Surviving & Thriving with ME-TIME

On October 30th, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams office hosted the Surviving & Thriving Day of Empowerment to support survivors of Domestic Violence. Our Corporate Wellness team collaborated with BuddhaBooth to give attendees the opportunity to take a time out for themselves.

How to describe this ME-TIME experience? 

I shared relaxation techniques and provided therapeutic Young Living essential oils to help women enhance their experience inside the private meditation space.

As pictured, she put a drop of Lavender onto her palm, then rubbed her hands together. The strong scent has the power to soothe emotional stress. She placed her hands near her face and inhaled. Finally, it was time to enter the BuddhaBooth -- her five minutes of calm in a peaceful and quiet space. She took a big breath and sat inside, allowing her breath to settle, and her body to get still. Her mind started to wander, as all of her thoughts resurfaced. She took another big breath and her heartbeat slowed down. She was finally able to feel it: that sense of ultimate relaxation it can be so difficult to achieve.

Francine Steadman Krulak, founder and CEO of BuddhaBooth, participated in a panel discussion alongside other thriving women in business offering insight about her healing journey, on what it means to make a choice to be a thriving survivor, not a "victim" and that the first step is learning to love yourself from your own point of view, not that of another.  The discussion topics included the current headlines of mass sexual harassment in the workplace and why it's so prevalent, combined with strategies to combat domestic violence and sexual harassment.


BuddhaBooth is committed to partnering with and supporting programs that benefit survivors of domestic violence, women’s health research, prison reform and autism-related resources. Our Coaching team is launching the Sponsor-a-Sister Initiative to enable at-risk women to attend our monthly New Moon Circles without cost being an issue.

Domestic violence survivors face each and every day ongoing and challenging effects of the abuse they have suffered. Problems don’t end when victims escape the nightmare. However, although difficult and painful, recovery from abuse is possible. What we did on that day was give them a chance to escape from their situation for a while, feel safe and alive again. This was one of the moments when you realize your hard work and efforts have paid off. Sometimes it takes so little to help someone; and we were very glad to have been part of this incredible and inspiring event.

Why You Need Rituals in Your Life

What Are You Ready to Release?

November, 2017 marks one year that I've been leading New Moon Circles!

Over this past year, I've learned so much -- about myself, and also about the significance of rituals. Rituals enable us to consciously recognize pivotal moments in our lives, and notice the synergy with the ebb and flow of Nature and the world around us.

What rituals do you include in your daily / weekly / monthly / quarterly routine? Do you have a Circle or tribe of women that supports you in your rituals?

I've recently learned that this period of late October / early November is called Samhain, in Celtic tradition.  You may be more familiar with it as Halloween as it's typically celebrated in the US.

It's a ripe time to take the opportunity to reflect on your year and note what you've manifested, and note what you're ready to release.

If you'd like to try out a Samhain ritual to assist you with this release, click HERE.

Full Moon Ritual

Good news -- the Taurus Full Moon is all about abundance!

So, this is a good time (after you've released what no longer serves you), to be conscious about what abundance you'd like to call into your life. Remember that abundance is more than just about financial overflow.

In what other areas of your life would you like to manifest abundance? Click HERE for a ritual to help you set conscious intentions for abundance over the next few days.

Detox & Cleanse this Fall for More Energy, Less Colds this Winter

Fall is a natural time of transition and new beginnings. It's also the perfect time for a natural, gentle detox cleanse to reboot your mind, body and spirit to prepare for a winter of wellness!

"Ayurvedic health educators say it's important to slow down, support your liver's natural ability to remove toxins from the body, and take stock of the influences that you allow into your life—from the kind of food you eat to the amount of time you spend in front of an electronic device." Yoga Journal

Beginning September 23rd (and continuing through mid-October), I'll be hosting my 7-Day Fall 2013 Cleanse. You can pick which week works best for you!

I'll be providing support and guidance throughout the week -- we've got an online community so you can share what you're experiencing and receive feedback. In just 7 days, you'll discover the gentlest cleansing herbs, most nutritious foods, and easiest stress reduction techniques so you can still do all of the things you love to do while getting your body in shape for the winter season. That's right, NO harsh diuretics and NO fasting!

Why not give yourself the ultimate ME-time gift to rejuvenate yourself -- mind, body and spirit! Visit the 7-Day Fall 2013 Cleanse website to complete your (free) registration and to learn more about the PURIFY Ayurveda cleansing kit ... the same one used at the Chopra Center for Wellbeing during their retreats!

Let's get Back to School, Back to Work, AND Back to Healthy Living this Fall!

 

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Tap Your Way to Less Stress, Better Health

I just had an amazing experience at a workshop I went to last week to learn a technique called EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).

EFT (sometimes known as “Tapping”) involves tapping on a series of acupuncture meridian points on the face and body while repeating certain phrases to clear negative emotions and painful sensations. Tapping in this structured way helps to clear energy blockages and release stresses deep within the body.

In fact, it goes far further than this; EFT can be used to improve many areas of your life and health. Empirical and evidence-based research has shown that EFT has helped people to overcome anxiety, stress, panic attacks, PTSD, fears and other phobias; as well as to achieve weight loss and eliminate food cravings. Such compelling results for such an easy, user-friendly technique -- it's priceless!

I came across EFT early this year through an online tapping summit, as I was seeking out new body-mind-spirit healing techniques. This summer, I decided to purchase the EFT Manual by Gary Craig to guide me through learning this fantastic technique. Gary Craig is a Stanford-trained engineer who developed the EFT process in the early 1990's based on his study of Thought Field Therapy (TFT) with Dr. Roger Callahan.

As I read through the EFT Manual and began tapping, I became more and more interested in learning how I might include EFT into my own stress management practice. This led me to explore various EFT websites to find out about training and certification programs. Lo and behold, I found the amazing EFT Master Trainer, Practitioner, and course leader Peter Donn. 

Peter came all the way to NYC from London last week to lead an exciting 2-day Level 1 EFT Training! As well as having my own powerful experiences, I personally witnessed many participants’ past traumas dissolving (likely permanently) over the course of 30 minutes work with Peter, as well as physical symptoms being relieved in as little as 5-15 minutes. 

I'll keep you posted as I continue to use EFT to heal myself and as I work towards my EFT certification -- my next step is Level 2 Training. I'll also be including EFT into my coaching sessions and training workshops in the coming weeks and months. Let's TAP our way to less stress, better health, and emotional freedom!! 

Coach Colette Says Relax on August 15

Did you know that August 15 is National Relaxation Day? What will YOU do to calm and quiet your mind? 

To ease your anxiety and release your tension, why not join me for a (free) Guided Meditation session?! I'll be guiding you based on meditation principles I learned from my training in Coping with Work & Family Stress. 

With all of the emails, IM's, FB posts, texts, tweets, voice-mails -- don't you deserve some ME-time to relax, unwind, and re-group? 

You probably don't need much convincing of the benefits of relaxing and reducing your stress. Just in case, though, here are three health-related reasons:

1. Your stress is aging you faster -- by damaging critical DNA in your cells
2. Your stress increases your risk of a heart attack -- by nearly 70% for women
3. Meditation can ease your stress -- by changing your brain to delay aging and improve health

This Guided Meditation session is my gift to you. Will you accept and sign up today? 

Know that I'm rooting for you and support your intention to relax so that you can achieve your biggest dreams and create the fulfilled, joyful, and purposeful life you want to live! 

I look forward to "seeing" you next Wednesday, August 15 ... meet me in the gap.

How I Broke Through My Fears - Literally

I had the privilege to be a guest last Saturday at the Winter Rejuvenation Workshop hosted by Jasmin Terrany and her fantastic team of experts and healers. It was so rewarding to experience their gifts and take part in their activities to help re-align my mind-body-spirit.

As a coach, I know it's important to take ME-TIME, and this workshop was a great opportunity for me to practice what I preach. I'd like to share a bit about my personal breakthroughs.

The closing exercise was designed to help us find our true power so that we can experience true mind-body-spirit alignment. This was achieved through breaking -- several participants agreeing to strike a wood block with their fists. It's often in these situations that I'm not sure from where my motivation to participate strikes me. All I knew was my hand shot up in the air when El asked for volunteers.

My instruction was to write on one side of the board some of my FEARS [false evidence appearing real], and to write on the opposite side of the board some of my DREAMS [dedication responsibility education attitude motivation]. Then, at the front of the room, I would acknowledge my fears (by bowing to the board) and then BREAK-THROUGH by striking the board with my fist.

I was the first volunteer; so in addition to the fears I had written on the board, I also had performance anxiety chattering in my head ... "What if I don't break the board? Will they laugh at me? Will I de-motivate everyone else?" Not to mention, will I break my hand?!

Somehow, I was able to access my inner power, make connection with the board, face my fears, and BREAK-THROUGH to the other side! And, NOT break my hand, LOL! I've since kept the broken board pieces on my fireplace mantle as a reminder of my experience. What's ironic, though, is my little inner fear-voice inside isn't completely silenced. Occasionally, I've found "her" internally critiquing me because I didn't break-through the board in two equal parts like others had done. Of course, I know that my willingness to take this activity on and face my fears head-on is what counts. And, I'll always have the broken board as my reminder to motivate me when "she" surfaces. And, I'll gently let her know it's ok.

Was there a time that you faced your fears head-on? What happened? What did you learn? How are you stronger as a result of doing so? Share your comments here or tweet me on Twitter.

Tune in and Take the 2012 Mind Cleanse Challenge

It's the start of the year, yet are you already feeling overwhelmed?

Take the Mind Cleanse Challenge and take some ME-time! Tune in to hear my tips on how to regain your focus and identify your stress triggers -- and learn how those triggers show up in your body. I was recently featured as a guest expert on Own Your Power Radio Show hosted by founder, Simone Kelly Brown. You'll also hear some great ideas from yoga expert, Kelly Ann Clark.

Let me know what you learn and what new mind cleanse habits you'll take on in 2012!

My 3 Words for 2012

Happy New Year! In keeping with tradition (isn't it funny how habits/rituals become tradition?), I'd like to share with you my 3 Words for 2012. I can't believe it's been three years since I adopted this habit from Chris Brogan ... where did the time go?!

Ironically, since taking on this habit, I've noticed that my mind begins thinking of the 3 Words that will shape the next year sooner. So, I'll share my 3 Words (and some of my intentions) in the order in which they came to and inspired me ... although my Type A personality wants me to share them in alphabetical order, LOL! :-) Drum roll please .....

1. Travel: I intend to travel via multiple business trips and vacations to see the world and expand my horizons. This word was inspired by a few things including my intention/desire to travel to London to watch the 2012 Olympics. I'd also like to travel to lead women's empowerment programs around the world in places like Haiti and Libya.
2. Wealth: I intend to build wealth in 2012 so I can do more, live longer, leave a legacy, transform lives and change the world. I've begun adopting a different mindset about money as a form of energy with which I can do GREAT things. I know the more I earn the more I can serve others -- on a business and personal level.
3. Fun: I intend to have fun with my family, friends, soulmate, clients, business partners, and associates in 2012. I intend to incorporate fun into my work, my play, my ME-TIME, my vacation (yes, will need some support on that one!). The personal mantra that has developed in my mind around this word is: Have FUN, or go home! And, I've created a new business slogan around this word as well: InStep Consulting -- We Make Healthy Living FUN!

So far, I've written my intention statements associated with all 3 Words. And, I've incorporated images into my Vision Board slideshow to represent these words. I'll be creating my Outlook daily task item with these intentions later today. And, I'm hopeful and optimistic for the year.

I will note the potential irony of writing this post today -- according to Deepak Chopra and the Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, Friday is aligned with The Law of Detachment, which states:

"Allow yourself and others the freedom to be who they are. Do not force solutions -- allow solutions to spontaneously emerge. Uncertainty is essential and is your path to freedom."

So, I know that I have begun the year with my intentions; and I need be detached from the solutions or outcomes. I don't know exactly how my 3 Words will shape my life in 2012. I know only that I'm expressing these words from a place of love and good intentions. And, I know that this level of detachment will come more easily on some (Fri)days than others!

What are your 3 Words for 2012? What intentions do you have for this year?

NEW Podcast: Clear Your Clutter – Why It’s OK to Let Go Now

In our New Normal of rapid change and 24/7 technology, it's important that you find ways to be more centered and focus on what's most important. That can be challenging if your living or working space is cluttered or disorganized.

The good news is I've just released a new podcast with my friend and professional organizer, Juli Oliver: Clear Your Clutter: Why It's OK to Let Go Now!

As founder of OrganizeNY, Juli specializes in helping clients with home and office projects such as: how to balance household and home office areas; how to create inviting living and working spaces that take full advantage of every last inch of space -- really crucial in cities like New York!

Clearing clutter can go a long way to creating space for you to receive new ideas and new opportunities -- just by changing your line of sight (i.e., the things you see - or don't see) when you walk into a room can refresh your energy, open your mindset, and change your outlook on your situation. Letting go of old items also can help you release emotional ties to negative or non-productive aspects of your past. I started off the year by clearing out old TV's and phones, a printer and other bulk items. It truly lightened my load and made me feel better about my living space. [Now, to get rid of that old air conditioner ...]

In addition to sharing her TOP 3 Tips on How to Be More Organized to Find Greater Balance, Juli also describes her entrepreneurial background -- which seems to run in her family!

And, that's really appropriate since this podcast is the second in a series of shows featuring women entrepreneurs you really need to know -- featured along with me in the CRAVE New York City Guide, an urban girl's manifesto of the most chic, savvy, and vibrant business owners this city has to offer.

Renew and Recharge Yourself this Spring

As you think about your health and lifestyle, do you feel like you're on target with the goals you set out at the beginning of the year?

No worries about your response -- Spring is the perfect time to refocus and renew your energy!

On my end, I've done a one-day "liquid fast" to begin clearing out toxins; I also completed a 3.5-day retreat at the beginning of April to get my juices flowing so that I can be fully present with my clients, colleagues, and family/friends.

If you're looking for some guidance to refuel your energy, I'm excited to let you know about a special offer to participate in a 21-Day Recharge and Renewal Program -- a 4-part telecourse beginning April 25th -- hosted by my friend and colleague, Frances Cheung.

Frances is a board certified Holistic Nutrition & Wellness Coach and graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York. She and are working together this year to offer new programs to help re-connect you with your health goals, empower you to commit to a healthy lifestyle, and re-ignite your inner brilliance. As a first step, I'm offering a FREE copy of my Focus on Your Vision eBook as a bonus to all who sign up for her 21-Day Recharge and Renewal Program.

Frances, like me, is someone who believes in "walking the talk." She developed her program because she once struggled with being overweight/underweight, feeling burnt out because of erratic sleeping patterns and headaches. She will personally guide you through a 21-day journey to re-engage your body, mind and spirit.

What would you get? Four weekly group coaching calls [Mondays: April 25, May 2, May 9, May 16] led by Frances to help you start your cleanse/whole-foods eating, set yourself up for success, and transition out so that you don't shock your system! Plus, Frances will give you access to "Done-for-You" recipes, shopping lists, meal plans, take-out "cheat sheets," and other food guidelines to help you maintain your healthy momentum going forward.

I'm going to stop here and let Frances tell you more about the benefits of participating -- except to say that if you register by April 20, you'll get to take advantage of the early-bird pricing (save $50). If you're open to a new, gentle approach to whole-foods eating, healthy dieting, and curbing cravings, visit the website to learn more about the 21-Day Recharge and Renew Program. And, if you sign up, let me know how it goes!

What 3 Words Will Shape Your 2011?

Two years ago, I was inspired by social media expert Chris Brogan to refine my goals and capture my true intentions by focusing on 3 Words that would shape my year. Here is a link to that post. Each year since, I've used my 3 Words and accompanying affirmations as a daily mantra to keep me focused and forward-thinking.

Here are my 3 Words for 2011:

1. RELEASE: I intend to release negative beliefs, energy and people from my mind and my life

2. ACT: I intend to take concrete, specific actions to fulfill my true intentions, dreams and desires

3. LOVE: I intend to keep my heart open to love in all its manifestations so that I may attract my love partner and soulmate

It's fitting that I write and share this post with you today, as I was able to physically release some "e-waste" from my space (old audio, computer equipment) -- one item, in particular, I was especially glad to let go of. The space is beginning to feel lighter.

In Focus on Your Vision, I write about how reaching a deeper level of awareness of your intentions can help you make choices about what you do, who you want to do it with, and how you respond to people when they make requests of your time.

Your intentions can transcend your personal and professional relationships and encounters. For me, this year, my intentions are blended between the two aspects of my life -- in a more explicit way than ever before. And, I feel that it's important for me to articulate them in this way so that I can be authentic to both my personal and professional goals.

What about you? What 3 Words Will Shape Your 2011? Feel free to comment here on the blog or tweet me your 3 Words on Twitter to @Coach_Colette.

NEW Podcast: Meditation-Your Secret to Success in the New Normal

Can meditation change your brain? That's a question that neuroscientists have been seeking to answer for decades - and there appears to be some evidence that it can, in a positive way. In today's New Normal, the pressure to perform can be overwhelming. The good news is that you CAN find tools to relax and release your tension and anxiety. Meditation is one of those stress-releasing tools. And one, I'd suggest, that could become your [peaceful] "secret weapon" to overcome personal or professional hurdles and challenges you may be facing.

This summer, I completed a 21-day meditation "challenge" led by the Chopra Center for Wellbeing. I've been meditating nearly every day since then (even while I was out of the country). I've found that it helps me because I'm more easily able to access a mantra or positive phrase to flip my script when things get stressful.

With my newly-regained interest in meditation, I thought it would be great to create a podcast that would help others learn more about the benefits of regular meditation. And, so my latest podcast is my conversation with Stacey Shipman, creator of the audio CD Let it Flow: Short Guided Meditations and author of Experience Less Stress, More Success: Networking for Business. It was great to chat with Stacey again because she really makes it easy for people to learn how to relieve their stress and boost their personal confidence.

In the podcast, Stacey and I talk about the different types of meditation, and how easy it can be to begin meditating using the type you most enjoy. We share tips to remove distractions (internal thoughts and external things) that can get in your way, and discuss how you can build meditation into your daily schedule to help you focus on your true priorities.

So, you know I'm a curious coach! After you've listened to the podcast, let me know what you think; and share your successes (or challenges) with meditation. Where is the best place, and when is best time for you to meditate? Feel free to share your comments here, or tweet me on Twitter. Until we next connect, Namaste!

It's Day 12 & I Feel Empowered

Today is Day 12, and I'm proud to have made it this far. To where? For what? It's Day 12 of the Chopra Center 21-Day Meditation Challenge. This has been a series of guided meditations (audio & video) led by davidji to help promote a daily meditation practice.

While I've recognized the benefits of meditation, I hadn't yet committed to a daily practice. As you know, I've committed to my daily affirmations and review of my vision board. My approach was more of a "just-in-time" meditation practice -- using it when I specifically wanted (or needed) to relax and regroup. Two things from the meditation experience have struck me personally, so far:

1. davidji's concept of "RPM" -- "rise, p**, meditate" which means you basically meditate FIRST before any other brain-related activity. I'll admit that I didn't start the challenge that way; but have been pretty diligent about doing so for the past 5 days or so. This morning I felt like I had to remind myself to start the meditation first -- only then did I realize that I'm still formulating it as a habit [also possibly because I hadn't followed the RPM concept last Monday??].
2. Today's focus for the meditation was Ego & Limiting Beliefs: neither of these concepts are new to me. What did strike me was the suggestion to "be kind to your ego." Perhaps it's because one of my 3 Words for 2010 is also kind. I think it was a good reminder to allow and accept all aspects of the self -- to witness/observe without judgment -- so that true transformation can be possible.

The additional guidance and breathing mantras around limiting beliefs also were very powerful for me today. The suggestion to "breathe in possibilities, and breathe out limitations," for example, really resonated and made me feel empowered. [yes, even the coach needs reinforcement and reminders!] I did feel lighter at the end of the meditation as if loads had been lifted from my shoulders.

That's all for now ... I may revisit this later as the meditation experience continues. Feel free to share your meditation experiences with me here or you can always tweet me on Twitter. Namaste!

Coach Colette Goes Global in 2010

Last January, I took inspiration from social media guru Chris Brogan, and followed his suggestion to refine and refocus my key goals and intentions for the year into 3 Words. Of course, I've just now realized that I didn't share with you my 3 Words for 2010. They are KIND (to myself and others), GLOBAL (partnerships and relationships) and JOY (in experiences and encounters).

You can trust that I have been focusing on those words - using the same affirmation strategy as last year, a daily task reminder that appears in my Outlook - which brings me to the point of this article: Going GLOBAL. The thing I'm (still) learning about consistently setting intentions and making affirmations is that you never know exactly how the results will appear. Yes, even the coach can have a "Duh!" moment or two! :)

My first GLOBAL result was working this spring with a fantastic consulting associate from Paris who helped design training materials and activities for one of our Change Management client engagements. The next GLOBAL result was connecting with a dynamic UK-based training firm to explore new business opportunities.

My next GLOBAL connection came early summer via an introduction by a colleague to Enrique Mesones, the founder of Smart Connections, a global executive search, strategy consulting and venture firm. Nearly 10,000 elite executives from top-tier universities around the globe have registered for the Smart Global Network -- a free, membership-only networking environment to view the hottest business projects around the globe, attain business funding, and receive optimal executive education. As a result of my intentions, affirmations (and yes, expertise) I'm now an Executive Coach with the Smart Global Network!

My next GLOBAL activity is one that brings me great pride as it's a chance for me to continue my work with my "rowdy" librarians! In September, I'll be facilitating leadership and advocacy training in Brussels as part of the Global Libraries Initiative sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. I'm still learning exactly what it will involve; and will share more info as things progress. I'll also aim to blog and tweet as much as I can while I'm on the road.

I'm excited by all of these things that have happened in 2010. They are wonderful yet unexpected connections ... and so I will keep making affirmations around my 3 Words for 2010, and aim to let go of figuring out "how" things will manifest.

What are your thoughts? Do you have examples to share of when unexpected (positive) things "appeared" in your life? If you make affirmations, how do you "let go" of the results? Comment here or tweet me on Twitter!

The "Back to ... Blues" vs. Presence

So, it's "back to school" time. I was a little shocked on Monday evening when I felt a small tingle of the "Back to ... Blues" about the return to work. Could it have been "muscle memory" in my brain from all of those Labor Day evenings growing up? Or, [more likely] was it the knowledge I had 100+ emails to review after my "stay-cation"?

I'm impressed that I remained relatively unplugged during my "stay-cation" -- managed to electronically weed through business-related emails on my BlackBerry to keep my focus on unwinding. To assist with this intention, I began reading Eckhart Tolle's A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose. I was fascinated by his comments on the ego and our struggle with being truly conscious and present.

Even the concept of the "Back to ... Blues" is in conflict with being present, right? It's an expression of dread in the current moment (possibly the day before work/school/etc.) about a future moment that we presume will be negative. So, perhaps we miss out on something fantastic in the current moment because we're so concerned about the future potential of something bad. It may sound trivial when you're reading it [I had a few "well, duh!" moments with myself while reading the book]; but it's good to even recognize when this has happened (or is happening) to you. That level of awareness is the big "A-HA!" that can help increase your level of presence.

Being on "stay-cation" provided a lot of space for me to consider these concepts without the form pressures of meetings or client commitments. Staying conscious and present in the Now during life's normal adventures will be the challenge. I'll continue to reflect on this -- and am intrigued to hear your thoughts. How do you stay present in the Now?

NEW Podcast on Stress & Eating Habits

Hello and Happy (belated) Mother's Day to all of the moms out there! I had a great dinner with my mom and dad on Sunday evening here in NYC (Primehouse New York).

This post is to let you know of a new podcast I've recently uploaded to the Competent Advantage TM podcast channel about Stress & Eating Habits. It’s my conversation with Frances Cheung, a board-certified holistic health counselor. In addition to her private coaching practice, she is also a nutrition counselor at Wat, a premier Thai boxing gym in New York.

Frances and I shared insights on how you can break the unhealthy connection between stress and food. For the most part, I'm a pretty healthy eater (vegetarian who eats fish). Occasionally, though, I do have cravings -- usually for crunchy/salty snacks, but once in a while for chocolate [which made the Hershey trip a bit of a challenge with such easy access to chocolate 24 x 7]. I finally "released my shoulds" and gave myself permission while there to sample without feeling guilty. It made the experience more enjoyable -- so that I didn't freak out every time I ate a mini-Peppermint Patty (that was the "assigned" candy for my training room). And, I didn't over-indulge either.

In the podcast, we focus on healthy eating habits -- e.g., I learned from Frances about the potential downside of eating while standing up -- and offer tips to reduce stress even amidst our hectic lifestyles. Hope you enjoy -- and let me know what you think after you listen.

Finding "Me Time" in Salt Lake City

Greetings from Salt Lake City! I'm here conducting leadership training as part of my exciting new project with the Public Library Association. Over the next several weeks, I'll be helping public librarians and trustees across the country build their confidence and enthusiasm for advocacy to help fuel their efforts to increase local library funding . The event, Turning the Page: Building Your Library Community is a unique leadership development program created by PLA.

My goal is to share with you insights and ideas I gather from participants in my various sessions on enhancing project leadership; creating compelling stories; and making impactful presentations.

Some of you may remember that this isn't my first visit to Salt Lake. Back in February 2006, I visited the area on another business trip. In that post, I talked about how a change in scenery can be motivating. While I haven't had as much time to wander the city, I did feel a sense of calm as I entered the region on the plane -- the view of the mountains really has a calming effect on me.

In a recent enhancing project leadership session, we discussed the characteristics of effective leaders. After we'd developed a very comprehensive list of qualities and traits on the flipchart, one participant raised her hand and said "time for self." When I prompted her to share more, she reminded us all of how important it is for leaders to find time when we're not representing or speaking on behalf of anyone or any organization. It reminded me of our ongoing challenge to "unplug" and relax in our ever-connected world. By nature, librarians are so giving and helpful. I'm glad she was able to give herself permission to create some space for me-time.

I'm excited to share more tidbits and nuggets I gather from the library leaders and their supporters. The energy and participation levels have been great! Next week, I'll be visiting Wichita, Kansas for the first time! Until then, take care and find some me-time this weekend!

You Deserve the Good Life - Join me in St. Maarten!

I'm very excited to announce a collaborative event with the JI Group coming up on April 23-28, 2008 in St. Maarten. The Good Life Festival & Retreat is designed for hard working professionals to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

As part of the Enrichment Series, I'll be leading visualization and meditation sessions based on my stress management model. I'll also offer exclusive, individual coaching on a limited basis (email or leave me a message on the message line if you're interested).

After you re-focus your mental energy, you can relax in the Good Life Spa, offering a wide range of beauty and body treatments. Or, take a dip in one of the freshwater swimming pools.

Sonesta Maho Beach is nestled on a 10-acre resort paradise overlooking Maho Bay and the Caribbean Sea on the south coast of St. Maarten, in the Netherlands Antilles.

It would be fantastic to have you join us at this uplifing, rejuvenating event. This "pearl" is a wonderful blessing for me because it supports the concept of attracting positive energy by sharing my vision for my practice with others. Might attending this event be a "pearl" for you in 2008?

If you want to learn more about JI Group (a network of talented professionals) and previous GLF events, check out their blog (they're sponsoring a contest to win a FREE event package). As always, if you have questions about my programs or coaching, leave a comment here or message on our message line. Take care and be well! :)

Can You Release Your "Shoulds?"

Happy Monday! I must admit that I'm cheating a bit by writing this post today -- it's the first day of my vacation. I should be relaxing. Or maybe not -- maybe my action fits well with the theme of this post: releasing your "shoulds." What am I talking about?

All the times you say to yourself: "I should have done ..." or "I shouldn't have done ..." Often, these self-talk statements lead to feelings of guilt and anxiety about a situation. And, by saying them, you can't change the situation (because we can't change the past -- try as hard as we might!). So, you've made yourself feel upset and stressed out.

What if, instead, you gave yourself permission to re-examine the situation and think of how you might do things differently in the future?

Last week, I had a conversation about this with Rebecca White, host of Heal Yourself Talk Radio. We talked about how “releasing the shoulds” can help you reduce guilt and manage your emotional responses to stress. We also discussed being more aware of your behavior patterns and recognizing their impact on your responses to stress. Our conversation is available for download from my Gcast podcast site and also accessible on Rebecca's website.

So, if I apply my approach to today -- I'm going to release my shoulds ("I should have worked longer last Friday and written this post then.") and accept that I'm blogging today. I will not feel guilty about sharing my experience with my blog community. I'd already made a mental note that I would wrap up a few loose biz ends today before embarking on my break. It's OK and I'm OK! :)