise as an athlete.” “Jodi has enormous potential to be a star in her field.” “Ajay has all the makings to be a wonderful parent.” How does potential become actuality? While those who realize their potential see their strengths, develop them to their fullest, and create what they want in life,

Small Shifts, Big Impact

I used to think that some major “thing” would happen and I would instantly shift from negativity to bliss. At that moment, I believed that I would see beautiful lights and hear choruses of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” My reality is rather different. My shifts happen because of small decisions – to watch or turn

Talent, Presence, and Guts

I spoke to an alum from Chicago Booth on Friday, in the middle of the annual Management Conference. Let me set the stage – sitting across from me is a gutsy, determined, and incredibly capable woman. She was sharing about how she was in a situation at work where needed to stand up for herself

The Power of Authentic Success

Do you have an image of what successful people “should” look and act like? Have you created a persona to show the world how “advanced” you are? To deny the things that drive you a little crazy or make you seem less than perfect also denies your humanity. So, no need to pretend. Acknowledge and

Focus on the Good Stuff for Record Achievement

Life’s too short to waste time on things that you’re not interested in. So, learn to delegate. Start by listing – activities only you can do, activities others could do (but you want to do), activities others could do (but are better done by you), and activities that aren’t good use of your time. Buy

The Roots of Success

I was visiting with a group of friends last night. They are one of the most encouraging group of people I know. The discussion revolved around how giving to others actually leads to greater success and happiness for the giver. This was especially true when the giver didn’t seem to have much to give. Well,

Is Your Life Headed Toward Success and Happiness?

Some people are molded by their admirations, others by their hostilities. Elizabeth Bower So what shapes you? Do you focus on what’s wrong with the world and your life or what works? While it’s entirely up to you how you will build your life, consider the rewards of each approach. Concentrating on the greed, anger,