Have you ever had that moment, when you flashback to your childhood, and wonder how you became the person you are today? We begin our journey through life, if we are lucky, playing freely with friends and in nature, exploring, imagining, creating and discovering things in the world around us. We … [Read more...]
Are you curious?
I was raised with the statement curiosity killed the cat - were you? Are you curious? All humans and many non-human animal species are hard-wired to be curious (Panksepp, 1998). It's can be fun when a problem or a conflict is present, curiosity keeps us open to learning. Curiosity … [Read more...]
Why empathy matters in schools and businesses
Empathy – the 'E' is for exceptionally enterprising environments The world is waking up to the notion that the way we relate to each other at work, in our families and communities really does matter, which is good news for the increase of empathy in schools and business. Neuroscience has proven … [Read more...]
Leadership – How to attract followers
Leaders who radiate positive energy attract followers It's well known that leaders and in fact anyone who radiates a positive energy is likely to attract those who want to be around them and will be more successful in leadership roles. Apparently, Herb Kelleher who founded successful Southwest … [Read more...]
Choose a catchphrase!
As the new year dawns, I'm wondering if you might like to join me in choosing a catchphrase or quote, one that can support you in making the choices that you want during this new year. This is what I've decided to do. What's my motivation? More ease, rest, fun, balance and celebration! and so my … [Read more...]
Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world
Nelson Mandela showed that it is possible to make a difference in our world. I've had two encounters recently that caused me to reflect on the history of apartheid in South Africa. The first was that I felt moved by the content in some letters I found in my father's memorabilia. He was a Jazz … [Read more...]
The Voyage – Teamwork
Long ago a young boy was born to a couple, who loved him very much. Their desire was to raise him to be passionate about life. They lived in a small coastal village; in a cottage with flint walls and an array of flowers surrounding the front door. From the boy's bedroom, at the front of the … [Read more...]
Free up your flow
I open my computer today ready to start blogging and nothing comes, I am completely blank. This happens at times, even when I have the desire to write the words just don’t flow out. I contemplate some questions ask myself, why I write, what purpose it serves and who I’m writing for? My inner … [Read more...]
Why is empathy a vital competency for leaders?
Have you ever found yourself in situations at work that blur the lines of professional interaction with your colleagues? Some managers face the challenge of empathizing with upset colleagues but struggle to address their performance later on. During my leadership and management courses, … [Read more...]
Can you keep your head when all around you are losing theirs?
This morning, the words of the poem ‘IF’ by Rudyard Kipling fills my mind. Can you keep your head when all around you seem to be losing theirs and blaming you? If you're a parent or lead a project or organisation, I'm sure you will have experienced this at some time. Placing blame on others makes … [Read more...]