It's Time to Prioritize Your Time

 "Time is nature's way of keeping everything from happening at once."
~ John Archibald Wheeler

How is it that it seems like some people "get" more hours in their day when others seem to barely have 20 hours each 24 on the clock?

While we all have the same 1,440 minutes until a new day dawns, each of us doesn't utilize them intentionally and productively.

Here are 10 ways to maximize the time you have versus longing to get more minutes in your day:

 1. Have a morning routine (and an evening one, too) for setting up your da for success.

 2. Know life’s timing and know your relationship w/the clock so that you can make it an "I get to go to..." versus "I have to go to...".

 3. Create a list of "to be accomplished, then eliminate those lists nearly immediately by scheduling all tasks as outcomes in the calendar as you ensure you have buffers between meetings and engagements.

 4. Prioritize your actions and outcomes & ask priority of anyone giving you tasks, delegation, or other assignments with clear boundaries on the deliverables.

 5. Start early in your day & complete what you consider the worst task first so you don't dread it later and inadvertently delay getting to it.

 6. Stop the expressions of being “swamped”, “stressed”, “slammed”, “crazy”, and replace them with thoughts of being "fully scheduled" and "Gratefully booked".

 7. Say “no” or “no, thank you” to invitations that are not opportunities & resist “busy-ness” that takes time and makes no progress on what you have prioritized.

 8. Time chunk in 15 or 20-minute increments, and think about an hour being 4 or 3 of those chunks, respectively & own your time (not hope for it) with short meetings (45 minutes for hour sessions and 20 minutes for 1/2 hour sessions)

 9. Focus on 1 thing (no multi-tasking) at a time, as switch-tasking takes more energy than you even imagine, and if someone wants to interrupt you politely say "If you give me 5 minutes, I'll give you 100% of my focus.

 10. Create organizing systems (mental & physical) that work for you so that you are not stressed rather you are systematized for what serves you best.

Time is not something you can buy or produce, rather time is something you want to manage so you can lead your life fully!

#DoYourBest #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #Growth

Public Speaking Tip - InterACTion

 A good teacher, like a good entertainer, first must hold his audience's attention, then he can teach his lesson. 

~ John Henrik Clarke

Have you ever felt like someone was talking over you in a presentation, looking past you or above your head? Some public speaking tips encourage that, and it seems nuts, as we, the audience members, can tell when a speaker is not engaged with the audience at all, so don't be that public speaker.

The parts for which to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include the following, and this month, the focus is on the 4th:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

The last months covered the OPEN, the PREVIEW, and the BODY , yet the INTERACTION is where true connection happens, and that is done through ACTing in these ways:

A - Asking questions of the audience, listening to replies, and not making anyone feel they failed. If you ask a question, be prepared to rephrase it in three ways before you answer it yourself. Do not be impatient, or it will seem like you are stressed or uncomfortable. You have thought of things and the audience is just joining in, so give them time to engage.

C - Creating various tones and timing in order to engage the interests of the audience since we follow sound and motion. Speaking in louder or hushed tones to tell a story or to emphasize information gets people intrigued by your thoughtful creativity.

T - Talking with, and throughout the entire room, meaning walk around, stop, sit, and ensure people know you are available and will be near them in some way throughout the talk. If you are using projection, black the screen at times to refocus the group, for if there is nothing on the screen, they are only interacting with you, and that creates a connection.

By the way, the interaction starts long before you begin talking. Meet people, shake their hands, and be available while sincerely interested. People who meet you and connect want you to succeed, whereas, sadly, those who see you as a stranger often look for your errors or missteps. You want the audience to gain from your being there, so give to them before, during, and after your public speaking opportunity!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

This Month's Article: Building Trust

"Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters."
~ Albert Einstein

"Trust me!"

How many times have you either heard that or said that to someone else?

While those words are short and simple, the act of fully engaging in trust is long and complicated...yet it can be achieved!

Trust is defined as the ability to state what will be done, commit to a time to complete it, and then, deliver to that agreement. And, trust is lacking when people are iffy, distant, non-committal, and/or do not do what they say they'd do when they said they'd get it done. 

When there is low trust, you have slow speed and high costs. still, when you have high trust, you work in a world of rapid speed and low cost. According to JSA, LLC, the keys trust issues stem from baggage, personalities, culture, and myths. My take on on addressing them include remembering:

• Baggage–people have other experiences
• Personalities–consider DiSC and EI
• Culture–no threats, gossip, badmouthing
• Myths–what hasn’t been addressed?

Keeping all of this in mind, trust is about communication AND respect , and since open communication builds trusting relationships, then you can appreciate that lack of communication creates doubt and concern.

It's important to build trust internally with sharing things such as planned days off, getting agreement, how performance management is communicated, and it is important to build trust externally by checking in on others, getting agreement, and aligning what success looks like for all involved.

While building trust takes time, trust is lost in an instant, and rebuilding trust takes far longer, if ever to regain, so If you think you don’t have time to explain something fully or check in with someone, then when will have time to undo the damages from something being done incorrectly and/or them not having faith in you? If it hasn't been clear, a huge part of trust is TRUSTING YOURSELF! So, do trust:

• That you are capable
• That is is okay to ask for assistance
• That if your heart/head/gut tell you there's a problem, do inquire and/or act on it

Some trust DOs and DON'Ts are:

• DO meet w/the team when you ahve any new additions, don't simply let people figure it out
• DO use people's names, don't use "hey" or "dude"
• DO check in on other's impressions, don't rest on your laurels or figue your past repuration is enough
• DO ask, listen, and honor how people like to receive communication and be coached, don't assume or only share the way you like to receive communication or be coached
• DO admit mistakes, don't blame others
• DO be humble, don't be bossy or cocky
• DO lead people and manage process, don't attempt to manage people and lead process
• DO say “I don’t know, and I'll get back to you by TIME/DATE", don't guess or attempt to bluff your way through
• DO ask "What, if anything have I said or done or not said or done that is keeping us from fully engaging", don't be defensive when you hear feedback, even if it sounds like criticism
• DO start over with people by asking for a fresh start, don't keep trying to win over people by ignoring past situations
• DO communicate (especially when money is involved) directly, don't ignore or hope things will simply pass

By being sincere and earnest in your effort, knowing you are not perfect, and that neither are others, you can establish trust and then build on that foundation!

#DoYourBest #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #Growth

Public Speaking Tip: Delivering the BODY

Since you know the 4 keys to presentation prowess include being an expert, putting the audience first, getting out of your own way, and coming from a place of gratitude, the body is where you get to share your expertise fully, and that is the topic of this July Public Speaking tip.

It's still true that the parts for which to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

The last months covered the OPEN, and the PREVIEW, it is the BODY where you get to fully share the information for the audience that they want and deserve, and in the order you previewed it. In the BODY, please 

B - Be prepared with slides, handouts or examples that engage the audience

O - Offer opportunities for the audience to respond, ask and fully experience your information and connection

D - Do have logic, pictures or stories to support an orderly approach to walking through a large topic with 2, 3 or 4 agenda points (too few is too broad and 5 or more makes for discomfort for the audience thinking the talk will be rushed)

Y - Yield to the 80% rule(s), meaning, prepare for 80% of the time allotted, know that the audience only rises to about 80% (max) of your energy, so you are not to feed off them, rather than serve it up to them kindly and sincerely

These actions will make for a prepared and thoughtful approach to keep you all involved, and with the BODY in order, you can be present for everyone present! Other aspects of the public speaking prowess we are embracing includes INTERACTION  (and that will be the topic for next month's tip)!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Moving Through...

My attitude has always been, if you fall flat on your face, at least you're moving forward. All you have to do is get back up and try again. 
~ Richard Branson

A while back, a LUNDBERGism shared was all about letting go versus moving through, and how there is no such thing as Elsa's FROZEN approach, and that song, while catchy, is a fantasy.

We do not simply "let it go", and suggesting people, or yourself, do that, simply let it go, is not only wishful, it is nearly impossible. 

How so? Here's a more thorough explanation for your consideration:

The ideal universe where everything is dismissable is something that lives in our imagination, yet our hearts and minds know that the reality is that of thoroughly moving through a relationship, experience, thrill, or disappointment.

Easier said than done, though, is moving through what is happening, conceptually and experientially.

It's tempting to simply say "I don't care" or "Who cares?", and act as though something has been let go, the reality of moving through includes:

1) Experiencing and feeling what is happening, and owning those doubts and beliefs

2) Processing what has occurred either is or is not what was anticipated, and what some of the outcomes may be

3) Realizing you have choices to vet and consider in how you respond, not react to what is at hand (which may involve sharing with a trusted confidant, and definitely is not about telling "everyone who will listen or taking to social media immediately)

4) Implementing the steps that will serve you best for your peace of mind, reputation, and footing for the future

These may all combine to look and feel like four steps for when something failed, and yet they really are also good for celebrating with gratitude and confidence rather than blowing it out and looking cocky or insensitive, too. We don't often want to "let it go" when we win something, and still there are times when you want to move past a label or client association, solely, and be a broader offering or business, so that is when the success side of moving through a situation or relationship comes into play.

Regardless of how catchy that song Idina Menzel song, and all the awards "Let It Go" is, here we are...and the cold truth of moving through can, in fact, become something that indeed "never bothered you anyway"!!!

Previewing Your Content Post-Open

"I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enough to know that life is a complex matter."

~ Walt Disney

People are distracted. You, as the speaker, are the leader. Remember to keep energy, stay in control, honor the audience, and set the stage!

The parts for which to prepare your talk, training, or pitch include:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

Last month started with the OPEN, and now it is time for the PREVIEW.

The PREVIEW sets the stage for what is going to happen. It is the opportunity to:

P - Present the agenda

R - Reveal the ways to engage

E - Engage the purpose

V - Verify the time frame

I - Include others in the direction

E - Elevate the energy

W - Welcome changes, if the direction is to be tweaked

This is quick, and sounds something like this:

In the next 30 minutes, the purpose of our time together is for you to gain insights into public speaking prowess, and that will be done through the following three topics: Engaging your audience, Preparing your talk, and Delivering with impact. This is for you, about you, and you are welcome to jump in, take photos, take a break, and make the most of it all. Is there anything missed in setting the stage?"

With the PREVIEW in order, the direction will be clear and the level of engagement will be high. Expectations will be set with agreement, and then you move to the BODY (and that will be the topic for next month's tip)!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Taking Action Thoughtfully

Stop the habit of wishful thinking and start the habit of thoughtful wishes.
~ Mary Martin

There are times when something is said or done, or not said or done, when/where you are surprised, disappointed, or flat shocked, and then there are times when everything, and everyone, flows so smoothly that it is as though a script had been written with perfect direction.

While the latter may be appealing and seemingly ideal, it is also le also less likely, so what to do when there is an oddity, peculiarity, simple oversight, awkwardness, or outright rudeness occurring?

Even though emotions may be piqued in you, implore your thoughtfulness whenever you feel that cringe of "yikes" or "oops", or even "oh my!"! By checking in to cover the following, you will know when and how to address the situations:

1) Is everyone safe? Safety has to come first. If anything is unsafe, immediately engage in creating safety, taking away anything or anyone unsafe, and getting assistance as soon as possible.

2) Is this an appropriate place for me? Am I a part of this, or am I an observer? If I am an observer, and there is safety at stake, it goes back to #1, and you get engaged, even if that means stepping away to call for the right enforcement. If you are involved, and if things are getting loud, resist telling people to "calm down", or "settle down", as that often irritates people further, rather, think about saying something like "Because you both care a lot about this TOPIC, and we are not in a place for discussion, let's please move over here" or "Since you both make passionate points, would you consider stepping into the office to talk more about this?"

3) Can I add to the resolution or am going to stoke the fire? If you can add to the resolution with a calm tone and reasonable request or suggestion, super, then say something like "Respecting I am jumping in here, would you both consider..." or "Since I may be right or wrong here, is it possible that you could ..." or "Considering I am just coming up on this, is there something I can do to assist, or is everything moving in a good direction now?", and if you would likely be stoking the flame, take a breath to redirect to assisting instead of inflaming those involved. If you are not able to get there, get out, as you are not going to assist with strong comments or antagonizing others.

Keep in mind that at no point is saying something like "Shut up", "Just stop it" or "You are embarrassing me/yourselves" is likely going to tame tempers. Instead, offering calmly and quietly "You are both likely aware that this is not the time or place for this" or "You each have your reasons, and it's reasonable for all of us to take this elsewhere for now, wouldn't you agree?"

Passions run high. Beliefs beget barking ideas sometimes. Let a little play out, and keep those three considerations in mind with kids, adults, colleagues, sports fans, and any human happenings not to keep people from expressing themselves, but rather to keep people from hurting themselves and others.

When you keep the human aspect of confrontations in mind, you can remember that some times go beautifully, and others are far from it, the humane thing is to thoughtfully pay attention and be willing to be a part of getting things (and people) cooled off with nobody feeling rejected or dismissed!

#DoYourBest #Life #Living #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #Action

Owning YOUR OPENing Connection

Our team has always believed that neither cost and distance should ever prevent people from connecting with their friends and loved ones, and won't rest until everyone, everywhere is empowered with that opportunity.

~ Jan Koum

Like a specific dance, a score of music, or plays for a sports team, people can learn the standard moves, or improvise, but regardless of the venue, regularly following the steps in the planned order proves to be the most favorable approach. The same is true for presenting powerfully.

The parts for which to prepare in your talk, training, or pitch include:

1. Open

2. Preview

3. Body

4. Interaction

5. Summary

6. Close

The rest of the year, we will address these parts (and one more tips, too). This month, let's start with the OPEN!

Because how you begin is often how it flows, and how it flows is how it goes, and how it goes is how it concludes, the way you start your public speaking or presentation comments really matters!

While some call this a variety of words or phrases, I call it the OPEN, and this is absolutely NOT "I am so excited to be here" or "I had a hard time thinking of what I'd talk about today", or "I am so nervous to be here", as that is all about you, and not the audience, and it is about your experience, and not theirs!

Instead, think of the OPEN as a way to:

O - Offer energy and insights into your style

P - Participate WITH the audience, not talk AT them

E - Engage in thought and action

N - Navigate to the space and commitment you are grateful to get

In order to have something in your opening that is relevant to the audience and topic you can also tie it back into the close for continuity and professionalism. Options for ways to open after you have greeted/thanked/acknowledged the audience, include:

• A visual on the screen or music playing

• An activity that involves the entire audience

• An activity that involves only a few in the audience

• A statistic, study or fact presented directly or in a fun way

• A joke (if you are using intentional humor, and you are funny)

• A short story (which could involve humor or not)

When you start with something listed above, you get people introduced to your style, and they are quickly part of the experience, and not simply taking in you or your data! The OPEN will lead you to the PREVIEW, which we will cover next month.

So, open strong, and continue with strength for the audience, and about the audience, and watch your talk soar!

#publicspeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND

Word Choices for Engaging with Examples

"Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind."

~ Rudyard Kipling

With so many of us focused on how we feel, rightly so, and so many organizations wanting to have a culture and environment of safe creativity and personal and professional growth, many words and phrases are coming into the workplace in meetings, on Zoom, and Teams that may feel appropriate, yet lead to others being uncomfortable.

What to do?

Please lead by example by replacing words/expressions that can be emotionally triggering with these words and phrases that will still honor what is happening while keeping the energy focused on what is at hand:

"I don't like this" becomes "Because this is not a good fit for our client, let's pass on this idea." This example is about choosing what is best for the clients and not the emotional reaction to the person's idea shared.

"Nobody is supporting me in my work" becomes "Since I would like to collaborate with others, who is willing to work with me, please?". This tweak makes it less about accusing someone else or blaming others and more about a request for help.

"You need to calm down" becomes "Since your passion is clear, if you will please slow down and share, we will likely be able to follow well". This change removes judgment from someone's emotions while encouraging a change for a different outcome.

There are numerous examples that could also be added. Suffice it to say the point of these adjustments is to be empathetic without criticism and considerate without coddling. Additionally, when people approach you about others' words and/or actions, insist that it is best to not judge or assess emotions, rather to have an open dialogue about work, projects, deadlines, and expectations without prejudice or a hidden agenda. Emotions impact us and Emotional Intelligence will guide us through to positive results and real relationships!

#DoYourBest #Life #Living #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #Action

Public Speaking: Owning YOUR Introduction

My mother took great relish in introducing me as 'This is my son - he's a doctor but not the kind that helps people.'
~ Randy Pausch

Introductions should be brief. If you are a presenter, or you are introducing a speaker, please do not read the person’s biography. Refuse to do it. Embrace simplicity or abandon the formal introduction fully. 

Believe it or not, an engaging introduction can be an important part of a powerful presentation. And, a bad introduction is often a sad start for a presenter who has to first recover from the introduction and second has to attempt to engage an audience after that recovery. 

An effective introduction should be REAL, meaning the introducer simply, and only covers the: 

~Reason for the talk/presentation/training. Welcome people, and let them know what the topic is. 

~Examples of the importance of the topic. State 2-4 reasons someone will want to listen to the presentation. 

~Acknowledgement of the speaker’s credentials and name. Share 2-4 relevant facts about the speaker that will enhance the presenter’s credibility and pique the audience’s interest. Clearly and confidently state the name of the speaker/presenter last, with a pause between the last comment and the first name and a quick pause between the presenter’s first and last name. 

~Leading the applause. As soon as you finish the presenter’s name to the audience (which is done while facing the audience. 

You then turn to face the presenter as you start to applaud loudly and rapidly to indicate others can follow (and they will!). 

An example of “keeping it REAL” for an effective introduction is: 

Welcome to the Presenting Powerfully workshop (R)! 

It is important we learn to present confidently and professionally, gain tips and tools for connecting with the audience, and that we get our messages across effectively (E). 

Our speaker comes to us as an 11-time published author, performance coach, etiquette columnist for Tampa Bay Business & Wealth Magazine, and a member of the National Speakers Association. Please welcome your expert on presentation prowess, Debbie Lundberg (A). 

Applaud immediately (L)

Don't "Try It", Do Your Best!

Success has a simple formula: do your best, and people may like it.
- Sam Ewing

Yoda famously "Do or do not. There is no try" in the Star Wars franchise during the 1980 movie The Empire Strikes Back when Yoda trains Luke Skywalker in the ways of the Jedi and urges him to take action rather than simply attempting something with a half-hearted effort.

We loved it in that show, and yet it seems to have landed and been left there...

Some people say "I'll try", and others say "Let's give it that old college try" when something new is proposed to them for action.

What do you think when you hear that? 

Perhaps you think they will give some effort, and that is likely what will happen...they will "try".

Trying is our way of protecting ourselves from failure. If we try and it doesn't go well, then the thought is 'oh well, at least I tried!'

Instead, if you hear someone say "I'll do my best", or "Let's give it our best" when put in a position to participate, what does that evoke? Likely you think, and feel the energy they are going to bring - their highest effort and interest - their best!

So when you consider an effort, either say yes or no to doing your best. Stop thinking 'should I try this?'. Your time and focus are worth more than a try, they deserve, and you deserve, your best.

If "try" is in your verbiage, language and outlook in other contexts, you can shift from "Give it a try" to "Give it a chance, and instead of 'Maybe - I'll try' can become "No, thank you, and if something changes, I'll let you know and change my reply".

Similarly, and often personally, when changing a habit, instead of uttering "I am trying to cut out sugar", rephrase to "Because I want to feel my best, I am in the process of eliminating sugar." This statement shares a continuum for success versus a slight effort.

Moving from the comfort, or perceived comfort of trying, and moving to doing your best allows you to celebrate your successes and learn from those efforts that don't hit the mark. Then, instead of trying and failing, you know you did your best, and you want more time or other people, or that it is not a match for you. You can move forward with intention instead of looking back with indifference.

So, let's agree - no more trying, let's get doing, and, let's do our best!!

#DoYourBest #Life #Living #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #Action

Public Speaking Prowess Mindset

 "Fear paralyzes you - fear of flying, fear of the future, fear of leaving a rubbish marriage, fear of public speaking, or whatever it is."

~ Annie Lennox

One of the most important things in life, relationships, toasts, and in any industry is to remind yourself that your mindset in public speaking, as in every area of accomplishment, matters.

Keep in mind, front and center, that you’re speaking publicly often, and that it is not about a "speech" or something contrived, rather it is about communicating to connect, and ultimately demonstrate expertise and confidence through the spoken word. 

When you know this, and believe it, as it is developing relationships, it tends to alleviate a lot of that classroom perspective of “oh my gosh, I have to give a speech now” that unfortunately lingers with a lot of people when they aren’t familiar with how often public speaking, and even simple, effective communication, is a part of their daily successful exchanges.

For a Public Speaking Prowess mindset, think connection, not speech-giving, engaging, not overwhelming, and audience, not you, and your mind will guide your heart, and therefore, your effectiveness in front of a group of 1, 10, hundreds or more!

#PublicSpeaking #presenting #PresentingIdeas

Enjoying a PEACe of You!

 

"Peace comes from within.

Do not seek it without."

~ Buddha

Regardless of how much sleep you get or stress you feel, you have an opportunity each day, many times a day, to get and feel peace.

Being high energy and low stress is something I have worked on consciously for years, and now it is a peaceful place for me.

Peace can be calm and quiet for some, and peace can be energizing and reverberating for others.

Whatever peace is and means for you, please consider it as a reachable goal and feeling you not only can experience, you deserve to have...not simply by chance, rather by change...changing your approach.

Here are four approaches to getting to PEACe:

P - Presence - Only say yes to what you want to do, and when you do those things, be fully "there". The present tense is more than a verb form, it is a state of mind. Peace is part of your mindset first, and experience, second.

E - Engagement - Once you are present, fully, you can engage with the experience and the people around you. This relates to peace in that there is knowledge and growth, reassurance, and joy that comes from engaging.

A - Accept - Be willing to embrace that things will not be perfect. Perfection is the enemy of peace. While perfection can be appealing, peace is about accepting and appreciating what is happening and who you have in your life.

C - Calm - Presence is about the state of mind, and calm in this approach is about calming your fears and doubts through appreciating and acknowledging YOU and who you are as well as what you bring to the table. When you quell those negative thoughts, many other aspects of your life come into focus with a calm anticipation, too.

And, when you have presence, engagement, acceptance, and calm, you can fully experience:

e - enjoyment - Having peace means that you can enjoy mistakes for the learning, wins for the journey, and success for the accomplishment. The PEACe approach is about your perspective, and therefore your own way to enjoy life!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #PEACe #peaceful

Preparation Prior to Your Talk

"There are certain things in which mediocrity is not to be endured, such as poetry, music, painting, public speaking."

~ Jean de la Bruyere

When getting the opportunity (yes, it is an opportunity, not a "have to") to speak, remember that the moments you have the chance to share are short in comparison to the time and energy spent prepping.

While there will be tips this year on how to put together the materials and what slides to have, this tip is on preparing yourself through:

• Engaging in Emotional Intelligence and imagining what the audience will be thinking and feeling, and focusing on connecting there
• Create your presentation with your expertise driving your desire to meet the audience where they are and take them somewhere new or deeper than where they already are in regard to the topic
• Practice what you have put together by reviewing it sitting down and truly rehearsing standing up, then record it and listen to it repeatedly
• That day, be rested, grateful, and ready to share with energy and awareness of your audience by introducing yourself prior to the talk (or saying hellos to those you already know), and having a sense of connection with them sincerely

Working to be the conduit of learning and growth as you happen to speak publicly takes away much of the angst and "me-focus" by transferring nerves to energy as you engage in the "we-sharing" of presenting!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition #PEACe #peaceful

Achieving Success!

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other." 

~ Abraham Lincoln

Success is often an aspiration, an inspiration, a dream, and a goal.

So, what is a success, and how do you get to "it"?

In order to enjoy and experience your success, please consider the following for getting "there":

1) Define what success is for you - not for others, not those who are mentoring, coaching, or even supporting you - simply for you! What does that look like, feel like, and more? You want to have that sense and focus first so you can move ahead.

2) Be mindful of imposter syndrome, which is believing that others will realize you are not as good as you present yourself. The way to overcome that is to stop comparing yourself to others and really own your experience and expertise for the value you bring.

3) Be happy for other successful people, SINCERELY, and not simply in words or posts - SINCERELY - no gossiping or jealousy of others. At the same time don't apologize for being smart, right or passionate about a topic.

4) Surround yourself with successful people AND continue to learn and grow both humbly and proudly! Often we hear we become the 5-6 people we surround ourselves with - and it is true, so choose wisely, and if you distance yourself from someone, remember, what they do may be successful for them, just doesn't for you at that time. Stay away from judging them, and be open to them changing, as they may be inspired by you, OR they may be defensive, and simply wish them well.

None of this will distract you or take away for your enjoyment in life and business, rather it will all buoy you up to experience all you can as you are succeeding and sharing that success with others!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Coopertition

Four Keys to Public Speaking Success!

People say “Fake it ‘til you make it,” that “You’ll get better at presenting by presenting,” to “Picture everyone in the audience naked, or look over their heads, to calm your nerves,” and “When you practice, it sounds scripted, so just shoot from the hip to sound real,” and yet these untruths are part of what makes the idea of public speaking the no. 1 fear for Americans.

Public speaking is not the problem. It’s not the issue. How public speaking is perceived and how it is incorrectly “taught” are a couple of the challenges with people being successful presenting ideas, products, and even themselves.

In the face of all this presentation confusion, how do we increase our presentation prowess? It’s by overcoming all that ill-advised counsel with truths and practical, useful tips that are readily implementable. The four keys to presenting beyond public speaking fears and misperceptions are:

1)  Be an expert on the topic, and don’t be concerned if other experts are there too. It’s a presentation, not a competition.

2) Put the audience first by setting a goal for them, about them.

3) Get out of your own way by being present and not being concerned about how you look, sound, or the day you had before presenting, or what you have going on after presenting.

4) Come from a place of gratitude, with thoughts and comments of “I get to present today at 1:00 p.m. on our first quarter 2019 outlook” rather than “I have to speak on the 2019 number later today.”

About those lies…here are the truths:

Specifically, resist “faking it ‘til you make it” by focusing on making it about what you are doing until you make it to the next step, and onto the next step, and ultimately to the subsequent results. Make it about sharing and learning, and then you don’t have to fake your interest or your effort.

Let go of the notion that you’ll get better at speaking by speaking. Sadly, you will simply get used to being average, at best, if you do not change how you are speaking. You will get comfortable speaking, and yet average and comfortable are not likely huge draws for audiences. How you improve speaking is by engaging the audience, keeping your ego out of your efforts and off the stage. When you have that all set, you can let your personality shine and your persuasiveness connect.

#IHatePublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment

Lessons Learned: Closed Door/Open Window

"Don't spend time beating on a wall, hoping to transform it into a door."

~ Coco Chanel

It is often said that when one door closes, another one opens, or that when a door closes, a window opens, and that may give us a sense of "things will work out", and yet you are encouraged to think and act upon "If I choose to close a door, I get to open another door or window!"!

I embraced this in 2022, by choosing to resign from some boards, and rolling off others as I opened up to new boards and opened my mouth to welcome some of the new board members with encouragement, and by doing that I certainly learned some lessons, including:

1) Do not let a door stand in your way - open or closed, you choose what you walk past or walk through.

2) Leaving something or someone doesn't remove the impact you had, it simply ends the experience (not the memories).

3) Look back not on the closed door, rather look back to learn from experiences to grow, and mistakes to avoid in the future that you may have missed at the moments that came up later that added to the reason you closed it.

4) Look forward to doors and windows, as well as the people who present themselves in those spaces/opportunities, as there is no fear in the unknown when you know there is hope and anticipation in the future for what can be, rather than what might not happen!

So, as I did, go ahead, and close a door, open another, open a window or more than one. It's not the closing that stops your progress, it is the opening that inspires new beginnings and forwards momentum!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude

Debbie@DebbieLundberg.com 813.494.4438 DebbieLundberg.com

Stressed or Blessed?

 "Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one." ~ Hans Selye

If you were to answer the question "Are you stressed or blessed?", what would you say? Stressed? Blessed? Both?

If you think you are stressed, you will likely feel stressed. When you feel stressed, you typically approach people and situations impatiently and/or with a bit of negativity or doubt.

While if you think you are blessed, you will likely feel blessed. When you feel blessed, you will often approach people and situations with hope and openness, even positively!

Should you think the answer is "Both", you will bounce back and forth between stressed and blessed, and even though that could seem fair, go past fairness into goodness by adjusting your thoughts toward blessed. 

Blessed thoughts are those of abundance and strength, gratitude and appreciation, perspective and purpose. Being in a state of blessed in thoughts and feelings doesn't necessarily imply a religious or even spiritual connotation, yet it can be a huge part of your connectedness - however that concept of 'blessed' sits with you.

Alternatively, stressed thoughts are those of lack and fear-filled vulnerability, and can be an unfortunate part of a lack of connectedness.

By being blessed, not stressed or both stressed and blessed, you will serve yourself, and additionally, those around you will have the chance to feed off your approach and attitude!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #KIND #Leadership #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence #EmotionalIntelligence #PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #KindnessIsMyOwnSuperpower #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #Resiliency #Growth #LessonsLearned #Gratitude

Debbie@DebbieLundberg.com 813.494.4438 DebbieLundberg.com

THIS MONTH'S Lessons Learned: Appreciative of Another Year on Earth, and Ways to Keep Learning!

Today is a happy birthday, and I am thrilled! Thanks for being a part of this year!

If there were themes for the past 12 months, they'd be Miles & Smiles, Impact & Energy, AND, Declutter & Appreciation.

By covering a lot of miles running, in a car, and on a plane, personally and professionally, certainly, there were many fond memories and a lot of smiles - some of them through some pain and feeling disappointed as well as while really having fun!

LESSON LEARNED: Smile through challenges in order to live and learn, and to get to the parts of life that really matter - making lasting memories with people you care about!

Considering impact and energy, one of my focuses was to very intentionally assess where my energy was being expended, and how/what the impact was.

LESSON LEARNED: It is key to ensure a good return on investment where energy is shared - for others and yourself, so move on when the ROI isn't there and double down when it is!

When I made time for decluttering things physically, that lead to further appreciating space and effort alike, so new donations were made, new groups were joined, existing boards were resigned from or I rolled off them while clear choices were made to spend time and give talent where it would be valued, respected, and appreciated.

LESSON LEARNED: Free yourself of clutter, any clutter in space in your home, business, and especially in your head, as that freeing feeling will allow for a sense of centering...and clear direction for progress!

Thanks for the memories, and cheers to many more as I go into being 54 with a genuine smile on my face, with intent and energy directed toward kindness & growth, and a clear mind and clean office & home - ready to embrace whatever is ahead with gusto and gratitude!

#Birthday #Thanks #LessonsLearned #Gratitude #Kind #kindness #Kindnessmatters #1KindAct #KindnessNeedNotBeQuarantined #Perspective #LifeLongLearner #AgingGracefullyIsEmpowering

Go from Duped to Empowered!

 “And how they take one in, with their manners and their mock wistfulness and gentleness.”

~ D.H. Lawrence, Lady Chatterley's Lover

Ever felt duped?

If you feel a sense of being made a fool, you may want to check in with yourself with these 4 questions/considerations in order to move through the situation, and avoid that DUPE feeling in the future:

1) D - Did I have a feeling about this before? (YES, then trust yourself, NO, then check in on paying attention to signs). And then do yourself a favor, and spend little time explaining or rationalizing what you missed, and spend your energy on what you have now!

2) U - Understanding what is happening now, would I have done anything differently to change the outcome (If time travel were possible)?

3) P - Pride plays a factor in accepting someone took advantage of you, so ensure you do not let pride get in the way of clearly assessing what you missed, rather than being tempted to blame others for what they did (blame gets you nowhere).

4) E - Ensure you know that how others treat you is a reflection of their integrity (or lack thereof), and instead of asking "Why me?", ask "What can I do differently for me?", and "How can I keep people like this out of my circle of trust in order to grow personally & professionally"?

You are not a dope or a dupe when you have been "played", rather you were a player in a game you likely did not register to play!

As you move through this situation, remove or distance the people who were a part of it, address it with them if you believe they were unintentional, and completely skip that part if you believe it will lead to arguing or them being further cruel in their smallness in an attempt to gain what they may have thought of as a big win by putting you in a bad place.

The temptation is often to confront someone when they have duped us, yet the leader says and believes "everyone has the right to feel as they do, and while I am feeling hurt and surprised, I also know I get to move forward and learn" where engaging further with the culprits will likely go nowhere, or worse, backward!

Being duped means you were trustworthy of someone who did not deserve your trust. It does not mean you cannot trust again or learn from your mistakes in judgment.

So, if you, like me, have been duped by colleagues or presumed friends, use your kindness toward yourself, exercise your emotional intelligence, take that experience and turn it into a badge of courage for facing yourself and your role in it, not being bitter or angry, not complaining, and coming through on the other side empowered; stronger and resilient, even if there is a little scar there! 

#DontBeDuped #Leadership #Duped #Leadership #Kind #1KindAct #Growth #EmotionalIntelligence

When you KNOW your plan &

you KNOW your alternatives &

you KNOW your resilience,

YOU KNOW YOU ARE POSITIVELY GETTING THROUGH WHATEVER YOU FACE!

When you have NO plan &

and NO alternatives &

no resilience,

YOU HAVE NO WAY OF POSITIVELY GETTING THROUGH WHATEVER YOU FACE!

#ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalDevelopment #Kind #EmotionalIntelligence #Change

#PerformanceCoaching #OneBeanerPerformanceCoach #LivingKindly #Choose #Kindness #CoachsCorner #Resilience #HaveAPlan #Positivity

#WorkdayWakeUp

Debbie@DebbieLundberg.com 813.494.4438 DebbieLundberg.com