Every day we have a free, all access pass to the greatest show on earth. Some of us view it from our window, while the rest of us can go for a short walk to capture an unobstructed view. Two shows daily, and no need to RSVP, or order tickets. There is no expectation other than to pause and take notice. The curtain rises in the morning and the sun hits the stage for a breathtaking opening act. What am I…
A country tune came on. I threw my hat on and danced across the kitchen. I imagined what it would be like to be a country singer in a huge stadium with adoring fans singing along. Women would swoon and men would want to be like me. “Wow!” I screamed out loud, “in my next life I am coming back as a country singer!” And then I recalled an innocent time in my life that I thought that would be…
It was one of those magical days that I’ve only experienced a few times before, a hot sunny day in April when the ice on the lake begins to thaw. It lasts for only a short time when something gives and the thick layer of ice turns to slush. It’s the most amazing time to be in a kayak! With every stroke you chip away at what has been still for months and with new life the ripples are…
Looking back at the team building workshops that we’ve designed for our clients, one of the most cost-effective, yet impactful approaches has been with Book Clubs. The simplicity of its structure and the shared learning leads to some pretty impressive results. So how does it work? CREATE A CULTURE OF LEARNING One of the things that high performers tell me is that they want to continue to learn and grow. By setting a deadline in the calendar, reading becomes a priority and as…
May I fill your cup? by Devon Domanski. Recently I had occasion to visit one of my favourite youngsters while he was on the mend at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. I wanted him to know ‘Auntie Devon’ was cheering for him, and do whatever I could to make his parents more comfortable over the weekend. While those were my primary intentions, I almost feel guilty admitting how inspiring the experience was. The staff at the hospital was wonderful –…
Feeling a little shy of my thriftiness, I considered not posting this blog, but the lessons were far too juicy not to share. Blowing in the winter breeze, the balloons above a new shop’s “Now Open” sign lured me inside to see how the store lived up to its promise of everyday consumer products, for only a buck or two. Traversing each aisle thoughtfully, I finally arrived at the register with a basket full of goodies, walking up only to…
Success means something different to us all. For some, it’s money in the bank, while for others it’s measured by the moments that take our breath away! Perhaps it’s moving up the corporate ladder, starting a new business, achieving a physical goal, or hitting a landmark birthday in a state of utter fulfillment. At the end of the day, there’s only one person that can define your success…YOU! So…let’s get started. Take a break from your “TO DO” list and…
I was sitting inside as I started to brainstorm for this post after being cooped up all morning. Since I work from home most days, I have to make an extra effort to schedule in outdoor time to avoid getting cabin-fever at night. Even in winter I find myself braving the cold to clear my mind after a long day, all bundled up like the abdominal snowman. (pause for a few seconds as I head outside) I am now sitting…
I’ve managed people most of my career, and I’ve worked in teams all my life. If you had asked me early in my leadership career what motivates someone at work I would have probably told you either having a good salary or maybe having a spiffy title. And of course who doesn’t think a big bonus is motivating? To effectively lead people, I thought you needed carrots and sticks in the right balance for motivation to work. Somehow in my…
My computer broke: An exercise in patience by Devon Domanski. For so many of us, we rely heavily on technology to keep us connected. Whether it’s a laptop for work, a tablet for personal use, email accounts to communicate, or just having WiFi access, some of us may think, “What the H-E-double hockey sticks would I do if my (insert favourite tech functionality or device) broke?” After having to part with my laptop for 2 weeks while it underwent repairs,…