Tag Archives: Values

Mindful eating

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If you are like me, the New Year’s resolutions have come and gone. So now is the time for more sane and realistic goals to take center stage. Being effective in all realms of life requires a healthy mind and body, so I’m focusing on mindful eating.

It’s said you should treat your body as a temple. If so, mine’s a really over-stuffed temple on most days. A strategy I’m employing to keep my temple fed properly is mindful eating. It’s not difficult. I’m simply being more aware of the food I eat. How? By focusing on three baby steps:

Give thanks. Most of us in the Western world are disconnected from the sources of our food. Because food is easy to get, we don’t stop to consider the people (and animals) that were part of the process. Each meal, I give thanks for the nourishment that is available and the ways that food provides a means for connecting with others.

Enjoy. Before I start eating, I appreciate how the food looks and smells. As I take the first bite, I notice the texture and taste. It’s odd that really focusing on the yummy-ness of food helps you eat less, not more.

Slow down. If I don’t think about it, I go through whole meals shoveling food into my mouth, pausing only to minimally chew what I am consuming. To counteract that tendency, my goal is to intentionally pause three times during a meal or snack.

Launda Wheatley, Humanergy’s mindfulness expert, incorporates mindful eating in her wellness sessions. She says, “At its most basic level, eating is a pleasure that most people miss because they hurry through it. Simply slowing down turns this mundane routine into something special.”

More tips for mindful eating can be found in the New York Times article, “Mindful Eating as Food for Thought.”

What other simple joys are you missing because you’re rushing or trying to do three things at once? Even that staff meeting will be more pleasant if you tune into what you like about your team and the work you do together. Remember the words of Emily Dickinson: “Forever is composed of nows.”

Need to find ways to be more centered about focused? Contact Humanergy.

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How to kill wisdom

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Barry Schwartz studies wisdom and gave a brilliant Ted lecture on the topic that you won’t want to miss. In case you don’t have 20 minutes to watch the whole lecture now, here are the highlights.

Leaders want to encourage certain behaviors in their employees, ones they believe will advance the organization’s mission. The goal is for people to grow in wisdom – acting based on intelligence, experience and common sense. Dr. Schwartz discusses how to promote practical wisdom, which he defines as the moral will (I want to contribute) and skill (I know how to help) to do the right things.

Using the example of hospital janitors, Dr. Schwartz outlined how people use practical wisdom to make a difference. Although their job descriptions included nothing about contact with human beings, their care for and interactions with others positively impacted patient care and outcomes. The janitors:

Ignored orders in order to help people. A janitor skipped cleaning the waiting room out of respect for sleeping visitors who had been at the hospital for days.

Improvised based on the situation. Because a parent did not see him do it the first time, one janitor re-mopped a comatose patient’s room.

Used their skills to serve others, not themselves. These janitors often added to their own workload, so that patients’ and families’ needs were met.

Leaders often create rules and incentives to increase the likelihood that people will exhibit desired behaviors. Dr. Schwartz cautions that rules keep people from making well-reasoned judgments and don’t allow improvisation in the service of what is right.

Incentives seem harmless, but they shift people’s thinking from, “What is my responsibility?” to “What is in my best interest?” In effect, activities that involve incentives have been shown to reduce morale and morality.

Rather than more rules, incentives or ethics policies, Dr. Schwartz advises us to:

Celebrate moral heroes who show practical wisdom every day.

Get to know the people in your organization in order to know how to encourage moral will and skill.

Allow people the time and give them permission to do the right thing, because moral heroes are made, not born.

Think you’ve got the right amount and types of rules and incentives? Maybe it’s time for a second look. As Dr. Schwartz says, without wisdom, brilliance can get you into trouble. Watch this Ted video now.

Need help developing practical wisdom in your organization? Contact Humanergy.

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The best way to make your customers happy

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When it comes to making your customers happy, a recent blog post from our friends at Brains on Fire said it best. “Happy employees lead to happy customers. And that “shared happy” leads to positive word of mouth.”

So, how do you increase the happiness of your employees? Steve Cooper blogged at Forbes.com about Dr. Noelle Nelson’s book, Make More Money By Making Your Employees Happy.  It turns out that what people really want is for companies to “keep promises and show compassion for their employees.”

Paul Spiegelman, author of Why is Everyone Smiling?, suggests at Inc.com:

Recognize and reward. Give accolades to people who are doing a good job by publicly recognizing what is going well.

Make room for fun. Make time for people to do something wacky or unusual.

Walk the talk. Rules, ethics and consequences apply to everyone, regardless of position.

Implementing these strategies doesn’t mean that your employees won’t face problems. Your job as a leader is to enable true happiness – the ability to effectively confront and work through the difficulties that are inevitable in any workplace.

Need to boost happiness at work? Contact Humanergy.

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Can you become more tolerant of ambiguity?

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People differ greatly in their tolerance for ambiguity, though it is uncommon for leaders to admit that they don’t like situations that are unclear. As leaders, they feel that they must be seen to roll with the punches, help people find clarity in uncertain situations, and act decisively.

To get a more realistic understanding of your own comfort with ambiguity, start with assessing yourself on four modes developed by David Wilkinson regarding the ability to deal with increasing degrees of ambiguity and complexity.

Mode One – Technical Leadership. These leaders usually deal with ambiguity by denial or creating their own certainty. Mode One leaders are also more dictatorial and are very risk-averse by nature.

Mode Two – Cooperative Leadership. The aim of Mode Two leaders is to reduce uncertainty and to build teams around them to mitigate risk.

Mode Three – Collaborative Leadership. Mode Three leaders have a tendency towards consensual methods of leadership. They prefer to work towards aligning team members’ values and getting agreement. Their approach to ambiguity is for the group to examine it.

Mode Four – Generative Leadership. These leaders use ambiguity to find opportunity. They tend to be habitual learners and innovators.

People have a certain threshold for dealing with ambiguity and that capability can be developed through structured practice and coaching. How can you start expanding your tolerance of ambiguity?

Banish availability cascades. These are the assumptions that something is true simply because we have often heard that it is a fact, or can think of examples where it is true. Availability cascades keep you stuck in the past, clinging to misconceptions (for example, leaders need to have the answers, strategic planning always looks five years out, the most effective motivator is money).

Explore the “new world.” Carefully examine the changes that have occurred in your field in recent years. What new rules, facts and beliefs are pertinent now? How do these jive with your “old world” view? Learn something from the system outside your current reality – a younger employee or a different industry – and implement it to improve your own performance.

Look for cognitive dissonance. When confronted with situations that challenge your beliefs, knowledge or values, what is your reaction? Carefully examine your thoughts and behavior in the face of something that seems “just wrong.” You may not change your world view, but you will at least recognize that reality is less fixed and homogenous than you once assumed.

Dealing effectively with ambiguity means slowing things down at times and not rushing to find “the solution” to every dilemma. “The creative person is willing to live with ambiguity. He doesn’t need problems solved immediately and can afford to wait for the right ideas” (Abe Tannenbaum).

 

Want to become a generative leader who embraces ambiguity? Contact Humanergy.

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Just do one thing

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Most people would describe their lives as busy, even overwhelming. That’s the most common reason people give for not tackling the not-urgent-and-very-important things that we say are priorities. We don’t do them, in spite of the fact that they are the difference between reaching our potential and simply getting by.

How can you finally tackle that personal development goal that always gets moved to the back burner? How can your organization address the strategic issue that will surely derail you if you don’t attend to it?

I heard a bit of simple wisdom the other day. (I wish I could remember where!)

This week, do just one thing.

Do the one thing that will move you closer to achieving the result you need. It doesn’t have to be time-consuming or extremely difficult. It simply needs to be the one thing you can do now.

Next week do one more thing. “Don’t wait. The time will never be just right” (Napoleon Hill).

 

Can’t figure out what one thing to do? Contact Humanergy!


In times of scarcity, give more

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Adopting an abundance mentality has been a popular topic lately, purported to cure procrastination and ensure personal growth, among other benefits.

Recognizing abundance means that you view the world as full of opportunities, second chances and plenty of “stuff” to go around. People with an abundance mentality don’t ignore their own needs. They recognize that we’re all in this together, and that success depends upon care for self and others in this interconnected world.

Those with the opposite view – a scarcity mentality – believe that there are few resources and opportunities, and that if you’re lucky, you get only one shot at success. In times of scarcity, they take care of number one and act in ways to protect what they have.

An abundance mentality isn’t something you can just decide to adopt. It needs to be part of your emotional DNA and practiced regularly. Otherwise, when life hands you lemons, you will revert back to your old patterns of thinking short-term and putting your own needs first.

It’s easy to be generous in times of plenty. It often goes against the grain to give more in times of scarcity. How do you make abundance an enduring part of your world view?

Look around. When you’re tempted to indulge in a pity party, check out others’ realities. You will be far less likely to fall into self-pity and stinginess when you recognize how fortunate you are. Simple joys exist, if we stop to recognize them.

Make abundance a habit. Just like other healthy habits, an abundance mentality can be developed. Start or end each day with a quick reflection on what’s going well. You may want to pick a word, phrase or picture that sums up “abundance.” Post that prominently and make it a habit to count the many ways in which your cup runneth over. When you recognize your own abundance, make a daily choice to spread it around with generosity, kindness and positive action.

Recognize that stuff isn’t enough. A new car or promotion at work won’t give you lasting happiness. True abundance lies in relationships with others and fulfilling your life’s purpose. Don’t fall into the consumer trap of acquiring to fill the emotional gap. “Not what we have, but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance” (Epicurus).

Overcome fear. Scarcity creates fear. When money is tight and opportunities seem to shrink, the default reaction for us is to retrench and take care of ourselves. The way to banish fear is to choose the greater good over your own self-interest. Yes, your needs matter. They’re just not the ONLY things that matter.

Take the long view. Most setbacks are temporary. Focus not on today’s struggles, but on the future you will create. Then take satisfaction as you implement concrete steps to get there.

Pick an abundance partner. This can be someone who embodies abundance – or a person who, like you, needs a reminder that the glass is half full. Create a plan that will help you both maintain your new perspective.

An abundance mentality doesn’t ensure that you will get everything you want. It does mean that hopefulness and contentment will be in greater supply.

 


The marvel of a new day

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How would tomorrow be different if you could see it as a new day? This would not be a regular Thursday that follows Wednesday, but an opportunity to consciously make all things unspoiled by your previous experiences.

For 24 hours, you “make all things new” in your mind. You appreciate people and your surroundings as if you had never encountered them before. Even more powerfully, you would decide to banish all types of assumptions and beliefs – about people and groups and organizations.

It is true that we cannot wander in a state of child-like wonder and “newness” all the time. Taking a day to begin again is a useful exercise with a long-term payoff.

Starting “from scratch” deepens insight and self-awareness. You recognize expectations and assumptions as they bubble to the surface throughout the day, giving you an opportunity to test their validity. You may find that you’ve amassed a collection of biases with little or no solid foundation.

To capture these insights, go “old school” and carry a notepad and jot down what you observe. Or, make notes in your iphone, if you’re so inclined. Make sure you apply what you’ve learned to make your next “regular” day better.

The icing on the cake? A new day allows you to fully experience surprise, joy and awe. Simple pleasures won’t be overlooked as you rush to do the next thing.

What epiphanies might you gain from being more present and aware tomorrow?

 

Need help to be more mindful? Contact Humanergy!

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Darn it! Does swearing make you colorful or crude?

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“Life is a four-letter word.” (Lenny Bruce)

One of the most influential memories from childhood involves my brother getting his mouth washed out with soap for uttering a swear word. I can’t recall the specific word, but I do remember the gagging, amidst promises never to repeat the offense. I was certainly careful to keep my own language G-rated in front of my mom after that disturbing event!

Truth be told, my language of late could merit some soap; and, I’m not alone. It seems that society today accepts, or at least tolerates, a certain level of profanity. When it comes to our kids and cussing, we often adopt a “do as I say, not as I do” attitude.

Is swearing at work no big deal? Or, does it mark you as a person who is not in control? I like the Evil HR Lady’s take on four-letter words in the CBS blog post called Swearing at Work. She says:

“Someone will argue that using swear words just shows who they really are; and, if you tell them to stop it, you’re suppressing their personality and creativity. I say any 13 year old can say dirty words; and, if you want to demonstrate your individuality and creativity, try saying something different.”

So why do I occasionally slip and use bad language? Sometimes I think it makes me feel better. It’s mildly cathartic. I also think it’s my way of saying, “I am really, really upset; so, pay attention!”

I wonder if I also subconsciously think letting a few expletives fly makes me more colorful and interesting – sort of the “bad girl” persona that contrasts with my solidly boring, Midwestern self. (In my own defense, I should note that I really don’t use bad language in a hurtful way – at least I certainly hope I don’t!)

All excuses aside, swearing isn’t really attractive or necessary to explain the amplitude of my feelings. It’s a lazy way to blow off some steam or be expressive. When choosing my words going forward, I vow to choose carefully. I will remember the wise words of the Evil HR Lady who said, “I have never heard anyone say, ‘Gee, I just love Bill’s foul mouth.’”

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Ode to road kill: Survival tips for business travelers

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(Today’s post is courtesy of Humanergy’s very own Lynn Townsend, a veteran of the rat race who has lived to tell the tale!)

Recently a former colleague of mine, HK, retired. HK had spent more than two decades as an engineer for a Fortune 500 food company. One of my favorite memories of HK came from a long week on the road. HK and I, along with other team members, were working long days and nights to start production of a new product. One evening, after the rest of the team had finished for the day, HK and I left the plant for dinner. We were tired. Dragging. Exhausted.

On the return trip to the plant, we saw a dead raccoon at the side of the road. It looked like most road kill after a few days in the sun – like a balloon with four paws. As we passed the animal with the unfortunate fate, HK said: “That’s just how I feel,” stretching out his arms to mimic the bloated animal. I laughed. I don’t think I’ll ever get that image of HK out of my head.

Business road warriors, those who travel regularly for work, usually have great stories. Some, like the road kill, are funny. Others not so much. Like the time I returned to my hotel room to find the cleaning lady using my fingernail clippers. Not joking! Or when it took me 14 hours to make a 2-hour flight. Oh, and that subzero night when the hotel heat was out and the mattress factory two blocks down caught fire at 2 a.m. Ahh, business travel.

Fortunately, I did learn a few survival tips while my colleagues and I racked up the frequent flyer miles:

Play a little. Traveling with a team and working side by side for 14 to 20 hours, day after day, can max the most easy-going person. Take time to do something fun with your team. Order pizza. Sing karaoke. Cook dinner together. Shoot hoops.

Laugh! A shared team humor, like fun nicknames and inside jokes, is great glue to bond your team. Remember: Humor should be in good taste and acceptable to all teammates.

Put your own oxygen mask on first. Don’t forget to take a few minutes or an hour or two each day to revive yourself. Exercise. Read. Relax. A little down time helps restart your engine and gives both you and your colleagues a break from each other.

Stick together. When the speed bumps pop up in the road, stick with your team. Challenges will come. See past each other’s flaws and fatigue. Give a little grace, kindness and forgiveness.

Frequent business travel isn’t for the faint of heart (and apparently doesn’t bode well for raccoons). Nevertheless, you can survive admirably on the road when you know: Travel is glamorous only in retrospect (travel writer, Paul Theroux.).

 

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Job hunt? Nail the interview

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We recently covered resume tips for those who may be entering or re-entering job search mode.  Presuming you’ve thoroughly worked your network of contacts, you are ready for the interview stage. (If you still think you’ll get a job via newspapers or online postings, think again.)

According to www.dictionary.com, the definition of interview includes “to have a glimpse of.” Interviews help you get a glimpse into the employer and the employer into you. Relax. It’s a mutual information sharing meeting.

After a deep breath, consider these steps to a successful interview:

Practice. Practice. Practice. Write your responses to these possible interview questions. Then read your responses aloud at least three times. Practice being the interviewee with your spouse, a friend or 10-year-old. Get comfortable answering questions about yourself with clarity, focus and impact.

  • What do you know about us? What questions do you have about us?
  • What makes you a good fit for us? What can you do for our bottom line?
  • Tell me about a time you weren’t successful.
  • Tell me about a time where you helped someone do something that wasn’t your job.
  • If you look at your life (or work life), what would you change? What would you keep the same?
  • Describe a situation where you handled conflict.
  • How do your experiences fit with the job you are applying for? Please explain.

Research. Research. Research. Review the prospective employer’s website. Google it. Check recent news releases and news stories. What’s going on? Is the news about it consistent with its mission and vision? Your personal mission and vision? Does its stated values align with your own? Is it growing…or not? What’s its next big opportunity?

Dress up, not down. A few days before your interview, check your attire. Use the rule of thumb: Dress one level above your audience. For example, if you are interviewing for a store clerk position, don’t wear jeans. Wear dressy pants and a collared shirt. If you’re interviewing for an executive position, wear your best business suit (or better yet, buy a new one). No tuxes, please, unless you’re interviewing for a butler, maitre d’ or penguin job.

Know your mantra. Answer the question: What three positive things do I want my interviewer to say about me to others after the interview. For example: “She was confident, competent and fun.”

Examine your distortions. Robert Pagliarini blogged about the psychological “tells” that many interviewees display. These cognitive distortions are habits of thinking that are not in keeping with reality. One example is polarized thinking, when you view situations as “black or white, no shades of gray.” Obviously, potential new employers can easily pick up on this and may be put off. For more cognitive distortions, check out his blog post at CBS MoneyWatch.

Have fun. We don’t recommend answering questions this way, but it might make you smile while you interview: During job interviews, when they ask: ‘What is your worst quality?’ I always say: ‘Flatulence’. That way I get my own office.” Courtesy of Dan Thompson.

Ready to get back into the interview pool? Dip in your toe, then dive right in. Good luck!

 

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