We tell ourselves powerful lies to justify staying stuck: We white-knuckle our way through relationships that drain us, careers that suffocate us slowly, and credentials that lead nowhere—all because a younger version of ourselves made commitments we feel obligated to honor. That younger self decided who we should be, what we should want, and where … Learn More
Last year, my colleague Tracy and I were driving to our Detroit “Take the Lead” conference when we paused a Tim Ferriss podcast featuring Elizabeth Gilbert. She said something that stopped us cold: she had “no cherished outcome” for their conversation—no expectations, just gratitude to be there. We looked at each other, recognizing the wisdom … Learn More
When tensions rise over disagreement, my first instinct kicks in like clockwork: I want to flee. Yep, in the fight, flight, or freeze—I’m definitely a flighter. The moment disagreement surfaces, every fiber of my being screams “tap out.” Exit the conversation. Avoid the discomfort. Find the nearest emotional escape route. And sometimes, I do exactly … Learn More
I spend a considerable amount of time developing my happiness habit “stack,” which includes: While these practices have made a meaningful difference in my life, they don’t always prevent a funk. Admittingly, I’m a pretty positive, happy person … but I’m also human. I get frustrated, I get sad, and I certainty experience worry, concern. And when … Learn More
My friend has a pretty big title. She’s worked hard throughout her career to earn a President’s role in a large energy company. I’ve known her long enough to know that there are parts of the role she loves, and others she tolerates. Regarding the latter, she hates networking. Hates it. She hates getting invited … Learn More
“Come on guys, this sucks … but we’re all in this together.” I’m sure many managers are using this refrain right now. I call it motivation misery. Here’s the catch: misery isn’t motivating. There are plenty of ways to communicate to those around you that “we’re in this together” without having to remind people of the negative … Learn More
We know we need to network. Many of us cringe at the idea of walking into a room full of strangers and making small talk, though. I get it. I grew up painfully shy. I used to hide behind my mom’s knees whenever adults would talk to me. I’ve obviously gotten better at this, but it’s taken … Learn More
There are days when we don’t feel as lucky as others: When we feel down on our luck, it’s easy to simmer in our own misery and misfortune, believing that the world is conspiring against us. I can guarantee that if you want to feel depressed, hopeless, and discouraged, the world will give you evidence … Learn More
If you haven’t figured it out yet, I like to do life experiments … on myself. I tinker with my diet, my sleep, my wellness. Prolon? Tried it. AG-1. I’m on it. Meditation, hot yoga … yeah, I do all that stuff just to see what I need to do to get clear, to get … Learn More
The way I see it, I’ve got three options: – Resign to the goal, even though my team can’t achieve it – Fight the goal, knowing I’m going to p*ss off my boss … but maybe I change it – Quit because I’m … Learn More
I had a pretty crappy day last week. I know, right? That doesn’t sound like me – the eternal optimist. Even so, it happened. A personal situation percolated and sent me sideways. Following that event, all I wanted to do was sit on the couch, bury my head in a bag of potato chips, and insert a wine IV into … Learn More
