As I reflect upon last year there have certainly been unexpected bumps in the road. On the other hand, there is always a lesson, should you be open to seeing it. I have spent the most part of this year becoming certified in Positive Intelligence Coaching, a tool to help refocus negative emotions, thoughts, and actions into gifts and opportunities all through a shift in your mindset and perspective... A common theme… awareness.
It starts with wanting and seeing a need for change and then identifying, or being aware and open to how we sabotage our success and neglect accountability. Tough and humbling work but incredible rewards await.
To let your guard down and admit the need for support and community in order to rise. The phrase “together we rise” is so true. Without a team or community, success is short-lived and unsustainable. This all begins with inner awareness.
I am reminded of the book, Hope for the Flowers, if you haven’t read it, please do. Essentially, a children's book with a beautiful query of what is success? What are we all fighting for at the end of the day? If these simple questions go unexamined we have missed the meaning of life. The process, the beauty, and the relationships.
The art of keeping intention and awareness at the forefront of your thinking will guide your actions and illuminate your thoughts. Asking “why?” Why am I responding this way? Why am I feeling this way? Why am I working so hard? Try to shift from the intellectual answer to a more heart-centered response. For example, “I work this hard because the title invalidates my insecurities”, or “I work long hours because I don’t believe anyone else can do the job as well as me.” I urge you to allow time for curiosity and introspection. There is no “right” or “wrong” just truth, and the truth is something you can work with!
Bring awareness to not only how you are approaching a situation, the body posture, and preconceived ideas, but being aware of how others may perceive you and your intentions. Taking time to consider these perspectives and allow time for conversation, exploration, and curiosity not only for the other person but for your own internal dialogue. Here is a great article, from Lingo Live, to share with your team for further discussion around cultural awareness and team communication.
My Challenge To You:
Take a moment and ask yourself to be honest, Why are you REALLY acting or responding this way? What is driving your “success”? Image, fear, money, insecurity, curiosity?
Finally, take time to breathe, be with the ones you love, and stay present to what is.
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