BE — an Encourager
Research shows that 77% of the messages we get every day are negative. Open the newspaper, listen to complaints, watch the news. Much of what occupies our minds is anything but uplifting.
Take heart and use heart. Be that person who finds ways to encourage others – every day. A pat on the back will do. A kind word is awesome. Giving someone a compliment could make their day. Think of ways you can be a VALUE GENERATOR. That simply means you have made someone feel more valued and everyone deserves that!
Who is a value generator in your life? Who is your mentor? Who believes in you during those times you don’t believe in yourself? If someone comes to mind – tell them.
BE — in the Moment
Time is either well spent or well squandered. So use it wisely. Be fully present with an employee. Stay focused on family when you are WITH family. Be present!
Oh how easy it is to be distracted. Cell phones, multi-tasking, interruptions. Be intentional about where you focus and for how long. Here are a few tips:
- Turn off your cell phone.
- Schedule family or friend time in the calendar.
- Keep work AT work.
What’s my latest focus? Using Fridays to have lunch with someone special. What’s your idea?
BE — in Control of the Controllables
We learned this concept from Steven Covey’s “Seven Habits” book series. Here’s the main message:
- If a situation calls for taking control (and you CAN) then by all means grab it by the horns and wrestle through it.
- If a situation may not be totally in your control (but you could influence the outcome) – certainly try.
- If something is totally out of your control and you can’t possibly influence the outcome – then let it go.
Let’s all revisit the Serenity Prayer:
“God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference
Valerie Sokolosky is a Master Personal Brand Strategist and expert thought leader in leadership presence and personal branding. A widely published author and founder of Valerie and Company, her executive coaching and training has helped companies large and small achieve their goals of increased productivity, profitability, and enhanced people skills.
