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! :)

I'm Speaking at MLK Celebration on January 30

I'm truly honored to be the keynote speaker at a celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. being held next Wednesday, January 30 at the Marriott in Bridgewater, NJ. The event is sponsored by the African Heritage Diversity Committee of HSBC Bank, USA.


The theme of the event is Share the Dream, Live the Reality -- Through Motivation, Leadership and Diversity.


In addition to being an opportunity to "practice what we preached" in our Public Speaking course for the OBT trainees, it's an exciting chance to reflect on how Dr. King's message is still relevant, thought-provoking and inspirational. If you're in the NY metro area, I'd be delighted if you can join us. Or, feel free to write or leave a comment on our message line about how Dr. King has helped you discover your competent advantage!

How Can You Recession-Proof Your Career?

Are we in a recession? I don't know -- I'm no economist. Many of you know I am a CNBC-junkie. And, there have been many guest experts debating this issue on air. What I do know is that we should be taking stock of how the "R-word" might impact our careers (and businesses, for my fellow entrepreneurs) in 2008 and beyond.

It seems to me that now would be a fine time to focus on the Know Your Market (KYM) principles of the Competent Advantage TM model. Why?

Staying on top of key trends and job forecasts in your industry will help you navigate your career if you want to make a change (or if a change becomes necessary as the market forces impact your current employer).

Do you know where are the growth opportunities within your industry? Are there pockets where companies make money regardless of a downturn in the economy? There has been some research on Careers with "Staying Power" -- there are likely suspects such as Healthcare and Internet-Based Services. Would you know how to leverage your skills and talents in these areas?

KYM also suggests that you understand how your current employer functions so that you can best prepare for internal shifts and adjustments. What do I mean? Do you know what your company does -- really? Do you understand how it makes money?

Sure, this would all be easier if you had a crystal ball and could see what lies ahead. I was asked at a recent seminar, "What should I do if I know my company plans to outsource aspects of my function?" While I would not want to underestimate the fear and other emotions that come with this realization, I would like to suggest that knowledge is power. The more you learn about your industry (e.g., growth opportunities) and your company (e.g., aspects that will be kept in-house) the better you can position yourself for the pending changes.

And, can you articulate how your strengths and contributions add value? I'll talk soon about how Creating a Buzz can be another recession-proof career strategy.

NEW Competent Advantage Message Line

Hello, I realize that you may not be a writer like me, and that you might prefer to ask questions or make comments verbally. Well, guess what? I've decided to launch the Competent Advantage TM Message Line.

You can use the Competent Advantage TM Message Line if you have:

• A question about something you've read here (or about something you've heard in one of our podcasts, teleclasses or seminars)
• A career or work-life challenge about which you'd like to gain some input or ideas
• A pearl or successful outcome that you're proud of and would like to share
• An idea for a future podcast, teleclass or seminar
• A useful source of information on career development or personal growth

Call (214) 615-6505, ext. 6717 and leave a message. I'll respond either via a post here in the community or via Gcast, on our Competent Advantage TM podcast channel.

I'm looking forward to hearing from YOU! :)

A String of Pearls for 2008

Happy New Year!
I've been agonizing a bit about what to write in this first post of 2008 ... partly because I'm alternating between writing a proposal and a capabilities presentation ... yes, I'm writing to you as my "study break!" ;-)

And, also because I felt like the first post had to be profound (you know, the coach has to share a big "A-HA!" to start off the year with a bang). I've also been wrestling with where to come down on the whole resolution thing. It's true that my coaching and training programs center around defining goals and priorities. However, we coaches know that sustainable growth comes from behavior changes that often result in small successes -- which when strung together can lead to fantastic transformations.

So, while your resolution may be to lose 25 pounds or get a new job in a given timeframe. A small, successful behavior change may be to replace your 4:00 pm candy bar with raisins or nuts -- and to do it daily so that it becomes one of your good eating habits. On the professional front, it might be to identify one new industry website or periodical -- and to read it on a weekly basis so that you stay informed about your target industry.

Neither action alone will get you to your end goal. However, when "strung together" with other good habits, you'll be surprised at the changes you'll see ... the first day the pants seem looser, or the first time you're noticed for sharing a relevant anecdote at a meeting or event.

I share this with you because I too have some medium and large goals I'd like to accomplish on the business and personal frontiers (this being an anniversary year and all). So, let's make a pact to focus on creating pearls of small successes that when strung together lead us on the way to our larger goals. What do you think?

Year-End Reflection & Outlook

Hope you're enjoying the holidays -- and perhaps getting some well-deserved R&R. December has proven to be unusually busy for us at InStep Consulting (which is a good thing!).

Christmas came a little early for us this year -- last Thursday, in fact. Our gift was the fantastic performance at the second Debate Day hosted by Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow at the Brooklyn Marriott. Once again, OBT trainees overwhelmed the audience with thoughtful, persuasive speeches on current topics such as the war in Iraq and bans on smoking in public places. Not to mention the compelling arguments presented by over 10 trainees about a fictitious negligence case in the Mock Trial portion of the event. It was so inspiring to see these youth overcome their fears and take pride in their efforts. I'm so glad we had the opportunity to help OBT incorporate public speaking into their job training curriculum.

The winter solstice (December 22) is often a time for introspection and reflection, as is the end of the year. It's particularly poignant to look back now, as 2008 will mark two related milestones -- 10 years of operating the business and 5 years of my full-time dedication to building the company. I never could have imagined back in 1998 some of the things we have accomplished, including the launch of this online community!

I believe we have developed tools and programs that align with our mission:

To help [YOU] use [your] knowledge and abilities to achieve GREAT things.

And, I'm looking forward to many more GREAT things in 2008, including the launch of our Tools page, which will enable you to purchase assessments and workbooks directly from the InStep website. Here's wishing you health, happiness and continued success in the New Year!

What Do You Want to Accomplish in 2008?

As we approach year-end, the buzz will soon move to discussions about New Year's resolutions. You know that, at InStep Consulting, we believe you will be more successful in achieving your goals if you:

1. Plan ahead
2. Create a roadmap
3. Find tools and resources to support you

To help you begin the process, we've created an online Personal & Professional Growth Survey. And, it's a win-win for both of us. Not only will it help you with goal-setting; it also will help me know what are your priorities. Then, I'll know what types of events, programs and tools to create or recommend in the coming year.

It will only take 5-8 minutes to complete; but, the return on your time investment could be significant!

NEW Podcast on Healthy Holiday Eating

Now that the year-end holiday season is underway, many of us may be concerned about keeping our fitness goals on track despite the many tempting treats we will encounter at company and association holiday parties, family dinners, gatherings with friends ... etc. You know what I'm talking about! :)

Well, last week, I recorded a podcast with Amy Rivera, a weight loss coach with Keystone Life Coaching. She is also a founding partner of BeWellLiving.com, an online resource for health and wellness. In this conversation, we talked about healthy holiday eating habits and tips to NOT offend your friends or family if their eating habits don’t coincide with yours.

Believe it or not, macaroni and cheese is one of my weaknesses. There is also a strong emotional-familial connection to that dish because it reminds me of my grandma. And, my choice to not eat meat (except fish) sometimes makes it hard to avoid overdoing it on carbs (mac/cheese, candied yams, stuffing, and/or rice). So, I will aim to practice a few of Amy's tips -- exercising before I go to Christmas dinner (pilates has become a near-habit) and eating slowly.

Listen to the podcast and let me know how you will eating healthy during the holidays!

For What are You MOST Thankful?

As we approach the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, I thought I'd engage us in reflection on the things for which we are most thankful.

I am most thankful for:

• My family ... and my close friends who have become family
• My health -- which enables me to do things I enjoy (including running my business)
• My circle of colleagues/trusted advisors who keep me inspired (even when things don't go as planned)
• My opportunities and challenges -- which help me to learn, grow and inspire others

... just to name a few things. How about you?

For what are YOU most thankful?

Spending time to reflect on and acknowledge the positive, helpful aspects and people of our lives can be a great way to reduce stress. It can remind us of our sources of support (both internal and external) for when we're dealing with difficult or challenging situations.

One of my colleagues shared a link to a great site to help you examine your attitude for gratitude: Women of Spirit Online. Please enjoy the site when you have a few moments to truly reflect on the questions that will appear in the introduction.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

"You're So Articulate" and Other Non-Compliments

Hey there -- it was very ironic that a colleague sent me a link to today's DiversityInc article containing reader feedback on less-than-favorable compliments they've received. I don't know -- call it the laws of attraction or whatever, but it was a bit weird to have received the link today. Why?

Perhaps it's because I recently had a conversation with a new acquaintance about his comment to me remarking that I was "so eloquent." Our post-comment dialogue was actually quite interesting as he realized that it wasn't the most flattering or informed remark (without much feedback from me). It's rare that people who make the remarks actually pick up on how they might be perceived as offensive.

Or, perhaps it's because I returned this week from a conference celebrating 35 Years of Women at Dartmouth -- which made me recall occasional reactions of bewilderment I've received from people when I've mentioned that I attended the College on the Hill in Hanover, NH. Similar to one of the article respondents: "You went to Dartmouth? WOW, that's GREAT!" It hasn't happened in a while, but it's funny how your mind can free-associate with a certain stimulus.

I recall that I had thought of blogging about these situations when the original article appeared in DiversityInc back in 2006. I must have gotten sidetracked -- or perhaps I chickened out, since it was before the advice I received at BlogHer about being bold online and tackling the sticky subjects.

What occurred to me then, and still does today, is that our response to one of these comments in a workplace setting can sometimes become a career decision -- especially if the commenter is someone who has power/authority over any aspect of our career. I'm sure I've typically fended them off with the right degree of sarcasm or wit. But, who's to say what the real impact might have been -- especially if I didn't choose to engage the person in a Courageous Conversation (per Tim Mulvaney) to expose the elephant in the room.

While I sometimes love to play devil's advocate and challenge people to stretch their views (an oft-undervalued luxury of a coach/consultant), I'm also aware of how challenging that can be -- especially for those of us in employee roles. So, what do you think?

Have you ever received one of these compliments? If so, how did you respond?

What are YOUR Strengths?

Last Saturday, I exhibited at the first annual Essex County Health & Wellness Expo held at the Paul Robeson Center of Rutgers University-Newark Campus. It was definitely a right people, right energy event -- especialy given that providers, speakers and participants alike resisted our urges to stay inside on that rainy morning. However, by the time the clouds broke in the afternoon, we had already lifted our spirits and convened to share thoughts on how we can each improve our mind-body-spirit connection.

I thought it would be relevant to share one of the affirmation activities we participated in -- especially given we have entered fourth-quarter, a time when some may be planning for your annual performance review. Take a moment to complete three simple phrases with positive ideas to affirm your strengths and abilities:

1. I AM ... [insert positive nouns and/or adjectives that describe you]
2. I CAN ... [insert your positive skills or abilities]
3. I WILL ... [insert positive activities or tasks you will do this week to help achieve your goals]

What did you think of? How did it make you feel?

This affirmation activity aligns well with the leverage your strengths component of the Competent Advantage TM program. Ironically, a career coaching video-tip I recorded for Employ.com is now available on their website. Visit: http://www.employ.com/assets_new_index/videos/Ellis_Strength.html for more ideas on how to position your strengths in a review meeting or interview.

Thank you to all who supported our Passionately PINK for the Cure team. You can still donate at: http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/Events/KomenTR?team_id=58260&pg=team&fr_id=1040

Are You a Savvy Online Networker?

Well, the fact that you're reading this blog means that you're savvy about gaining information from the web to benefit yourself or your career. But, how savvy are you about putting information about yourself onto the web to enhance your online presence?

Last week, I recorded a podcast with Diane Danielson, founder & CEO of Downtown Women's Club (DWC). Since it's launch in 1998, DWC has become a great online social network and in-person community (10+ US-regional chapters) for business and professional women.

Diane recently co-authored a book with Lindsey Pollak called The Savvy Gal's Guide to Online Networking -- Or What Jane Austen Would Do. She and I shared tips and ideas about online social networks ...

• Why we sometimes avoid using online social networks
• How to pick the best online networks for you
• How good "net-iquette" can improve your chances of making the right connections

Go to our Competent Advantage TM Gcast channel to listen or download the MP3!

PS -- it's not too late to support our Passionately PINK for the Cure team at: http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/Events/KomenTR?team_id=58260&pg=team&fr_id=1040

Reminder: Wear PINK for the Cause

Hey there! It's halfway through the month of October, and I wanted to share a quick, friendly reminder for you to consider supporting our Breast Cancer Awareness project by wearing PINK sometime this month.

For each day that you wear PINK, I'd ask that you donate at least $5.00 to our Passionately PINK for the Cure team. Our site for donations is (paste the entire URL): http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/Events/KomenTR?team_id=58260&pg=team&fr_id=1040

Since it was a bit cool here in New York last week, I was able to support by wearing my PINK pashmina scarf.

We're Helping Youth to Communicate Effectively

While October will be a month filled with exciting spa events and wellness activities, we're also involved with our leadership development programs.

On Tuesday, we kicked off another cycle of Public Speaking & Communication Skills training for youth at Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow. In April, we developed an interactive curriculum to help trainees present themselves professionally and effectively in workplace settings.

For the next 10-12 weeks, another group of OBT trainees (in Bushwick and Sunset Park, Brooklyn) will learn the essentials of effective communication to make themselves more competitive in today's job market. Once again, the PSC course will conclude with a Debate & Public Speaking event, during which trainees will demonstrate the skills they have acquired in the course.

Our facilitators stress the fact that mastering the art of public speaking at a young age is fantastic because it improves one's overall confidence. Of course, it takes a while for some to fully grasp that concept -- and get over the fear of public speaking.

So, this makes me wonder -- when did YOU overcome your fear of presenting or speaking in front of others? Or, is this an aspect of your development that you're still seeking to improve? Truth be told, I've always enjoyed public speaking (from high school Mock Trial team). Yet, I sometimes get butterflies just before major presentations. Usually, I'm able to channel that energy to help myself be "on" in the moment. What techniques work for you?

Upcoming Events on Google Calendar

I've been wondering whether or not there was an online calendar that I could easily incorporate into my blog to keep you informed of upcoming presentations, seminars and events. So, I decided today to do a Google search and there it was -- Google Calendar!

It was really easy to create and embed on the blog -- scroll down and look on the right side toolbar for UPCOMING EVENTS and the Google icon.

I've included tomorrow's Stress Awareness seminar I'll be conducting at Teachers College in conjunction with their Graduate Student Well-Being Week. Tomorrow is National Depression Screening Day. It's great that TC is being proactive about offering strategies to help students ease their stress and anxiety.

There's also registration information for our Take Back Your Time SPA ESCAPE on Wednesday, October 24, 6:30-10:00 PM at Body by Brooklyn.

Fitness Tips and Talkcast Recording Online

Hey there, I've just uploaded the recording from our Women's Health & Fitness Day Talkcast to our Competent Advantage TM podcast channel on Gcast. (Click on the Gcast icon on the right toolbar of this site)

The show was great -- when you listen, be sure to stay tuned (we didn't end after Rebecca's HYTR updates) because we got some great questions and audience interaction -- for example, have you ever tried "hot" yoga?

Some tips we discussed included:

1. Find a fitness activity you ENJOY -- you'll be much more likely to stay committed
2. Include walking into your daily routine -- to get your lunch, as part of your commute (to/from parking lot or public transportation), or with a local walking group
3. Use common household or office items/furniture for quick exercise breaks
4. Don't overdo it -- build up to longer cycles and/or faster pace routines
5. Discuss any changes or additions to your fitness routine with a qualified professional

In case you're interested in my fitness goals, I watched my pilates video this morning; and, I've signed up for a complimentary pilates mat class for tomorrow. I'm considering how I might do pilates in the morning and yoga at night ... not sure, but I'm making an effort. Thanks for helping to keep me on track! :)

Need Your Help: Wear PINK for a Cure!

Hi there, hope you had a FABULOUS weekend!

I'm writing to ask for your support of a worthy cause that has the potential to impact women around the globe. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month, I've created a Passionately PINK for the Cure team on behalf of my company, InStep Consulting. This can be a fun way to support research and education by the Komen Foundation -- especially if you are a fashionista! :)

All you have to do is pick one or more days during the month of October to wear PINK. For each day that you wear PINK, I'd ask that you donate at least $5.00 to our Passionately PINK for the Cure team.

Our site for donations is (paste the entire URL): http://www.komendonations.org/site/TR/Events/KomenTR?team_id=58260&pg=team&fr_id=1040 (or click on the icon on the right sidebar)

There are 31 days in October -- 31 chances to help find a cure! Thanks so much in advance!! :)
All my best, Colette

Commit to Your Fitness Goals TODAY at 2 PM EDT

There are less than two hours until our LIVE TALKCAST on Women's Health & Fitness at 2:00 PM EDT. So, I thought I'd share my fitness goals with you (only fair, right?).

1. Review both of the Pilates and Yoga videos I have at home to see which movements I prefer (within the next week)
2. Take advantage of the FREE 1-Hour personal training session I got at my last college alumni event (call to schedule within the next two weeks)
3. Commit to engaging in one or more of the above physical activities (within the next 30 days)

Wow, putting it down here on the blog really seals the commitment. Not only because this is a public space (i.e., you can check in to keep me honest); but, because it's the actual process of writing them down. To be honest, the videos have been on the shelf for a while. One even made it on top of the entertainment center (I thought maybe if it was within my eyesight ...). I pulled out the yoga mat and put it in my living room last week. Neither of those actions worked. You see? Like I've said before; even the coach needs some accountability!

So, tell me YOUR fitness goals -- post them here, or join the talkcast and either share in the chat room or call us:

Dial: (724) 444-7444, Enter: 30294 # (Talkcast ID), Enter: 1 # or your PIN

Rebecca and I can't wait to hear from you! :)

Tell Me Your Fitness Goals: Sept. 26 at 2 PM EDT

Hi everyone, sorry it's been a bit "silent" here on the blog. But, I've been planning some exciting fall wellness events. I'm not sure if it's the back-to-school rush or the desire to keep our summer glow, but fall is a great time to renew your commitment to your health. And, there are tons of health observances over the next few months to keep you motivated!

Wednesday, September 26 is National Women's Health & Fitness Day (NWHFD). Join thousands of other women who will be exploring new fitness options in recognition of NWHFD.

Want to learn some enjoyable ways to work physical activity into your daily routine? InStep Consulting and Heal Yourself Talk Radio are hosting a LIVE talk show at 2:00 PM EDT: Make Fitness YOUR Healthy Habit!

Join the Talkcast from your computer and listen as I talk with Rebecca White about how your eating and exercise patterns can affect your stress level and well-being. We'll be taking LIVE CALLS so you can share your success stories!
Dial: (724) 444-7444
Enter: 30294 # (Talkcast ID)
Enter: 1 # or your PIN

Even small increases in physical activity can lead to better health. Take this opportunity to begin or renew your commitment to fitness and an active lifestyle! BTW, we'll be doing jumping jacks while on the air! (just kidding) :) Join us on September 26 at 2:00 PM EDT!

Attract World Peace

I received a link to this site from a friend and I thought it would be a fitting post for today -- a day of Rememberance, Reflection and Recognition.

Hope that you can find a few moments to watch the Attract World Peace Video and share with others as you feel is appropriate. It's based on the Laws of Attraction, and suggests we might change our situation with our thoughts -- on a global scale.

Take care and be well ...