Unlikely “Mentors”

When I think of the word “mentor”, a knowledgeable, supportive, and influential “guide” comes to mind. Yet, I have some of my most important teachers “disguised” as unpleasant people and situations. At first, I let them make me feel doubtful, insecure, and even hopeless. Yet in the end, I thanked them within my heart. I

The Power of Being Restless

Earlier this year, I was more than a bit antsy. You and I could analyze this forever and come up with a myriad of reasons. I am not so sure that the cause of my restlessness is so important. What is crucial is what I did and do with it.  I took a step back

You Can Solve It

Have you ever presented a problem to someone – at home, work, or in your community and then been told  – “okay, go solve it.” You might even be stunned by the response,  as you were not expecting to do anything more than share the issue. While the idea of creating a solution can feel

Give Something

Giving can take a lot out of you. Who had the time, and besides – what’s in it for me? Okay, I know you’re a good, caring, and generous person, but it’s super easy to want something in return – especially when you have to take that time and effort from something else you might

Take a Break – PLEASE

I used to think that making unscheduled time for myself (aka vacation) wasn’t a good thing. Don’t ask me why. Perhaps it was my father’s behavior. He didn’t take more than a day or two off at a time until he had more than a few heart attacks. I actually went through a period where

When You Encourage Someone, You Benefit, Too

I was chatting with a friend, who is a talented, innovative, and fiercely determined individual. She and a partner launched a company a few years ago and they are working to raise a seed round of funding. This is no easy feat – yet they have what it takes. They have weathered the pandemic (which

Celebrate Your Wins

I used to be the type of person who only valued and celebrated big things and discounted the rest. This led to big gaps between my happy  dances and more than a little discouragement.  One of my friends took a different approach, which actually seemed silly to me. She celebrated everything, starts, completions, and even

Your Words Carry Weight

Have you ever noticed that people will take action based on something you say? This is especially true if you are a perceived expert in something: from parenting to the metaverse.  While this is a wonderful thing, you also have a responsibility to the people with whom you interact. No need to walk on eggshells,

A Competition Like No Other

I will admit it: I have been known to be more than a little competitive. I think part of it is the family I grew up in and the other part is wanting to prove my value. Whatever the reason, competition can be a good thing when I compete with myself, more than with others.

What’s Your Word?

When you think about your life, goals, and aspirations, what word or words come to mind that motivate you to keep advancing? For me, two words came to mind at the very beginning of 2020 that have persisted in my mind and heart. These are “appreciation bold”.  You may wonder why I chose those two