“…And What Else?” Issue No. 19

“...And What Else?”

Newsletter and Thought Starter

Issue No. 19

Success begins by asking the right questions. So why not a newsletter that asks a powerful question: “…and what else?”

Hope these insights pierce through the clutter and create a moment to reflect on your purpose.

First Thoughts

Always, Never

He never shows up on time.

She always disagrees with me.

They never understand.

I never have time to do that.

Absolutes. They are a handy crutch when things don’t go our way. It’s often easier to believe that’s just the way it is. Yet, rarely is there an “always” or “never.” It is most often a nuanced “sometimes” or “occasionally.” Or, “it depends.” After all, the underdog sometimes wins.

And oh, in case you’re thinking, the sun “always” rises and sets, remember this: each occurrence is different enough that we marvel at its uniqueness.

Thinking Out Loud

Are Your 2023 Goals Aligned to Your Future You?

As I set my goals for 2023, a friend reminded me of a parable he once shared that I had forgotten. He emailed me the story shortly after our talk. It goes like this:

The Forty-Two Challenge

Question #37: What are you waiting for?

The Challenge: There is no “perfect” time, but there might be a “right” time. One step forward is all that is required for progress.

That thing you’ve been putting off because you’re: scared, nervous, risk intolerant, etc. … How about doing it right now?

Share your reflections on your favorite social channel. #FortyTwoQuestions

Don’t Wait!

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“I don’t need to understand myself any better,” said no successful leader, ever.

Worth Reading

14,000 Things to be Happy About by Barbara Ann Kipfer

I received this book as a gift many, many years ago. Funny thing—I don’t remember who gave it to me. Yet (as is evident from the photo) the book is well used.

I’ll admit some of the entries resonate with a narrow population (mocha tarts) while some are truly globally inspiring (Frank Sinatra records). Yet, a quick peruse never fails to produce a smile, fond memory, or chuckle.

Thought Starter: There are so many books, podcasts, and TED talks about what creates happiness (I’ve noted several of them in this space). Yet, it really is a personal thing, isn’t it? So, maybe it’s less about us “agreeing” on what creates happiness and more about you “recognizing” what it is for you.

Looking for more great reads? Check out these purposeful resources.

Worth Watching

On Blame, Brene Brown

The first place we go is, “Whose fault is it?” According to Brown, with blame, we’re looking for control where there is none. Blame is a way to discharge anger and prevents listening and detracts from our ability to create accountability.

Thought Starter: Blame is a missed opportunity to display empathy. How can you catch yourself so the next time something bad happens instead of asking, “Whose fault is this?” you start a conversation?

Final Thoughts

"You can tell whether a man is clever by his answers. You can tell whether a man is wise by his questions."

Naguib Mahfouz

Leadership Coaching | Team Development Training and Facilitation