When my eldest child entered middle school, we discussed the ways our morning routine would change, including his need to wake up an hour earlier. The day before school started he said, “Mom, you don’t even need to get up tomorrow morning with me. I’ll make my own lunch.” He was cutting all ties. He had…
Courage
The Importance of Staying Professional After an Emotional Outburst
You’re a professional, right? Yep, that’s what I thought. Me too. One of the hallmarks of professionalism is emotional restraint; I pride myself on my ability to zip my lips when needed. But once in awhile, I experience a momentary lapse—times when exasperation or sarcasm gets the best of me and I say something I…
11 Ways to be a Giver at Work
In the New York Times bestselling book, Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success, author Adam Grant makes the case for being a “giver.” He writes, “Givers don’t wait for signs of potential. Because they tend to be trusting and optimistic about other people’s intentions, in their roles as leaders and mentors, givers…
How Shutting Up Can Make You a Thought Leader
Who do you consider to be influential thought-leaders in your organization? Is it the talkative people who contribute incessantly? No, these non-stop talkers probably don’t have your deep respect. More likely, it’s those who temper their talking and have a give-and-take approach to interpersonal communication. Those who can “read the room” and adjust when to…
How To Accept an Apology at Work
Has anyone ever said anything to you at work that was really hurtful or snarky? It’s an experience we can all relate to. Sometimes it’s an intentional slight or power-play. But here’s the thing. More often, it’s an unplanned quip and your colleague wishes they could take it back. There are a couple of different…