When everything fell apart in my career and personal life, I could no longer argue. My life was out of whack, I was out of balance and the world was screaming to me I needed to get it together.
ollowing the red balloon is one of the most dangerous things a founder can do. Red balloons are bright, moving and attractive. At first, the red balloon simply captures your attention. However, as you look and reflect, it will trigger curiosity and wonderment. You start to think and dream. Your mind wanders and you forget what you were doing. You stare intently at the red balloon. It’s fascinating and alluring. For some reason, they are just fun to have.
It was not easy! Often as a busy professional, leader and parent scheduling and taking time away felt like it was not worth it because it was so challenging to implement. At this moment, I knew it was worth the effort.
So then, what does “stay open to the sun” mean? This had been bothering me all day. I felt a bit silly not understanding but I wanted to know. It sounded like it had so much brilliance, potential, and power. I reluctantly returned to my colleague and asked what that meant and how I might do that.
It happens to everyone, even the supercharged energizer bunny. You just had a series of challenges and are in a funk, a bit depressed or just lack motivation. Your weekend was packed, you have been traveling, had company, extra responsibilities, pressing deadlines, a series of unexpected challenges, etc. Humans get exhausted. It just happens. It is your body telling you “I NEED RECHARGING!” Obviously, rest is ideal, but sometimes we are not sleeping well due to the stress, you have a reason you were not sleeping and have gotten as much as you can. So what can you do?
Each year, I learn about way more books then I am able to read. Personally, I try and take in as many books as I can on Executive Book Summary (www.summary.com) or Audible, but my stack of books still grows faster than I can read! Here is mine: Linchpin by Seth
Each year I learn about many books from clients and the industry that are top reads for business, growth, and development. It is fun to hear what my clients are reading and how they are applying and integrating them into their work and life. This year I have also been
Not only a great book but a great TED talk. If you have not watched Simon Sinek’s TED Talk on “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” – it is important to take 18 minutes to do that. It is fundamental to motivation for yourself and others. He talked specifically about business and business messages, however, it is core to humans and our brains. When we understand WHY and not just the WHAT and the HOW it changes our clarity, buy-in and motivation to join your quest, cause or mission. This concept not only applies to important topics such as organizational mission and message but day to day tasks and directives.
Life happens. Change happens. Low mojo happens! Don’t beat yourself up for the lack of motivation you might be experiencing. Sometimes we feel bad when we look at our long list or reflect on the thing we WANT to do when we just don’t have the energy or ambition. Sometimes
What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith came out several years ago but remains a great choice for any growing professional. If you feel you have hit a ceiling or lid in your career, have moved up the ladder or up the ranks done well and