Level Up: Stay the Course with Courage-Fueled Growth 

Person walking up stairs going in each direction

We’ve all felt it—that inner nudge to level up in life or professionally. It’s that undeniable pull to step into a bigger, bolder version of ourselves, leaving behind what no longer serves us. Maybe you’re craving more purpose in your career, or perhaps you want to create a lifestyle that aligns with your deeper values. 

But when the time comes to make the leap, one thing is clear: leveling up takes courage. It’s not just about change; it’s about having the bravery to face the unknown and embrace who you’re becoming.

So, how do you know you’re leveling up? How do you handle the reactions of others when they try to hold you back? And how can you stay the course when the going gets tough? Let’s explore this journey together and uncover how courage is the key to unlocking your next level.

To listen to this month’s blog, click here.

 Signs You’re Leveling Up

One of the first signs you’re leveling up is a shift in perspective. The things that once excited or satisfied you no longer do. You start yearning for more—a more fulfilling career, richer relationships, or simply more meaning in your day-to-day life. This inner stirring is a signal that you’re ready for growth.

Another key sign is discomfort. Growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone, and leveling up often brings feelings of unease, anxiety, or even fear. But here’s the thing—discomfort is a good sign. It means you’re stretching beyond your limits and stepping into new possibilities. It can mean that what you are doing or how you think no longer aligns with what you are feeling inside. The sometimes subtle sense of misalignment is an inner signal to help you become aware you can welcome the changes that are naturally occurring. 

 You’ll also notice that new opportunities, people, and ideas start showing up when you least expect them. Whether it’s a job offer, a chance to develop a skill, or meeting someone who inspires you, these synchronicities are the universe’s way of saying, “You’re ready.”

Courage’s Role in Leveling Up

Leveling up requires courage because change often means facing the unknown and letting go of what feels familiar. Stepping into your next level can be scary—there’s no roadmap, and the outcome isn’t guaranteed. But courage is what keeps you moving forward, even when you’re unsure of what’s ahead.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s acting despite the fear. It’s saying yes to new possibilities, even when you’re nervous about leaving your comfort zone. It’s about trusting that the discomfort is temporary, and what’s waiting for you on the other side is worth the risk. The courage to level up comes from believing in your potential and knowing that you’re capable of so much more than where you are right now.

 

The Courage to level up isn’t the absence of fear; it’s acting despite the fear

 

Others Might React to Your Growth

Here’s where it gets tricky: not everyone will be happy about your decision to level up. The truth is, your growth can make other people uncomfortable. Why? Because when you change, it forces them to confront their own lives and choices. If you’re leveling up, they may feel left behind or challenged to face their own fears of growth.

You might hear comments like, “You’ve changed,” or “Why are you doing that? You were fine before.” These statements can sting, especially when they come from those closest to you. But remember, their discomfort isn’t about you—it’s about them. People may try to pull you back to where they feel comfortable, but that’s not where you belong. Not to worry – Most of these relationships will adapt. The most important thing is to honor what’s happening in you and go with that authenticity. Everything else will fall into place and be right in the long run.

Stay on Course 

When leveling up, there will be moments of doubt. You’ll be tempted to go back to what’s familiar, especially when others are questioning your path. But here’s the thing: going backward is never the answer. So how do you stay the course when things get tough?

  1. Revisit Your Why – Why did you decide to level up in the first place? What’s driving you? When the road gets bumpy, remind yourself of your deeper purpose. Whether it’s to find more fulfillment, make a greater impact, or achieve a dream you’ve been putting off, your “why” is your anchor.
  2. Lean Into Courage – When fear or doubt creeps in, take a deep breath and lean into courage. Remember that every successful person has faced obstacles and moments of uncertainty. Courage will carry you through. Help yourself by coming up with a short statement or mantra if you will, to repeat to yourself in these times, as much as you need to – like “Yes I can.”
  3. Build a Support System – Surround yourself with people who support your growth and vision. Whether it’s a mentor, a coach, or friends who are also leveling up, having a solid support system can help you stay strong when others try to hold you back. This can make all the difference.
  4. Set Boundaries – As you grow, it’s important to set boundaries with those who may be unsupportive or even unintentionally sabotaging your efforts. You don’t have to cut them out of your life, but you do need to protect your energy and focus on your path.
  5. Celebrate Small Wins – Progress can feel slow at times, but every small step forward is definitely worth celebrating. Acknowledge the wins, no matter how small, and use them as fuel to keep going.

Journal Prompts: Reflect on Your Leveling Up Journey

  1. What is calling me to level up, and what excites me most about this new chapter?
  1. What fears do I have about stepping into this next level, and how can I summon the courage to face them?
  1. Who in my life might struggle with my growth, and how can I set healthy boundaries to protect my journey?
  1. What small victories have I achieved so far, and how can I celebrate them to stay motivated?

You Have the Courage to Level Up—and You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Embrace leveling up . It can take a little bravery. It’s about stepping into the unknown, confronting your fears, and staying true to your growth, even when others don’t understand. But the rewards are worth every bit of discomfort and doubt. You’re becoming the person you’re meant to be—stronger, wiser, more fulfilled.

If you’re finding yourself at a crossroads, unsure of how to navigate the tension between your old self and the new one waiting to emerge, know that you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to support you. As someone who has walked this path with others, I can help you stay the course, even when it feels challenging.

Reach out today if you’re ready to step into your next level and need guidance on how to make it happen. Together, we’ll turn your courage into a powerful force for growth and transformation!

Courage to Overcome: A Personal Journey to Success

Courage isn’t always about grand gestures or heroic acts. Sometimes, it’s about the courage to overcome – stepping up to face personal fears and challenges. For Chris Heywood—a seasoned personal trainer, mother of five, grandmother of eight, and great-grandmother of two—courage has been a guiding force throughout her life. From childhood dreams of performing in front of an audience to overcoming academic struggles as an adult, Chris’s journey illustrates the power of perseverance in the face of fear. As Chris puts it, courage is about attempting something that scares you, and her life is a testament to the rewards of pushing through those fears.

To listen to Doris’ interview with Chris, click here.

Facing the Music Built Confidence

Chris’s first real test of courage came when she was just 12 years old. Playing guitar and writing her own songs, she was invited to perform at a coffeehouse in the 1960s. Overcome with fear and uncertainty, Chris was nervous about how the audience would react. She recalls shaking as she began to play, but then something shifted. And the crowd cheered her on. Their acceptance gave her the confidence to keep going, and what started as a shaky performance turned into a personal victory.

For Chris, this experience solidified an important lesson: courage isn’t about the absence of fear; it’s about moving through it. This moment showed her that even when we feel vulnerable, we can rise stronger than we imagined.

Academic Struggles Overcome

Chris’s courage was tested again later in life when she pursued her career as a personal trainer. Despite her extensive knowledge, Chris didn’t pass the certification exam on her first attempt. This failure triggered old insecurities from her school years and reignited her fear of academic failure. At that moment, she thought about giving up.

But Chris was determined not to let fear define her path. She studied hard, faced her fears head-on, and retook the three-hour test, this time passing with flying colors. That victory launched a career she has cherished for over 30 years. Chris’s persistence serves as a powerful reminder that failure is not the end—it’s often a stepping stone toward success.

Fear Embraced as a Path to Growth

Throughout her life, Chris has shown that the courage to overcome means confronting the fear of failure and using it as a catalyst for growth. From surmounting stage fright as a young performer to passing a difficult certification exam, her journey exemplifies how facing fears can lead to profound personal and professional transformations. Courage and persistence go hand in hand, and Chris’s success is proof of this.

 

Courage isn’t about eliminating fear—it’s about moving forward despite it.

 

Journal Prompts: Courageously Face Your Fears:

  1. Reflect on a time when you faced a fear or challenge head-on. What emotions did you experience before, during, and after the event?
  2. Think about a time when you almost gave up on a goal. What motivated you to keep going, and what lessons did you learn from that experience?
  3. Are there areas in your life where fear is holding you back from pursuing your goals? How might you confront that fear?

Take the Next Step in Your Own Journey

If you’re looking to embrace more courage in your life—whether by pursuing a long-held goal, overcoming personal fears, or stepping into new opportunities— contact me.    

Chris Heywood’s story is a powerful reminder that the courage to overcome is a choice we make every day. Whether it’s performing on stage, passing a difficult test, or tackling any personal fear, courage transforms challenges into growth opportunities. The next time you face a fear that holds you back, think of Chris’s journey and take a step forward. Courage isn’t about eliminating fear—it’s about moving forward despite it.

Explore more of my reflections on courage including Courage is a Mindset, Fueled by Love: Unexpectedly Finding Your Courage and Courage During Uncertainty: A Journey of Resilience and Transformation, Courage as a Catalyst for Personal and Professional Change and  The Duality of Courage: Knowing When to Act and When Not to.   

Join my newsletter for regular insights and resources on how to live courageously, and start leading with confidence today.

 

Courage as a Catalyst for Personal and Professional Change

Courage as a catalyst for personal and professional change resides in the quiet moments of decision-making when we face the unknown, dive into uncertainty, and go beyond what seems possible. It is a subtler, more profound aspect of courage that often goes unnoticed. This form of courage does not always come with fanfare; instead, it is deeply personal and often transformative.

Insights on Courage and Uncertainty

This month’s reflection on courage features Marcus Sheffer, a collaborator with 7group, which specializes in commercial green building projects, organizational development, and sustainability programs. With more than 35 years of experience, Marcus has consulted on hundreds of green building initiatives, including some of the greenest projects in the world.

For Marcus, courage isn’t just about bold, fearless acts. It’s about the willingness to step into uncertainty, make difficult choices, and stay committed to a path even when the outcome is unclear. In our everyday lives, courage often shows up as the quiet determination to grow, change, and release beliefs or identities that no longer serve us.

To listen to Doris’ interview with Marcus, click here.

Understanding Privilege and Courage

When asked to define courage, Marcus was immediately struck by how infrequently he thought about it—perhaps, he reflected, because his life as a white male meant he didn’t have to call upon it as often as others. He sees courage as intricately tied to privilege, opening up deeper questions about how we perceive and practice courage. True courage, in his view, involves diving into uncertainty and doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult, uncomfortable, or unclear.

Making Promises Beyond Your Abilities

Marcus describes courage as the willingness to make promises to ourselves that we’re unsure we can fulfill. It’s about moving forward into the unknown, committing to something bigger than our current capabilities. This kind of courage requires us to believe in potential beyond what we can see or plan for, trusting that the act of making the promise itself can open new doors. In his experience, personal transformation happens when we step into uncertainty and push beyond our perceived limits.

Courage in Personal Decisions

One of Marcus’ most personal experiences with courage came when he decided to end his 36-year marriage. It wasn’t an easy decision, but he recognized that staying in the marriage was causing him harm, despite his long-held belief in loyalty and commitment. This decision forced him to face uncertainty—leaving behind the home he had built with his family, grieving the loss of what had once been central to his life, and letting go of the identity he had created for himself. This defining moment of courage allowed Marcus to acknowledge that what once seemed best no longer served his well-being, and it took bravery to step into a future filled with unknowns.

Reflecting on Courage and Personal Growth

  1. Reflect on a time when you had to summon courage to face an uncertain situation. How did this experience transform you?
  2. Consider a situation where you were unsure of the outcome. How did you navigate through it, and what did you learn about yourself in the process?
  3. Think about any beliefs or stories you tell yourself that might be limiting your growth. What would it take for you to loosen your grip on these beliefs and step into the unknown?
  4. Identify areas in your life where taking a courageous step could lead to significant personal growth or change. Where do you see the potential for transformation through courage?

Courage is the ability to dive into uncertainty and make promises to yourself beyond what you believe you’re capable of.

 

The Next Step: Leaning into Courage for Transformation

Marcus’ insights remind us that courage is not always about heroic acts or grand gestures. Often, it’s found in the quiet moments when we choose to step into uncertainty, commit to a difficult decision, or let go of long-held beliefs. Courage is about making promises beyond what we think we’re capable of and embracing the journey that unfolds as a result. It’s about recognizing when it’s time to grow, change, and evolve—even when the path is unclear.

The next step is simple but powerful: consider the areas in your life where you’re holding back, and make a promise to yourself to move forward, even if it feels uncertain. Courage doesn’t require us to have all the answers—it simply asks that we say yes to the possibility of something greater.

 Take Action: Support Your Courageous Journey

If you’d like support to move forward with courage, contact me, and let’s talk!  For more reflections on courage read,  Courage is a Mindset, Fueled by Love: Unexpectedly Finding Your Courage and Courage During Uncertainty: A Journey of Resilience and Transformation.  

 

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Courage During Uncertainty: A Journey of Resilience and Transformation

Courage is often seen as a grand, heroic act, but in reality, it manifests in the small, everyday decisions we make, especially when faced with uncertainty. This is particularly true when we step into the unknown, challenge society’s expectations, or commit to work that seeks to create a more inclusive world. The concept of courage becomes even more nuanced and profound when intertwined with life transitions, cultural shifts, and the ongoing pursuit of equity.

This month’s blog features Shilpa Pherwani, CEO of Ibis Consulting Group.  Since 1999, Shilpa has partnered with powerful companies and universities from around the world as they run Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) assessments, develop strategic action plans, and deliver creative solutions in an ever-changing DEI landscape. Shilpa’s experience as an immigrant from India, which has guided her to value what she brings to the community rather than assimilate to a dominant culture, is a cornerstone that she has impressed upon her own children as well as in her business life. 

To listen to Doris’ interview with Shilpa, click here

Courage in the Face of Uncertainty

Shilpa shares that courage can be defined as the ability to move forward despite the unknowns, to face risks without the certainty of outcomes. It’s about how we manage the everyday uncertainties that life throws our way and how comfortable we are with taking small, calculated risks. Seen this way, it extends beyond physical bravery to include the mental and emotional strength required to navigate the unpredictability of life.

Forging Your Own Path

Going against the grain of society’s expectations also takes courage. Shilpa grew up in India in a family where education was a privilege but also came with the expectation of pursuing a career in medicine or engineering. Neither option felt right for Shilpa, so she explored various fields before settling on a master’s in social psychology. Choosing a different path in that cultural set up took significant personal bravery.

A Personal Journey: From India to the United States

But perhaps the most striking demonstration of courage was her decision to move to the United States. This represented a leap into the vast unknown, filled with uncertainties about the future. Such a transition required adaptability, resilience, and the courage to embrace a new perspective on life – one that blended different cultures and backgrounds.

Courage to Work in DEI

For over two decades, Shilpa’s work in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has been a testament to sustained courage. This field, especially in recent years, has seen its share of challenges, including backlash and polarized narratives. Yet, her commitment to creating a safe, inclusive space where people can engage in uncomfortable but necessary dialogues remains unwavering and rewarding.

Believing in the impact of DEI work, despite the ups and downs, requires courage. It’s about holding onto the vision that equity is not about taking something away from one group to give to another, but about ensuring equal opportunities for all. Staying true to this vision, even when faced with opposition, is a profound act of courage.

 

“Equity is not about taking away but ensuring equal opportunity for all.” 

 

Reflections on Courage During Uncertainty and Risk

  1. In what ways has society’s expectations influenced your life choices?  How have you demonstrated courage in challenging them?
  2. Reflect on a time when you felt afraid to move forward. What steps did you take to overcome that fear?  What role did courage play in your journey?
  3. When dealing with adversity, what practices or strategies help you remain resilient? How do these contribute to your sense of courage?
  4. Describe a moment when you had to advocate for something you believed in, even if it wasn’t popular. What was the outcome, and how did it affect your confidence?

Courage is not a singular act but a series of choices we make, especially when faced with the unknown. It’s about embracing uncertainty, challenging expectations, and staying committed to work that matters. Whether it’s through personal decisions or professional commitments, courage during uncertainty is the thread that weaves through our lives, shaping our journey and our impact on the world.

If you’d like to explore these questions or any others and want to do so in a safe, confidential way, that’s what I do best. Contact me, and let’s talk!

 This continues the series on Courage that started in July. Given the uncertainty of the current times, I have decided to continue the courage series through the end of the year.   Read the first,  Courage is a Mindset, and the second, Fueled by Love: Unexpectedly Finding Your Courage.  Join my newsletter so you won’t miss the upcoming postings. I send it monthly, and include that month’s blog post, resources to fill your own well, and more!

Fueled by Love: Unexpectedly Finding Your Courage

Welcome back to my summer series on courage, where we dive a little deeper into the ways everyday courage shapes our lives. 

This month I’m sharing insights from Pam Pacilli Cooper, president of Verissima Productions, an award-winning media company that has produced over seventy films and books for individuals, families, and nonprofits, as well as documentaries for public broadcast. She uses her experience as a family systems therapist, researcher, and oral historian to create stories that will benefit future generations. She and her partner, Rob Cooper, are celebrating their twenty-fifth year in business.  

To listen to Doris’ interview with Pam, click here

Pam, a dear friend and colleague, has always been a source of inspiration. For the past couple of years, we meet occasionally to have ‘hallway chats’ — discussions revolving around rethinking our practices, exploring creative interests, and contributing to the world as we transition into the next stages of our lives. These conversations have nudged us towards courageous steps in our personal and professional journeys.

Courage Fueled by Love

In her interview, Pam shares a beautiful insight: Courage isn’t always about grand heroic acts; it’s about being present during the tough moments in everyday life. It’s about being there, fully present, because your love for the person fuels your courage. Pam’s perspective on courage is both profound and relatable, reminding us that true bravery often appears in the most unexpected situations.  

Reflect on Everyday Courage

To help you explore this aspect of courage, here are some journaling prompts. If journaling isn’t your thing, use these prompts to think on. Dedicate a run, swim, or walk to each, or discuss them with a friend. 

  1. When have you had to step up, even when you didn’t want to, because you were dedicated to a person or a cause?
  2. Has there been a time you’ve stayed the course with an open heart, even if someone wasn’t on the same page as you? How did you handle it? Did you create a bridge or allow for that gap without letting it stop you from connecting? How?
  3. What did you learn from those experiences about yourself? Take time to think about this. Write down a few experiences on one side of the page and leave room for what you learned on the other side. Let this sit with you and return to the page over the next day or two as thoughts arise. 
  4. What do you need to give yourself credit for that you haven’t? Do you notice any resistance within you to do so? Write about why that might be. Do you encourage others but find it hard to do so for yourself? Remember, if you have love in your heart, you are as deserving of it as others are!

Courage is Staying the Course

Sometimes, we don’t realize how we’re managing difficult situations because we’re just in it, putting one foot in front of the other. It’s only later, with some distance, that we can look back and say, “Wow, I did it!” There’s no perfect way to handle tough times; the point is that you stick with it. Acknowledge yourself for your strength and everyday courage. 

It’s not just okay to do so; it’s life-affirming and essential.

 

“Courage is a long road that’s often not a one-time thing.” — Pam Pacilli-Cooper

 

If you’d like to explore these questions or any others that come up, and want to do so in a safe, confidential way, that’s what I do best. Contact me, and let’s talk!

This is part of a series on Courage that started in July. Read the first,  Courage is a Mindset, and come back for the third in my series of three next month! Join my newsletter so you won’t miss it! I send it monthly, and include that month’s blog post, resources to fill your own well, and more!

Courage is a Mindset: Trust Yourself

Man sitting in Barber shop chair

To listen to this month’s blog, click here.

As a Courage Coach, I tune into the many ways courage shows up around me. I am open, aware, and listening—not just with my clients, but as I go about my day. I’ve learned that everyone has wisdom to share, no matter their background or walk of life. Every person has a story, a unique perspective, and a piece of wisdom to impart.

Inspired by this realization, I decided to start a series on Courage. Over the next three months, I will introduce you to three different individuals, each with their own inspiring and thought-provoking take on courage. They will share how they perceive courage, how they have used it, and how it has transformed their lives for the better. My hope is that their stories will spark your curiosity, get you thinking, and, at best, inspire you to embrace courage in your own life.

In addition to these interviews, I will pair each story with journaling prompts. Even if you don’t journal, these can serve as topics for meditation or meaningful conversations with a trusted friend.

This month, we start with Andrew Hajian, known as Drew, the owner of Impeccable Barber Co., a trusted community barber shop in Norwood, MA. Founded in 2013, Impeccable Barber Co. is a place where you can relax, connect, and receive high-quality service that makes you look and feel your best. I recently visited Drew, and we had an amazing discussion about courage.

To listen to Doris’ interview with Drew, click here.

In our conversation, Drew shared his journey of leaving the corporate world to become a barber and eventually opening his own shop. This leap required a significant shift in mindset, trusting his instincts, and believing in his abilities. His story resonated with me, reminding me of my own big leap when I decided to leave the corporation I was working at to pursue a new direction. At the time, I wasn’t 100% sure of my path, but I trusted the inner signs that told me I needed to make a change. And with each step I took, the next step became clearer.

Reflective Questions

I encourage you to journal, think about or talk to someone about whatever thoughts or questions come up naturally for you. Here are some options to get you started. If any speak to you, use them. 

  • What is your definition of courage?
  • Can you think of a few times—or even one—where you demonstrated it?
  • When have you taken a leap? Is there another leap you’re waiting to take?
  • What is something lurking at the edges you’ve been trying to muster up the courage to do?
  • When was the last time you asked yourself, “What do I want?”
  • What kind of mindset do you need to get started?

You might think—or others may say—that you’re crazy or taking a risk. Weigh the risks and rewards, and unless the risks are off the charts, trust your instincts. You may feel afraid, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it! Think through what you need to do to get it done.

The Key to Courage

The key is to believe in yourself, your judgment, and your abilities to make it work. Follow your instincts and listen to your inner compass—that voice from within. Tuning into this natural guidance may take courage, but trust that it will never lead you astray.

Your mindset will help you gain clarity on the specific steps you need to take. What needs to be done will flow from there. If you try to plan before you have the mindset—the decision, the trust in your direction, and the belief—it’s like putting the cart before the horse.

Fear is a reaction, Courage is a decision –Sir Winston Churchill

Courage is a mindset, answering the call, taking that first step, and trusting that the path will unfold as you move forward. Embrace the mindset of courage, and let it guide you toward living your best life.

What is your inner compass telling you? Can you tune in to that voice, separate from all the other influences, and find that one unique call that is your own?  I deeply believe you know the way. And I would like to help you find it, and walk it.  Let’s talk. 

 

Save Time with More Effective Meetings

Art-Colorful-Paper-collage

Meetings. Most of us think they take too much time, but we do have to have them.  Let’s look at how you can save time by making meetings more effective.

In a month that’s the gateway to a string of holidays (and the cooking, relatives, parties, travel, relatives, parties, fundraisers, shopping, wrapping, and gifting that comes with it), there’s no better time than now to prioritize what really needs to get done and what can be cut away, then communicate that clearly to your staff.

Whether you have attended or run them, meeting formats can become like driving – so second nature sometimes you may not even remember how you got from point A to B!

Time is money but time is also precious to YOU… and staff morale. If you waste employees time on less significant matters, unclear purpose or action items, or allowing the discussion to meander off-topic, you can incur a triple loss, affecting their motivation which affects productivity, which then affects the results!

With fresh eyes, let’s review  meeting building blocks for ways you may be able to make your meetings more productive:

  • Only invite people that need to be included
  • Show up on time
  • Eliminate distractions: ie: Don’t put food out or play music hoping to make people happy at the start.
  • Minimize time lost to tech glitches by setting visual presentations or conference calls in advance. Test if you can beforehand. And know who to call in if you need tech help
  • Have not only a short agenda, but jot down down points you want to make and any people you want to recognize- then stick to that focus
  • Open with the objective of the meeting.
  • Whomever leads the meeting, set up another person to steer it back if you tend to get off track
  • When something of value warrants further discussion, suggest the key people  continue offline (and report back if needed).
  • Make sure your people know you are listening. Be present, rather than thinking of the next point. Make and hold eye contact with those contributing.  Online look right into the camera, use body language to show you’re with them.
  • Ask: “What will you need to accomplish that?” or “Who can help with this?”
  • Close with a clear summary of what’s action steps or what was achieved
  • Have good notes taken to share right after with all attendees, or in less than 24 hours. Make sure they are streamlined: key items, bulleted with clean font – anything to encourage review, and ask for feedback where relevant

Bottom line, the best tip for how to save time with more effective meetings, is about how YOU prepare! Not only will they take less time – including follow up, repeating info, minimizing glitches caused by misunderstanding (because someone fell asleep in the meeting), your staff will be happier, and more productive, and all of that will save time and money in the long run!

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And when you do, you can download a FREE BONUS related to this topic: 5 Ways to Make Time Today!

 

Find Opportunity in Transition

Find Opportunity in Transition

Change is happening globally, and that’s changing each of us. But there is a way to find opportunities in transition. 

According to CNN, a record number of people quit their jobs in 2021… 68.9 million of them!  And a whopping 47.4 million of those transitions were voluntary. 

Whether you are thinking of leaving your current position or have already left (by choice or involuntarily), there are things to wade through in the transition. Change is a constant, and we need to address what’s going on inside us in order to move through these times wisely, and make authentic decisions. 

Think about how much we tie our identities to what we do, how many hours of our lives we spend at work and what the money earned or benefits allow us to do. Changes to that can bring up a lot of questions, concerns and emotions. Add a global pandemic, and all the recent news. It’s a call to evolve, and therein lies the opportunity in transition. Let’s take a look at how.

WHAT DRIVES YOU

There’s a trend in meaningfulness now – in work and your life. While we all expect to handle a reasonable level of undesirable tasks, people and situations, it’s begun to not be okay to just tolerate everything for the sake of the job anymore. Now, our drivers are shifting toward needing more purpose and fullness from our work. If this is coming up for you, are you struggling to give yourself permission to want that – or even require it?  

Motivators used to be about getting a better office, working longer hours to be recognized, or dealing with a terrible boss or a sabotaging coworker for a new title or bonus. Now we may ask ourselves very different questions like: how is work helping me be better? Can my strengths really shine here? Can this role help me make a contribution? And if I am to continue where I am, how can what I do at work matter more to me?

The answers are found in your values, how you spend your precious time, and getting clear on your priorities. The need to unpack this paradigm shift has become so prevalent, I’ve covered each in my recent blog posts. Transitions can be empowering but CHANGE is something many are not that comfortable with. Yet change is the only certainty in life. So you have some rich resources here within my blog to start with. 

Let’s look at some of the subtler feelings to address: 

DOUBT 

Whether you lost your job, are transitioning to a new one (or are thinking about it), or want to build a side hustle that could become full time, you may begin to doubt your abilities. Ask yourself if there is any legitimacy to that. Would you need to acquire new skills, and are they within reach? Are you financially able to make the leap?  If you had to move, are you the kind of person who adapts well? What strengths do you have that could carry you? Doubt can present legitimate concerns, and those can be addressed. But when doubt is dancing with your fears, take note. This is where it can really help to talk with someone to gain outside perspective. 

FEAR

Even the most confident person will have deeper thoughts about what they’re doing. “Is it too risky?” “Could I fail?” “What if I lose my health care?”  Depending on your situation, the specifics could be many, but what’s underneath it all is fear.. Addressing those questions are useful, even practical. 

Not leaving what you knew can feel safer as a devil-you-know situation.

But if your desire to leave is greater, trust that. Respect your fears rather than shove them down. They are there to help you – not to paralyze you! Get your fears out of your head and onto paper. Once you see them on a page, they become much more manageable. And it’s easier to see there  are practical ways to address each, one by one. Do this and they shouldn’t keep you up anymore!

GRIEF

Yes grief. It may not be so obvious, but there can be subtle ways grief surfaces. Again, it’s there to be honored, and worked through, because doing so will free you. Ignoring it down will not. If you feel this, you’re not alone;  it’s common when you leave a job. What can help is figuring out whether you identify with your actual occupation or with the organization you work at. If it’s the latter, you may want to see if you can work in a different sector of your company rather than depart.  

REGRET

Another thing that will help you make decisions is a regret test. Picture where you’re at, all you’re feeling and what you’d like to do. Now flash forward to an age you consider to be old. Think of how you’d feel near the end of your time to accomplish things in life if you hadn’t made the change you’re considering. Would you regret it?

Racking focus this way helps eliminate some of the nagging questions and concerns in the present, or will at least put them in perspective. 

COURAGE

Find Opportunity in Transition

All these feelings and concerns give you an opportunity to learn something new about yourself. It actually serves you to be willing to look at them, and then equally realize what strengths, skills and way of thinking you can employ to balance them. Courage is the willingness to do this honestly. 

Sometimes it’s a lot easier to process these when you have someone neutral to talk it through with, who has the training and insight to help with your best interests in mind. 

My work is to partner with you to empower yourself where fears and doubt once were. Contact me and we can talk  about reaping the rewards and wisdom available as you navigate the way forward.

The Key to Great Leadership Is Courage

Superhero Team with Capes Graphic

The key to great leadership is courage, especially now, in these times of uncertainty and change.  

When you think of having courage – what’s the first image that comes to mind? A superhero in the power stance, cape flowing? A mother fighting for her child’s welfare? A person putting themselves at risk to save someone else? How about facing an employee — or a board — to navigate a difficult issue… or truly listening when your team’s opinions are different than yours? They all require courage. Because courage comes in many shapes and forms. 

The pandemic has advanced this to a whole new level. It led to creating new practices and policy on the fly, new needs to work around like childcare, health care and a host of distractions and emotions. 

Now more than ever, courage is needed in leadership. Let’s look at five specific kinds of that courage. 

1. Leadership Courage

There are business goals, deadlines and budgets to meet, using daily processes and systems, while striving for exceptional client and market communications. Add that those have to be accomplished while managing people’s new needs, losing some to layoffs or FOMO, handling unexpected losses (or profits) that are way off projections, almost all of it juggled via a virtual environment. Leadership courage is navigating those waters while communicating clear expectations, trusting enough to delegate, holding people accountable, and working with any performance issues so they can rise to their potential. It also means letting someone go (even if they are brilliant) because it’s mucking with company culture. Courage is doing what is right for business, morale and harmony, even if it may be tough to do.

2. Social Courage 

This is about what you uniquely bring to the table, being brave enough to understand the power of your authentic voice, and knowing when to express it – and when not to.   What you have to offer may be a risk to put out there but the upside is it could be a game changer! Social courage is not just being bold, but the art of knowing when and how to go there. Done with a mixture of confidence and openness to feedback, the value you bring will stand out. 

3. Intellectual Courage

There is a lot of reward in this brand of courage, which presents as being open minded to others ideas, as well as thinking ourselves out of our own boxes. Here we step out of our comfort zone, healthfully question, work with others, and even become willing to blunder in service of solutions!  It can be tough to do when there is such pressure to be the hero or always right, but the truly heroic path is open discourse for the greater good, regardless of differences. Intellectual courage wins respect and creates trust and safety. 

4. Moral Courage

Your integrity is the fuel for this kind of courage. It’s about the ability to do what’s right, even when it may produce pushback or judgement.  To say what you mean, and more importantly, act on what you know in your gut is gratifying and lights the way for others to do the same. The world needs it now too. If your work aligns with your inner compass, values and ethics, you will have a true and fulfilling sense of purpose which serves the highest and best of all involved. Win/win. 

5. Emotional Courage

This year has honed our emotional courage, even if we didn’t realize it. Overnight we were forced to tolerate total upheaval and the unknown — and take the next steps anyway, no matter what we may be feeling. Those emotions are utilized as we go. We need this courage because the landscape of our lives, especially at work, are not returning to what it was. It takes courage to adopt new practices, sort and make the best of the feelings it brings up and dive back in.  Even if you put everything into it and experience some failures or end up with a different outcome than you had planned, you have not lost — you have led by example. 

The key to great leadership is courage

When leaders make a conscious effort to identify which types of courage they are good at and which they need to build, they not only grow more at ease and empowered in their role but become an invaluable contributor to every individual, team, client and company they interact with.  

As you read over these types of courage ask yourself: Which do I already do well? What stood out to polish as I strive to lead others? 

Once you find what you resonate with, it’s about how you’ll step up. If you want to discuss these forms of courage, or working with them to make your leadership shine, I am more than happy to help. Let’s connect! 

Becoming aware of these kinds of courage will create a shift in your perspective. You may find yourself operating a little (or a lot) differently with both challenges and people. The benefits you will see in time will confirm that you indeed have that essential courage.

And you won’t even need a cape!

How To Listen To Your Gut

How To Listen To Your Gut

We’ve all heard the phrase ‘It takes guts’ or have been asked: ‘‘What does your gut tell you?” But do you know how to listen to your gut? What is the gut exactly? How do you distinguish what messages come from your gut vs. your mind? If you have ever felt pings from your body at key moments, or had a strong feeling about a situation or person, you have been utilizing signals from what experts are now calling Gut Intelligence (GQ).

"Every single person has Gut Intelligence—intuition. It’s innate, and is just about whether we tap into it or not."

We know of our IQ: our intelligence, education, and training. We rely on it, and put a lot of effort into improving it, in ourselves and in our children. In the last two decades,  value has been placed on our Emotional Intelligence (EQ) — the ability to empathize or understand the needs of others. EQ, (or Heart Intelligence) has begun to reach beyond the obvious social rewards to its application in business, with clients and our audience. 

Today there is much scientific evidence emerging that we have a third “brain,” stemming from the gut, or the enteric nervous system… and it is being called Gut Intelligence (GQ). 

In literal terms, your gut is the pathway from your esophagus through your digestive system, but did you know that it’s got more neurons to fire communications through your body than your brain has?  Besides it’s important work in your digestive system, it is also your inner alarm system – the place your fight or flight triggers come from!  While the brain is busy being distracted by all kinds of data, in a dangerous situation, the gut kicks in. It processes information far faster, releasing signals through the body to the brain, all focused on protecting you!

Jay Pasricha, M.D., director at Johns Hopkins Center for Neurogastroenterology, said in a recent post, “The enteric nervous system doesn’t seem capable of thought as we know it, but it communicates back and forth with our big brain—with profound results.” In a word, it’s instinct. We’ve evolved out of primal days when we needed those skills to stay alive, except for extreme circumstances in modern life like avoiding a car accident. Yet those signals are still in top working order and can now be incredibly empowering to you in your work life. 

Being gutsy has positive connotations, but hints that it’s the quality of a maverick, not the average person. The truth is, every single person has Gut Intelligence. It’s innate, and is just about whether we tap into it or or not. 

It can be hard for those in leadership to put much faith in their intuitive instincts over stats, trends, and deadlines. But it’s as viable a skill as any other you’ve honed. One that out pictures as courage, and can heighten the success of any endeavor, professional or personal. You won’t abandon your data, systems, or protocols by adding your intuition… you enhance it! 

We know those times we’ve ignored our body’s hints and clues. So if your gut  senses and communicates critical things your head may not, how can you become aware of that and trust it? And how do you know when to use your instinct or just note it and wait?

If you want to learn how to listen to your gut and develop trust in your judgement calls, I’m here to help. Let’s talk!

This is the second of a three part series on Intelligence. Read the first, The Role of Heart Intelligence in Leadership, and bookmark this blog to return for the third installation next month!  Even better, sign up to my newsletter for my latest blog posts, inspiring hand-picked resources, and to be the first to hear of my upcoming workshops and coaching opportunities.