A small group of professional women were sharing life stories at a local networking event. One woman’s story, combined with her matter-of-fact delivery, brought the conversation to a stunned silence:
Managing a career, children, and marriage was much harder than I thought it would be. Putting my education to work and getting ahead was important to me, and I didn’t want to let go of that goal. Something had to go, so I let it be my marriage.
Wow. (more…)
Several times over the last few months, I’ve either been a participant in, or observer to, situations in which an individual felt free to lash out with a personal attack when faced with a point of view they didn’t support. They went directly to the I am right and you are wrong space.
Their actions, comments, and responses certainly flew in the face of Aristotle’s debate counsel in Rhetoric that one must make one’s case without meanness. (more…)
Several years ago lightning struck and killed the tall pine tree in the small wooded area across the street from our home.
Today the tree still stands tall, its branches bare and bleached, a resting spot for eagles, cranes, and other waterfowl.
To my eyes, the tree is starkly beautiful and endlessly fascinating. Others in the neighborhood see it as a nuisance to be cut down. (more…)
Doctors take an oath. People get certified to be a coach. Politicians are sworn into office. I had to get a license before I could drive.
Certifications, licenses, and performance pledges aren’t uncommon for professions and activities where the responsibilities to be managed are large.
Being a leader involves large amounts of responsibility for both work and people—the ongoing paradox of managing both task and relationship. (more…)
Let’s talk about Give Local America and why giving is important.
In my first act of life, getting promoted and having the latest designer purse or shoes made me happy.
Until they didn’t anymore.
So now, in my second act of life, doing good, giving back, and learning make me happy. (And super good chocolate once in awhile.) (more…)
