Open for Business? Prove it by Doing This.
Ever show up at work thinking you’ll just stay at your desk doing passive tasks (research, writing, planning, etc.) and then realize you actually have to show up as though you are OPEN for business? I just returned from a 10-day vacation and thought I had the whole day today to transition back into business. You .. read more
When’s the Last Time You Said, “Wow! I did that!”?
If you’re like many of us, you often say to yourself, “Why did I do that?” Shaking our head, we often regret actions performed impulsively, decisions made hastily or choosing not to do what is unfamiliar. Consequently, much of the time, we compare ourselves to others and see ourselves as less than admirable. This can .. read more
Regret being Wishy-Washy?
In the general public, a good (yes, they are good) 35% or more of us are peace-keepers, motivated to create calm. Looking out for the interest of others, we would rather avoid conflict than enter an anxious discussion, which leads us down a slippery slope. Let me explain why this is a problem: peace-keepers are .. read more
How to Speak Like You Were Born To
“Make sure you have finished speaking BEFORE your audience has finished listening.” Dorothy Sarnoff Just like you, I really appreciate when speakers keep it simple. By this I mean, when they have few points to make, make them clearly and keep us curious about more. They don’t try to be who they aren’t and say .. read more
There’s Peace of Mind with Public Speaking
As I write this post I have ear buds in so I can enjoy music from The Piano Guys without distracting others. I enjoy playing soothing or inspiring music while I work. It keeps me focused and motivated, helping me accomplish what’s on my list for the day. Accomplishing what is important gives me peace .. read more
Is Introversion Holding You Back from Speaking?
Some of the most powerful speakers are introverts. Perhaps you’ve already heard of introvert Susan Cain or seen her TED talks about her book, Quiet. She is a powerful speaker and so are other introverts. President Obama, Matt Lauer, David Letterman, Diane Sawyer and Barbara Walters all speak and respond well. In the tech world Jonathon Colman .. read more
Don’t Start Questioning Confidence
Many have been reflecting on the book, The Confidence Code, especially women, and questioning whether confidence is worth the struggle. Don’t fall victim to this quandry – it’s an excuse to give up. Instead, get back on track. Confidence, like enthusiasm, has 3 key benefits. 1. Confidence opens the individual’s mind for clear thinking. 2. .. read more
Keep the Fire Going
I have spent the past few weeks on the topic of vision with clients. Point being, when we connect to our vision, we remember our motivation. And with motivation, we prioritize and commit to our actions despite the barriers that get in our way. Having difficulty focusing on your vision right now? Let’s take 60 seconds .. read more
Bold or Purposeful?
There was a time when my eyes were opened to my own selfishness. Now a member of a Presbyterian church, I have contributed in church services with my artistic talents, namely my acting/singing skills. But growing up in a strict Lutheran church, I learned to keep my talents hidden so as to not brag on them. Although .. read more
Merri’s Tips – Part 2
7. If you’re a solo business owner, create a structure for daily affirmations. We all appreciate and/or thrive on recognition, let alone praise. Working solo means we aren’t regularly around folks put in the position to give us this. Create it. Write out affirmations daily. (My talents and ideas earn me $___ per month) Fill .. read more
