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Category: Body Language

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Body Language Leadership

Mastering the Three Types of Communication for Effective Leadership

By Evan Hackel

Effective leaders know how to communicate. Yet effective communication is not as simple as it might seem. It involves not just the ability to convey messages, but also the skill to understand and interpret the messages of others.

Mastering three forms of communication can significantly enhance a leader’s ability to inspire, motivate, and guide their team.

The Three Types of Communication:

  1. Verbal Communication: Verbal communication is the use of words to share information. This includes not only the words we choose but also how we say them. Tone, pitch, and pace all play crucial roles in how our message is received. For leaders, verbal communication is essential in meetings, presentations, and one-on-one conversations. It is important to practice clear and concise speech to avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, being mindful of your tone can help convey the right emotions and intentions behind your words.
  2. Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal communication encompasses body language, facial expressions, and gestures. These non-verbal cues can often convey more than words alone. For instance, maintaining eye contact can show confidence and sincerity, while crossed arms might be interpreted as defensiveness or resistance. Leaders must be aware of their own body language and ensure it aligns with their verbal messages. This congruence between verbal and non-verbal communication helps build trust and credibility with team members.
  3. Written Communication: Written communication includes emails, reports, memos, and other written materials. It is a critical skill for leaders, as much of today’s business communication happens in written form. Effective written communication should be clear, concise, and free of errors. Proofreading is essential to avoid misunderstandings and to present a professional image. Additionally, understanding the appropriate tone and formality for different types of written communication can enhance its effectiveness.

Practical Tips

  1. Verbal Communication:
    • Practice speaking clearly and concisely.
    • Be mindful of your tone to ensure it matches your message.
    • Use active listening techniques to engage with your audience and show that you value their input.
  2. Non-Verbal Communication:
    • Be aware of your body language and ensure it supports your verbal messages.
    • Use facial expressions to convey empathy and understanding.
    • Maintain appropriate eye contact to build trust and rapport.
  3. Written Communication:
    • Write clearly and professionally, avoiding jargon and overly complex language.
    • Proofread all written materials to catch errors and ensure clarity.
    • Tailor your writing style to suit the audience and the context of the communication.

In Conclusion . . .

Mastering verbal, non-verbal, and written communication is essential for effective leadership. These skills enable leaders to convey their vision, build strong relationships, and foster a collaborative and productive work environment. By practicing and refining these communication techniques, leaders can enhance their ability to lead effectively and achieve their organizational goals. For more in-depth tips and strategies on mastering communication, consider exploring my new book Ingaging Leadership: The Ultimate Edition.

Categories
Body Language Personal Development

NLP Exposed: Dark Secrets Behind Mind Control Tactics

In this article, we’ll delve into the shadowy side of NLP, unmasking the dangers that lurk behind its promises. We’ll explore how these techniques can be used to control and manipulate and why you must recognize and guard against them. As a leader, your integrity is your greatest asset, and by the end of this piece, you’ll be equipped to lead with a clear mind and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices.

So buckle up because we’re about to expose the dark secrets behind mind control tactics that they don’t want you to know. Let’s dive into the unsettling truths of NLP and arm ourselves with the knowledge to navigate this controversial territory.

The Myth of Success

When it comes to NLP, the success stories are legendary. You’ve probably heard the tales: transforming lives, skyrocketing careers, and turning everyday Joes into charismatic leaders. But let’s peel back the curtain and laugh at the absurdity of some of these myths, shall we?

Myth #1: NLP is a Magic Bullet for Success

Cue the mystical music. Here’s the deal: NLP is often sold as the ultimate secret weapon that can solve all your problems instantly. Need to close a deal? Boom, NLP. Want to charm an audience? Bam, NLP. This myth is about as believable as a snake oil salesman promising eternal youth.

Reality Check: Success requires hard work, strategy, and, yes, a bit of luck. NLP might provide some useful techniques, but there’s no shortcut to the top. Thinking NLP alone will get you there is like believing a gym membership will get you fit while you sit on the couch eating donuts.

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” — Winston Churchill

Myth #2: NLP Can Make Anyone a Master Persuader

Imagine a world where every CEO could hypnotize their board with a flick of the wrist and a few well-chosen words. Sounds like something out of a bad sci-fi movie, right? Yet, this is precisely what some NLP proponents would have you believe.

Reality Check: Persuasion is an art form that takes years to master, and it’s rooted in authenticity and trust. If you think NLP alone can turn you into a silver-tongued devil, think again. Authenticity can’t be faked, no matter how many NLP tricks you have.

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” — C.S. Lewis

Myth #3: NLP is Scientifically Proven and Universally Effective

We’ve all seen those fancy charts and graphs purporting to show how NLP rewires your brain for success. They look convincing, don’t they? Well, as they say, there are lies, damned lies, and statistics.

Reality Check: The scientific community remains skeptical about NLP’s efficacy. Much of the evidence supporting NLP is anecdotal at best and dubious at worst. Believing in NLP’s universal effectiveness is like betting your company’s future on a horoscope—entertaining but unreliable.

“Your true success in life begins only when you make the commitment to become excellent at what you do.” — Brian Tracy

Myth #4: NLP is Purely Positive and Harmless

Here’s a real kicker: the idea that NLP is all sunshine and rainbows with no downside whatsoever. According to this myth, NLP is a feel-good, consequence-free path to personal and professional nirvana.

Reality Check: Like any powerful tool, NLP can be misused. It can be wielded to manipulate, deceive, and control. Those who fail to recognize this dark side risk becoming puppets to more unscrupulous practitioners. It’s like giving a toddler a chainsaw—what could go wrong?

“Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.” — Potter Stewart

Myth #5: Anyone Can Master NLP Instantly

Some NLP courses promise mastery in a weekend workshop. Just imagine: you walk in on Friday as an ordinary executive and strut out on Sunday as a mind-bending Jedi. Spoiler alert: reality doesn’t work that way.

Reality Check: Mastery of any skill takes time, practice, and dedication. Instant proficiency in NLP is a myth perpetuated by those looking to sell you a quick fix. It’s the business equivalent of expecting to become a concert pianist after one lesson.

“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” — Albert Einstein

By debunking these myths, we expose the fallacies and highlight the importance of understanding the true nature of NLP. As a leader, you must approach NLP with a critical mind and a healthy dose of skepticism. Recognize its potential benefits but remain vigilant about its darker applications. Remember, success is a journey, not a magic trick.

RAMS Framework Overview

Alright, let’s cut through the fluff and dive into something that works—the RAMS framework. While some folks are busy trying to sell you snake oil, we’ve got a solid, no-nonsense approach to high-performance coaching. RAMS stands for Results, Attitude, Mastery, and Systems. Let’s break it down and have some fun while we’re at it.

Results: The End Game

Results are king, right? In the world of CEOs and high-stakes decision-making, it’s all about what you deliver at the end of the day. Think of Results as your scoreboard—it’s not about how many times you swing the bat, but how many home runs you hit.

In the Context of NLP: Sure, NLP might promise quick wins, but where are the sustainable results? RAMS focuses on long-term achievements. It’s like comparing a sugar rush to a balanced diet—one gives you a quick high and a nasty crash, and the other sustains you for the long haul.

Picture NLP as that flashy diet pill everyone swears by, but RAMS is the personal trainer who gets you in shape—without the funky side effects.

Attitude: The Secret Sauce

Your mindset—or, as I like to call it, your mind state—is crucial. It’s the lens through which you view challenges and opportunities. We’re not talking about plastering a fake smile on your face but about cultivating a genuinely positive and resilient attitude.

In the context of NLP, NLP enthusiasts might tell you to “fake it till you make it,” but with RAMS, it’s about authentic transformation—no gimmicks, just real shifts in how you approach life and business.

NLP’s attitude advice is like putting lipstick on a pig. RAMS? We’re giving you a new breed of thoroughbred to run the race.

Mastery: The Continuous Climb

Mastery isn’t about being perfect; it’s about relentless improvement. It’s the commitment to improving daily, honing your skills, and expanding your knowledge.

In the Context of NLP: While NLP may offer shiny new tricks, RAMS is about deep, sustained learning. It’s like comparing a magic show to a lifetime of martial arts training. One dazzles momentarily; the other builds unshakable strength.

NLP is like buying a Swiss Army knife—you get a lot of little tools. RAMS is enrolling in ninja school—now, that’s mastery.

Systems: The Backbone of Success

Systems are the structures and processes that keep everything running smoothly. They’re the gears and cogs behind the scenes, ensuring that your efforts translate into consistent results.

In the Context of NLP: NLP often lacks a structured approach, leaning more on ad-hoc techniques. RAMS provides a robust framework that supports sustainable success. Think of it as the difference between a rickety shack and a well-engineered skyscraper.

NLP is like trying to build IKEA furniture without a manual, which is frustrating and prone to collapse. RAMS gives you the blueprint, the tools, and a hand if needed.

So, why RAMS? Because it’s not about quick fixes or smoke and mirrors. It’s about real, tangible, and sustainable growth. As a driven CEO, you need more than flashy techniques—a framework that delivers consistent, meaningful results. That’s RAMS for you: grounded, effective, and much more reliable than a bag of NLP tricks.

Real-Life Success Stories

Let’s bring this home with real-life tales of triumph, where the RAMS framework has turned ambitious dreams into tangible realities. These stories aren’t just about hitting goals and redefining what’s possible.

Case Study 1: Sarah, The Trailblazing Tech CEO

Background: Meet Sarah, a tech CEO grappling with rapid growth and a fragmented team. Her company had innovative products but lacked cohesive leadership. Enter RAMS.

Challenge: Sarah struggled to align her executive team and make strategic decisions that could keep pace with the company’s explosive growth. The typical quick-fix solutions and motivational seminars weren’t cutting it.

Transformation: With the RAMS framework, Sarah focused on:

  • Results: Setting clear, measurable objectives for her team.
  • Attitude: Cultivating a growth mindset across her organization.
  • Mastery: Implementing continuous learning programs.
  • Systems: Establishing robust operational processes.

Outcome: Within six months, Sarah’s company saw a 50% increase in productivity, a marked improvement in team cohesion, and a 30% uptick in revenue. Her leadership style evolved, making her a more confident and strategic thinker.

Relatable Hook: Imagine going from daily firefighting to leading with clarity and purpose. That’s the power of RAMS.

Case Study 2: Mike, The Manufacturing Maestro

Background: Mike was the CEO of a mid-sized manufacturing firm. Overwhelmed by the day-to-day operational grind, he could not focus on strategic growth. He felt stuck in a loop, unable to push his company to the next level.

Challenge: Delegation was a significant issue. Mike was involved in every detail, leaving him exhausted and unable to see the bigger picture.

Transformation: Through the RAMS framework, Mike learned to:

  • Results: Prioritize high-impact projects.
  • Attitude: Shift from a control mindset to a trust-based leadership approach.
  • Mastery: Invest in training his managers to take on more responsibility.
  • Systems: Streamline operations with efficient processes.

Outcome: In just a year, Mike’s firm expanded into new markets, increasing revenue by 40%. He also regained his work-life balance, finding time for his family and personal interests.

Think about transforming from a stressed-out manager to a visionary leader. That’s the RAMS effect.

Case Study 3: Emily, The Creative Visionary

Background: Emily, a creative director at a leading advertising agency, was brilliant but chaotic. Her team adored her vision but struggled with the lack of structure, leading to missed deadlines and burnout.

Challenge: Emily needed to harness her creativity within a structured framework to maintain the agency’s competitive edge without burning out her team.

Transformation: With RAMS, Emily embraced:

  • Results: Defining clear project milestones.
  • Attitude: Fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
  • Mastery: Balancing creative freedom with disciplined project management.
  • Systems: Implementing agile methodologies to improve workflow.

Outcome: The agency’s project completion rate improved by 60%, client satisfaction soared, and Emily’s team found a new sense of purpose and balance.

Imagine channeling your creative chaos into streamlined success. That’s the magic of RAMS.

These stories aren’t just inspiring—they prove that the RAMS framework can transform challenges into opportunities. Whether you’re a tech innovator, a manufacturing mogul, or a creative genius, RAMS offers a tailored approach to elevate your game. It’s not about temporary fixes; it’s about building a sustainable path to extraordinary success.

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” — Ronald Reagan

The Controversial Side of NLP

Alright, folks, it’s time to pull no punches and dive headfirst into the murky waters of NLP. Neuro-Linguistic Programming has been touted as a miracle tool for personal development and communication mastery, but let’s get real—it’s not all rainbows and unicorns. Here’s the bold, unvarnished truth about the dark side of NLP.

Mind Manipulation: The Puppet Master’s Toolkit

Let’s start with the obvious: NLP can be a powerful tool for manipulation. Techniques like anchoring, mirroring, and pacing are designed to influence others’ thoughts and behaviors subtly. In the hands of an ethical practitioner, these can be beneficial. But let’s face it: not everyone out there is playing fair.

Imagine giving a con artist a blueprint to your mind. That’s what unethical NLP practitioners can do—exploit your subconscious to get what they want. It’s the psychological equivalent of handing over your house keys to a burglar.

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” — Simon Sinek

Pseudoscience: The Flimsy Foundation

NLP proponents often cloak their techniques in scientific jargon, but much of NLP lacks empirical support. The scientific community remains skeptical mainly, with many studies debunking its effectiveness.

Believing in NLP’s grand promises is like investing in snake oil. You might feel good for a while, but there’s no solid foundation. It’s time to separate the hype from the hard facts.

Unethical Use in Business: The Corporate Snake Pit

In the business world, NLP can be a double-edged sword. Used ethically, it can improve communication and negotiation skills. However, in the wrong hands, it becomes a weapon for manipulation, coercing colleagues, clients, and competitors.

Picture this: your business partner is subtly steering every decision to benefit themselves, using NLP tricks. It’s not just unethical—it’s downright sinister. No one likes to think they’re being played, especially in high-stakes environments.

Psychological Harm: The Invisible Scars

NLP can also cause psychological harm. The techniques can be intense and, when misused, lead to emotional distress. Untrained or unethical practitioners might push individuals to confront past traumas without proper support, causing more harm than good.

Imagine reopening old wounds and being left to bleed. That’s what irresponsible NLP practices can do. It’s not just about “fixing” someone; it’s about ensuring their mental well-being.

The Cult of Personality: Guru Worship

The world of NLP is often littered with self-proclaimed gurus who promise the world but deliver little. These charismatic leaders can create a cult-like following, with followers hanging on their every word, often at great personal and financial expense.

Beware of the NLP messiah complex. These gurus are more interested in filling their coffers than helping you grow. It’s high time we called out this snake oil salesmanship for what it is.

Transparency and ethics are non-negotiable in high-performance coaching and personal development. This is where RAMS by Baz stands apart. Our framework is built on authenticity, measurable results, and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices.

So, as you navigate the seductive allure of NLP, keep your wits about you. Recognize its potential for manipulation, question its scientific validity, and demand ethical integrity. The real path to success isn’t through shortcuts and psychological tricks—it’s through genuine growth, continuous learning, and steadfast ethical practices.

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Actionable Steps for the Reader

Alright, now that we’ve peeled back the layers on NLP and highlighted the RAMS framework, it’s time to arm you with practical, actionable steps. These will help you navigate the murky waters of NLP, enhance your leadership skills, and build a more ethical and effective approach to personal and professional growth.

  1. Educate Yourself on NLP Techniques

Action: Spend time understanding the common NLP techniques like anchoring, mirroring, and pacing. Know what they are and how they are used.

Think of it as learning the magician’s tricks so you won’t be amazed by smoke and mirrors. Knowledge is your first line of defense.

“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” — Albert Einstein

  1. Identify Manipulative Behavior

Action: Look for signs of manipulation. If someone’s communication feels overly rehearsed or if you feel unusually influenced by their words, you might be dealing with NLP tactics.

It’s like spotting a sales pitch a mile away—you won’t be easily swayed once you know the signs.

  1. Cultivate a Growth Mind State

Action: Focus on developing a genuine positive attitude. Use affirmations, mindfulness, and reflection to maintain a resilient and growth-oriented mind state.

It’s not about faking it till you make it; it’s about genuinely believing in your ability to grow and succeed. Authenticity is your superpower.

  1. Build Robust Systems

Action: Implement structured processes in your personal and professional life. Use tools and frameworks that support your goals and ensure consistent progress.

Think of it as setting up a solid foundation for your house—without it, everything else crumbles.

  1. Engage in Continuous Learning

Action: Dedicate time each week to learning and self-improvement. This could be through reading, online courses, or leadership and personal development workshops.

Lifelong learning isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the secret sauce to staying ahead of the curve. Stay curious and keep evolving.

  1. Foster Ethical Leadership

Action: Commit to ethical leadership practices. Be transparent, build trust, and prioritize your team’s and stakeholders’ well-being.

Lead like you would want to be led. Ethical leadership isn’t just good practice—it’s good business.

“Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.” — Potter Stewart

  1. Leverage the RAMS Framework

Action: Apply the RAMS framework to your leadership approach. Focus on Results, maintain a positive attitude, strive for Mastery, and build effective Systems.

Relatable Hook: RAMS isn’t just a framework; it’s a game-changer. Think of it as your secret weapon for achieving sustained success.

By taking these actionable steps, you’re not just protecting yourself from the potential pitfalls of NLP—you’re actively enhancing your leadership capabilities and setting yourself up for long-term success. Remember, the key to true growth and success lies in continuous improvement, ethical practices, and a genuine commitment to your personal and professional development.

Conclusion

As we’ve navigated the dark and twisty alleys of NLP, it’s clear that while it promises much, it also conceals many potential pitfalls. From the potential for manipulation to the lack of solid scientific backing, the dark side of NLP is a reality that savvy leaders like you must recognize and navigate.

But here’s the good news: you’re not alone in this journey. With the RAMS framework—focusing on Results, Attitude, Mastery, and Systems—you have a robust, ethical, and proven alternative to achieve your leadership goals and personal growth. It’s about genuine transformation, not just quick fixes. It’s about building a legacy of integrity, continuous improvement, and sustainable success.

So, as you reflect on the insights shared in this article, ask yourself: Are you ready to elevate your leadership to the next level? Are you prepared to embrace a framework that promises success and sustained excellence?

Call to Action: The Adventure Call

Your journey toward extraordinary leadership and unmatched personal growth starts with a single step.

Join the visionary leaders who have transformed their lives and businesses with RAMS by Baz.

Leap today. Schedule your personalized business consultation—The Adventure Call.

Click here to embark on your adventure. Together, we’ll map out a strategy tailored to your unique challenges and aspirations, ensuring you meet and exceed your goals.

Don’t settle for mediocrity. Dare to be exceptional. Your legacy begins now.

Categories
Advice Body Language Branding Capital Strategy Women In Business

How to Look Good on a Budget: Recession-Proofing Your Appearance

When times are tough, it’s easy to let our appearance slide. After all, who has the time or money to invest in expensive clothes and grooming products? However, caring about your appearance, especially when money is tight, can have a big impact on your personal and professional success. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for recession-proofing your look and enhancing your personal style, even on a budget.

 

Invest in high-quality basics

When it comes to building a wardrobe on a budget, it’s important to focus on high-quality basics that will stand the test of time. These might include items like a well-fitted blazer, classic jeans (a dark wash is always best), and versatile shoes. While these items may require a higher upfront cost, they will pay off in the long run by lasting for years and allowing you to mix and match them with different outfits. You should spend 80% of your wardrobe budget on your basics.

 

Accessorize strategically

Accessories are a budget-friendly way to add interest and style to your outfits. Look for accessories like scarves, pocket squares, jewelry, belts, and hats that can be used to change up your look without breaking the bank. By adding a pop of color or texture to your outfit with a well-chosen accessory, you can elevate your style and create a more polished and put-together look.

 

Prioritize fit

One of the most important factors in looking good on a budget is finding clothes that fit well. Clothes that are too big or too small can make you look sloppy and unprofessional, while clothes that fit well can enhance your best features and make you look more polished and put-together. Look for clothes that flatter your body shape and accentuate your best features, and don’t be afraid to have them tailored if needed. This is the number one mistake that can cheapen your look if you don’t pay attention to it.

 

Focus on grooming

Good grooming habits can go a long way in enhancing your appearance and making you feel more confident. This includes basics like regular haircuts, good hygiene, and clean nails. If you wear makeup, focus on simple, natural looks that enhance your features without breaking the bank. By taking care of your grooming needs and presenting a clean, polished appearance, you can feel more confident and put-together, even on a tight budget.

 

Care about your appearance

Finally, it’s important to care about your appearance, even when money is tight. How you present yourself can have a big impact on how others perceive you and the opportunities that come your way. By taking care of your appearance and presenting yourself in a professional and polished manner, you can position yourself for success even during tough economic times. Remember, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to look and feel your best. With a little creativity and effort, you can recession-proof your look and enhance your personal style, even on a budget.

 

In conclusion, recession-proofing your look requires a combination of strategic shopping, good grooming habits, and a commitment to presenting yourself in the best possible light. By investing in high-quality basics, accessorizing strategically, prioritizing fit, focusing on grooming, and caring about your appearance, you can look and feel your best even on a tight budget. So go ahead and rock that budget-friendly outfit with confidence, knowing that you’re presenting your best self to the world.

 

If you’re looking for expert guidance on how to recession-proof your personal brand and enhance your appearance, consider working with Sheila Anderson, The Image DesignerÔ. With years of experience in the branding and image consulting industry, Sheila can provide personalized advice and strategies for success that align with your unique goals and budget.

 

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or corporate professional, building a strong personal brand and enhancing your appearance can help you stand out from the competition and position yourself for success, even during tough economic times. So don’t wait – contact Sheila Anderson today to learn more about how she can help you recession-proof your personal brand and take your career or business to the next level.

Categories
Advice Body Language Growth Management

THE ART OF CONCENTRATION: HOW TO DEEPEN YOUR FOCUS AND ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS

Low productivity is a focus problem.

If you keep feeding your distractions, you can’t make real progress. If you are trapped in a wealth of online distractions, you must start thinking about a different approach to work.

Focus, a valuable commodity for getting real work done, is increasingly becoming a lost art.

If you’re trying to be more productive, don’t analyze how you spend your time. Pay attention to what consumes your attention.

If how you work is not working, design a different system that makes progress possible every day, increasing efficiency and output.

Your present life and career total everything you’ve focused on. If you are unhappy with your productive life, change the system that drives it.

New tools and technology are meant to help us work better, faster, and more intelligently, but they often distract us.

Many productivity apps are meant to improve our lives, but they get in the way of deep and accurate work.

You can’t stop responding to those notifications. The zero-email mindset is a productivity trap that keeps you constantly responding to emails.

How can you get real work done when you can’t stop reacting to almost every notification?

“Feed a cold and starve a fever.

To gain productivity, feed your focus and starve your distractions.”

“It’s not that I’m so smart; it’s just that I stay with problems longer.” Albert Einstein once said.

Many people have a real plan to get important stuff done — they are not necessarily lazy and don’t know how to stop feeding their distractions.

Attention distraction is one of the biggest obstacles to getting real done. “Focus is the art of knowing what to ignore.

People who cultivate their ability to concentrate without distraction will thrive:

To feed your focus, start separating your urgent work from essential tasks. And most importantly, identify your distractions and how they starve your focus. Knowing your distractions can help you understand how you spend your attention.

For every focused work you want to do, identify the potential distractions, and stop them before you get in the focus zone.

Deep workers often find that notifications, no matter how important the message, takes their deep focus away from the task, and it takes twice as long to get back to focus mode again.

To produce at your peak level, you need to work for extended periods with total concentration on a single task free from distraction. 

To feed your focus, create healthy work boundaries that allow you to concentrate on essential tasks fully. Build a system that starves distractions. Create intentional constraints that will enable you to assume focus mode.

When you’re ‘on,’ be entirely on — use headphones, and when possible, hide your phone, turn it upside down, or block notifications. Block internal and external distractions.

The ability to focus for about 30/40/60 minutes is the only difference between truly productive people and those who struggle to get things done.

Measure your work and find the most suitable focused time that works for you. Your degree of focus determines how fast you make progress.

Structure your day in chunks of focused work to make in-depth work sessions work. Start your day with intention. What is the one thing you have to accomplish today? Start your focused sessions with that task.

Set up your environment to support your focus mode. And plan purposeful breaks in-between deep work sessions. (Pomodoro method)

One final insight about prioritizing involves getting disciplined about what you don’t put on the stage. This means not thinking when you don’t have to, becoming disciplined about not paying attention to non-urgent tasks unless, or until, it’s genuinely essential that you do,

Deep work is a habit and working for long stretches at a time takes time to develop. You can start today. Do more focused work daily, and it will become a habit that helps you get real work done weekly. Better routines are the personal habits of highly efficient people.

What do you do to become more productive?

 

For more Healthy Money Tips Listen to our PodCast “Money 911”

Meet with Kris Miller – Financial Fitness Strategy Sessions

https://healthymoneyhappylife.com/

Kris@HealthyMoneyHappyLIfe.com

(951) 926-4158

Categories
Body Language Branding Capital Networking Sales

EMPOWER YOUR WORKFORCE: PROMOTE INFORMED FINANCIAL DECISIONS, SAVING HABITS, AND WORKPLACE EDUCATION

Many people may lack the basic math skills and financial know-how to make decisions. One of my favorite books, which I reread from time to time, is the 1988 book Innumeracy by John Paulos; he coined the book’s title from people being slow in math as compared to illiterate. Math and money are very different, and learning the differences is crucial to building wealth securely.

Even though many adults across generations were functioning with medium levels of financial literacy, too many workers today possess low levels of Personal Financial Proficiency (PFP) and have difficulty applying financial decision-making skills to real-life situations.   

Here are a few general questions about everyday financial situations that stumped so many:

  • Determining wages and take-home pay, 
  • Questions about investment types, risk, and return, 
  • Understanding specific risk economic outcomes risk
  • Understanding that 401(k) are not pensions

This is where Americans exhibit the lowest scores, with less than one-third answering correctly.

Lack of financial understanding affects all ages and socioeconomic levels. The result is those who fall into the limited PFP category, even though financially literate, may not manage their financial resources effectively and may feel intimidated by retirement, budgeting, tax planning, and Social Security topics.

One way to help everyone become more confident about their personal finances is by building a solid foundation with Financial Proficiency. 

Financial literacy dark secret

People with higher levels of financial literacy “fluency bias.” are more likely to build weak foundations to support their financial houses. Sadly, in this case, a little knowledge is dangerous and prevents many from developing a strategy that works and won’t leave you in a pickle as you get to retirement age.

For more Healthy Money Tips Listen to our PodCast “Money 911”

Sign up for a Financial Fitness Strategy Session:  Meet with Kris Miller – Financial Fitness Strategy Sessions

You can reach me at Kris@HealthyMoneyHappyLIfe.com, (951) 926-4158

 

Categories
Body Language Parenting Skills Women In Business

Compassionate Communication: A Primer on Conscious Parenting Language

With President’s Weekend in my home country, the United States, upon us, I wanted to touch on communication. Whether you’re leading a household or a country, great leadership stems from great communication.

There’s a verse in the Bible that states, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” This proverb encapsulates what we already know to be true: words hold a lot of weight. What we say—and how we say it—can have an enormous effect on those around us.

At the Conscious Parenting Revolution, one of our core teachings is effective and compassionate communication. We repair family relationships by teaching parents and children methods and tools for listening with love and speaking from the heart.

Our conscious parenting vocabulary revolves around supportive communication. The goal of this approach is to build others up and never tear them down no matter what situation you find yourself in—calm or stressful, charged or joyful.

If you often find yourself at a loss for words when communicating with your children, here is some basic conscious parenting language to use for effective, life-giving communication.

Compassionate Communication: A Primer on Conscious Parenting Language

Situation: You’re caught in an argument or a tense circumstance

CPR Language: Instead of “You always” or “You never,” say “It seems/feels.” 

When you find yourself at what could be the start of a heated argument with your child, take a moment to step back and reframe what you’re about to say.

Instead of the usual accusatory, “You never clean your room,” try something less aggressive like, “It seems that you’re having a hard time keeping your room tidy.”

Words like “never” and “always” put your child in defensive mode, which could result in them shutting you out. Rephrase your words so your kid feels encouraged to open up and tell you the true root of the problem.

Situation: A celebratory occasion, such as your child receiving high grades at school

CPR Language: Instead of, “You’re so smart,” say, “Congratulations! I admire how hard you worked on that!” 

One of the communication methods we teach is using acknowledgement instead of praise.

Praising a child for their intelligence or outward appearance teaches them to measure their self-worth based on superficial traits and external factors.

Acknowledgement, on the other hand, allows a child to connect to their own sense of accomplishment. It helps them become self-aware of their competencies and tap into how they feel about themselves. 

Situation: Your child exhibited bad behavior

CPR Language: Instead of, “As punishment you’ll…,” say, “Can you tell me what made you act/react in this way?”

Simply punishing bad behavior never addresses the root of the problem. Rather than resorting to punishment, ask your child why they acted a certain way.

Was there a misunderstanding? Did they feel unheard, unseen, hungry, sad, or some other negative emotion? Once your child explains what caused their behavior, work on finding a solution together.

Situation: Describing your kid’s behavior

CPR Language: Instead of, “You’re a mess,” say, “You made a mess.”

There’s a big difference between telling your child their behavior was irresponsible and making them feel like they are irresponsible.

Your words have a major impact on your children! So use non-blameful descriptions of their behavior and avoid labeling them in a negative way that can undermine their self-confidence or self-love.

Situation: You lost your temper/lashed out/made a mistake

CPR Language: “I’m sorry.”

Traditional parenting says that parents should never apologize to their children. But our kids are human, too, and they deserve an apology when we’re in the wrong.

Saying the words, “I’m sorry,” lets your kid know that their parent is, in fact, human. It also sets you both on a path of mending and healing.

Words have the power to bring comfort and devastation, joy and pain. Let’s do our best to communicate with our children with the love and compassion they deserve.

Love and Blessings,

Katherine

P.S. Want a chance to practice your new Conscious Parenting vocabulary? Join our private Facebook group to connect with like-minded parents around the world. We run live impromptu Tips for Parents in that private facebook group, join and request to be alerted when we go live and you can ask your individual questions.

 

 

Categories
Body Language Growth Leadership Negotiations Parenting

Are You Listening to Your Child’s Side of the Story?

Stop me if this scenario sounds familiar:

You’re minding your own business when suddenly the phone rings.

The person on the other end of the line—perhaps a teacher or a camp counselor—has called to inform you that your child is acting out.

Your face flushes with shame and humiliation and embarrassment. You assume their account must be accurate.

When our children display inappropriate behavior in public (getting into a fight at soccer practice or throwing a toy at a daycare teacher), our first impulse is often to apologize on their behalf, then shamefully slink away to reprimand or punish them at home.

How often do you stop and ask for your child’s side of the story?

Anger and Shame Prevent Parents from Listening to Their Kids

I remember a time when I was on my way to my daughter Pia’s Girl Scout camp.

There had been a fight with another girl in which Pia allegedly shoved her. To punish Pia, the camp counselor put her in “detention” in one of the cottages.

I drove to the campground upset and concerned.

I know my daughter, and she doesn’t just push people out of nowhere.

What was Pia’s unheard side of the story? How was she managing her feelings about being isolated, made to think she was the “bad one”?

I wondered what could have been the catalyst in order for this response to be evoked.

As soon as I saw Pia, upset and sitting alone, I knew my gut feeling had been spot on.

When I asked  “Honey, what happened?” between her tears she said, “I just want to go, I just want to go!”

Even though she just wanted to get out of there, I knew that if we did, she would leave with her tail between her legs.

Her side of the story would never be acknowledged or understood,  At such a young age, she would already begin to develop a bad reputation.

This is when I used what we call the protective use of force.

I said, “I won’t let you develop a negative reputation, and I know your side of the situation and your perspective has not been heard or understood. I will take you home, but we can’t leave until your side is understood too.”

“Mom, she was bullying me and calling me names in front of all the other girls. I was so embarrassed and humiliated, and I asked her over and over again to stop calling me names. But she wouldn’t stop bullying me!” Pia explained between her big sobs.

“I didn’t know what else to do and so I swung my arm out and said stop it! Then I was the one who got in trouble!!” My daughter sobbed and sobbed. She was so confused about what she should have done when someone was bullying her.

You can imagine what happened next.

I talked to the camp counselor (who didn’t think of asking my daughter her side of the story!) and facilitated a reconciliation between the two girls.

Needless to say, Pia didn’t need to be put into detention.

I learned a valuable life lesson that day: there are two sides to every story.

If I had barged into the scene angry and humiliated, Pia would have felt attacked and more misunderstood and she wouldn’t have trusted me enough to tell me what really happened.

That’s not to say that every time your child does something “wrong” it will be a misunderstanding or an honest mistake.

But there will be an unmet need causing their behavior.

If you can get their side of the story, you’ll find ways to resolve the situation and move forward.

As parents, it’s our duty to put aside our own feelings of shame about what other people might think and always, always listen to our children.

Love and Blessings,

Katherine

P.S. The wise Brené Brown says “shame cannot survive being spoken.” If you’ve got shame or guilt you need to unburden, check out our private Facebook group to find a safe environment of other parents ready to support you.

Categories
Body Language

Why Being Your Child’s Best Friend Doesn’t Work

Has your home turned into a warzone? For many parents, after a long year of being stuck indoors—sharing the same space for work, school, home, and recreation—the pressure may have built to a boiling point. Add in the normal worry and stress many families feel on a day-to-day basis, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

When a disagreement hits the boiling point, things get ugly. There’s screaming, crying, swearing . . . and that’s just the parents. And after it’s all over, we often feel ashamed and regretful. It’s only then that we remember we’re supposed to be the adults in the room.

That “out of control” feeling isn’t your fault. In the moment, when your child’s just done something that drives you nuts, your emotions get the best of you. But when you’re running hot, you don’t act like the parent you want to be. And that’s because you may not have the right tools to be able to respond instead of react.

First, take a breath. Find some compassion for yourself, and forgive yourself for that behavior you’re not proud of. None of us are perfect. When you show kindness to yourself, you model that kindness for your children, too.

Then, follow this 3-Step ACTion Plan next time you find a discussion going south. It can help you prevent a difficult situation from accelerating into a full-fledged meltdown.

1. Acknowledge your kid’s feelings and needs.

Children often have a hard time naming the emotions that they’re feeling. Ask them leading and compassionate questions. If your kids are fighting over a toy, for example, ask: “Are you feeling angry that your sister took your toy without permission?” Their answer will help you understand their response and give clues about how to remedy the situation.

2. Communicate.
Once you validate their feelings and identify the unmet needs that drive the feeling, check in with them to be sure they feel understood before switching to wanting to share your perspective and expecting them to hear you. Failing to do this may result in them tuning you out!  We all want to turn it into a teachable moment and explain why certain behaviors are not acceptable with more depth than “Because I said so.” Knowing that the teachable moment is NOT at the time of the issue is VERY important. It is okay to explain to your child that hitting their sibling is hurtful and doesn’t fix the problem of the swiped toy—or resolve the anger they’re feeling.  AND you get that it would really help them to practice some skills before these kinds of flashpoints occur so that there is more choice for them to respond differently. My experience is that the key is to teach the skills for self-regulation in heated situations more than lecturing them; most kids know already that hitting isn’t okay. The issue is more about tools for impulse control when they are experiencing high emotion.

3. Target another option.

Ask your child to help identify a solution to the problem at hand. Maybe your children can agree to take turns sharing a favorite toy. If you catch your teenager sneaking out to meet their friends, maybe you help them find a safe space for a socially distant hangout instead of sending them straight to their room. The goal is to build your child’s ability to objectively problem-solve and to let them know that the two of you are on the same team. Solo problem-solving is rarely effective. Collaboration sets the tone for your child to feel that you’re invested in them meeting their needs and want to find a solution that meets your needs too—but not at their expense of getting to meet theirs.

Learning to defuse disagreements is challenging, and it requires commitment and effort to overcome your own emotional response. But the 3-Step ACTion plan can help both parents and children learn to treat each other with love and respect.

If you’re looking for more tips on maintaining a peaceful household, download my free ebook, 7 Strategies to Keep Your Relationship with Your Kids From Hitting the Boiling Point.

Love and Blessings,

Katherine

P.S. Check out Conscious Parenting Revolution on Daytime NBC WFLA where we discuss the guidance approach to parenting!

 

Categories
Body Language Growth Leadership Management

Staying Positive Amid Adversity

Man pulling the curtain up to a new colorful world. Power to make a change for the better

Increasing inflation, higher interest rates, decreased investment, and interruptions brought on by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are all factors why the World Bank said in its most recent Global Economic Prospects that the world economy is currently contracting severely.

If you add in any additional negative incident, such as higher-than-expected inflation rate, abrupt increases in interest rates (to manage inflation), a possible resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, or growing geopolitical tensions, it might send the world economy into recession, given the already precarious economic conditions. This is the first time that two worldwide recessions occurred within the same decade!

Here in the US, the economy is predicted to slow down even further and suffer a minor recession. According to an economic forecast by JP Morgan, the US economy is anticipated to have a modest 0.5-1% real GDP growth rate in 2023, taking into account the possibility of a light recession starting in the latter half of the year. From 1.5-2% in 2022, 6% in 2021, and the longer-term average annual growth rate of 1.8%, this would represent a further slowdown in growth. However, is this just a lead-in to a more aggressive recession expected in early 2024?

All these numbers may sound confusing, but to make things short, we’re in for some tough times ahead. It’s one of those times when we have to tighten our proverbial belts and steel ourselves for some adversity and some uncomfortable change.

If there’s anything the recent pandemic has taught us is that change can happen slowly at first and then suddenly come crashing all at once. To survive, we often hear from others to “stay positive”—but what does this even mean? Does this simply mean embracing a positive, more hopeful outlook? Or do you have to have a concrete plan to bring those positive thoughts into reality?

We offer a slightly different perspective.

We struggle in the face of adversity not because we lack positivity but because we are unable to handle negativity. They’re not the same at all.

Positive thinking has been lauded for a good reason countless times. According to studies, it has a direct correlation with health, lifespan, and a higher standard of living. There is no question about that. Positive thinking is important, but it’s not enough to help you change the circumstance you’re in.

As explained by Kazimierz Dbrowski’s theory of positive disintegration, changing one’s self-concept is the only way for humans to progress. A person can be compelled to modify their self-concept if their current self-concept cannot handle or does not fit their current circumstances.

Think about your life—you may recall that every instance of severe suffering and agony, most often than not, is followed by unprecedented personal growth. The majority of successful people who experienced difficulty used the same as a catalyst in their lives at some point. They grew because they could no longer function in the same way. In short, they learned to adapt. They transformed not because of their surroundings, not because of society, but because their internal needs and wants can no longer be fulfilled by their past selves.

So how do we go about transforming ourselves?

According to Dąbrowski, self-concept reformation involves three phases, or levels, of development:

  1. You have to learn to adapt to your impulses and surroundings. People are influenced by their impulses or their social environments. This is known as primitive or primary People rely on cultural, social, and even religious influences to create a picture of how the world works. The people who remain at this level their entire lives have the most trouble becoming self-reliant, independent, and generally moving up in life.
  2. Once you realize that most of what you believe in is “borrowed” from others, you set out on a journey of self-discovery. You begin to explore your intrinsic desires. Eventually, you’ll realize that you are either going to progress or digress. Dąbrowski explains that you begin to ask yourself whether to “follow your instincts (first factor), your teachings (second factor), or your heart (third factor)”? For example, you may begin to reform and transform your lower-level instincts, like anger or aggression, into positive motivation, empathy, and understanding.
  3. You begin to form a worldview that’s based on your own beliefs. This is the stage where people that shift into higher thinking begin to see that the events of their lives are related to their mindset and response systems. Once this is understood, it becomes “impossible” to revert to lower levels of thinking. Once you see how much control you have over your life, you can’t unsee it.

What we can learn from this

Introspection, thinking about what we have gone through, and looking back at our past can sometimes paralyze forward motion, BUT, at times, looking back is a catalyst for moving ahead.

One of the important lessons we can take from looking back is the realization that we are not the first, or only ones, to encounter difficult circumstances.

Another lesson we can pick up from looking into our past is that even if you were not lucky enough to have a rosy heritage—even if you have suffered abuse, absence, addiction, anger, or disinterest, you can use these experiences to break negative patterns and establish new priorities.

Conclusion

Positive thinking is more than just being hopeful. It entails discovering what your catalyst would be to help you weather any adversity and help you move forward. This means you have to deal with a lot of discomfort—rather than trying to cultivate more comfort. Positive thinking means that you start to view your struggles not as a judgment of your status in life but rather as a cue that positive change needs to occur. Instead of trying to avoid intense feelings and call them a solution, we can listen to those feelings and consider them messengers, even purveyors of change.

To know more about positive thinking and what the upcoming recession means for business, tune into Charged Up Studio, the podcast, on February 7th to hear economist, Bill Conerly, talk about what we can expect in 2023.

Categories
Body Language Growth Parenting

We Celebrate Black History month

February is Black History Month and we want to take this opportunity to highlight, honor and celebrate a few of the incredible contributions the Black community has made to science, the arts, politics and social justice.

Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, all three demonstrated the power to change society with non-violent conflict resolution. The lives they led continue to inspire ours and shed light on the way forward.

Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, these three brilliant women who were depicted in the film Hidden Figures were major contributors to the US historic launch of John Glen into orbit.

Last year, the nation inaugurated its first Black vice president, a woman who previously held important roles as a former district attorney of San Francisco, as well as attorney general and a junior US Senator from California.

And at the inauguration of the President of the US, twenty-two year old Amanda Gorman recited her poem The Hill We Climb making her the youngest inaugural poet ever! The poem was a call for “unity and collaboration and togetherness” among the American people. It took my breath away and I offer you her poise, words of promise and hope and encouragement with this link to her inspirational address.

I was born in New Orleans, La. in the heart of the deep south and in the middle of the civil rights movement.

I believe that before the country can move past racial harm there needs to be truth, accountability and hopefully reconciliation. We need to have the difficult conversations.

“There is always light.

  If only we’re brave enough to see it.

  If only we’re brave enough to be it.”

-Amanda Gorman 29 Dec 2021

Love and Blessings,

Katherine