​Hey there, fellow success-focused professionals! Today, let's dive into a topic that's near and dear to all of us: work-life sustainability. Gone are the days of chasing elusive work-life balance, trying to juggle work and a personal life as if they were opposing forces. Instead, let's explore the concept of work-life sustainability and how it can safeguard your emotional energy, leading to greater career success and longevity.
 
So, what exactly is work-life sustainability? Well, it's about seamlessly blending the various facets of your life into a harmonious whole. Work is not isolated from life, but rather a part of it. This mindset shift can make a world of difference in how you approach your daily responsibilities. Now, you might wonder how to achieve this seemingly magical state of work-life integration. Well, there's no one-size-fits-all approach, but here are some practical ways to get started:

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Embracing flexible work options can be a game-changer. Whether it's remote/hybrid work, flexible hours, or job-sharing, these alternatives allow you to customize your work schedule to fit around your personal commitments. By having control over your time, you can be present for important moments in both your personal and professional life.

 

• Set Clear Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal time keeps things in synch. Avoid checking work emails during family time or allowing personal issues to interfere with your work responsibilities (if you have a personal issue to resolve, take the time you need away from work, it’ll will help take the pressure off both work and life). By defining these limits, you'll be better equipped to focus on each aspect without the added stress of constant overlap (working someplace that doesn’t respect boundaries? I’ve got you covered).

 

• Prioritize Self-Care: Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup. Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Engage in activities that rejuvenate your emotional energy as well as your physical energy, whether that’s reading a book, deep breathing, or pursuing a hobby. Taking care of yourself will boost your emotional energy and increase your resilience.

 
Why is preserving emotional energy so vital for career success and longevity? Well, emotional energy is the precious fuel that drives our performance and overall wellbeing. When we're constantly burned out or emotionally depleted, our productivity suffers, and we're more prone to making mistakes and poor decisions (remember, no one makes good decision when they’re exhausted or frustrated).
 
When you prioritize work-life sustainability and protect your emotional energy, several amazing things happen. First, you’ll experience increased job satisfaction and can be more effortlessly engaged in your work. Second, you’ll become a better problem solver and decision-maker, as your mind is clearer and more focused (free of decision-fatigue and doubt). Third, your creativity flourishes, allowing you to think outside the box and innovate.
 
Moreover, protecting your emotional energy directly impacts your professional career longevity. Burnout is a real issue in today's workplace, and it can lead to decreased performance, higher turnover rates, and even serious health problems. By integrating work and life in a way that nurtures your emotional wellbeing, you build resilience and can sustain your career passion and drive for the long haul.
 
To sum up, work-life sustainability offers a refreshing perspective on achieving harmony between our personal and professional lives. By embracing this approach, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, you can better safeguard your emotional energy, paving the way for sustained career success and fulfillment. So, let's ditch the notion of work-life balance and embark on a journey of work-life sustainability to lead happier, more rewarding professional lives. Cheers to a more fulfilling career ahead!

Let's talk about an issue that many of us face in the corporate world - negotiating work-life sustainability in an organization that seems to have a blind spot for boundaries. We all know how crucial it is to strike a balance between our work and personal lives, but it can be challenging when the company culture doesn't value this aspect as much as it should. So, how can you effectively manage the stress of defending your boundaries while fostering a win-win solution that supports both business success and our wellbeing? I’ve got you, let's jump in!
 

• Acknowledge Your Value:
  First things first, recognize that your wellbeing matters! Start by communicating to yourself the importance of maintaining healthy work-life sustainability. When you acknowledge your value and worth, you’ll be better equipped to advocate for your wellbeing in the workplace.

 

• Find Common Ground: 
  Approach negotiations with a win-win mindset. Demonstrate how your work-life sustainability can actually benefit the organization by increasing your overall efficiency and commitment. Frame your boundaries in a way that aligns with the company's goals and values. Show that your well-being supports a more engaged and motivated workforce.
  
  

• Gather Data and Examples:
  When addressing work-life sustainability with management, gather data and concrete examples that demonstrate the positive impact of sustainable living on business outcomes. Specifically, the positive impact vacations and moderated working hours have had on ideation, motivation and productivity (you can bring examples from your work outcomes, or more general results from projects and successes the organization’s had).  Research has shown that employees who are well-rested and have time for personal pursuits are more productive and creative. Utilize your research data to demonstrate that your wellbeing can be directly tied to the company's success.

 

• Advocate for a Trial Period:
  If the organization is resistant to changes, propose a trial period where your boundaries are tested and measured. Assure them that you are committed to maintaining your productivity while focusing on your wellbeing. After the trial period, evaluate the results together to see the impact on both your performance and the organization's success.  Objectivity is key here, the idea is to use data from your performance, not how your performance compares to that of others with different strengths and opportunities.

 

• Set and See:
  Organizations may have no idea of the individual work-life sustainability boundaries that are followed at work; they simply don’t notice personal boundaries when deliverables are met.  If there is little risk to your reputation or performance, set and follow the boundaries you need for work-life sustainability.  If no one notices and your performance is viewed positively (it helps to keep that front and center in your boss’s mind), you’re good to go without a wave-making conversation (and if it comes up later, you can point to the positive outcomes to your performance the boundary made possible).

 

• Form a Supportive Network:
  Team up with like-minded colleagues who also value work-life sustainability. Together, you can strengthen your arguments and provide each other with emotional support. A united front will be harder to ignore, and it may encourage the organization to consider alternative approaches to work-life integration.

 

• Be Resilient and Consistent:
  It's essential to be persistent and consistent in defending your boundaries. In a status-quo environment, it may take time for the organization to adapt to change. Stay resilient, focus on the positive outcomes, and continue to communicate your needs with clarity and confidence.

 
Negotiating work-life sustainability in an organization that doesn't value boundaries can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By recognizing your value, gathering data, finding common ground, testing a boundary, proposing trial periods, forming a support network, and remaining resilient, you can advocate for your well-being and ultimately support business success. Remember, a balanced and fulfilled employee is an asset to any organization, and it's up to you to communicate this message (and role model it) effectively. Use these strategies to find the perfect harmony between work and life!

Hey there, fellow commitment junkies! Let's take a moment to talk about something that affects all of us at work but often goes unnoticed: emotional energy. We all know how draining work can be, and it's crucial to understand what depletes our emotional energy and how we can tackle it head-on to thrive in our professional lives. So, let's dive in!
 
First off, emotional energy is the precious fuel that drives our performance and overall wellbeing, which is why it’s so important to know what depletes your emotional energy.  That list can be long, my friend. Constant pressure, tight deadlines, interpersonal conflicts, an absence of interesting work, excessive workload, and even the lack of work-life sustainability are just a few culprits that can leave us feeling emotionally drained at the end of the day.
 
Imagine this: You have a tight deadline for an important project, and you've been working non-stop, sacrificing quality time at home and social activities with friends. It's like a ticking time bomb for your emotional energy. Meaning, one day, you might find yourself snapping at your colleagues or feeling overwhelmed by minor setbacks. I’m writing from experience here; it’s happened to me more often than I’d like to admit!  But I’ve learned there are things we can do to support our emotional health and I’m sharing them here.
 
Anticipating and planning for circumstances that deplete your emotional energy is crucial for maintaining healthy work-life sustainability and thriving at your job.  so, let's talk strategies!
 

• Self-awareness is Key: Recognize the signs of emotional exhaustion early on. When you start feeling irritable, fatigued, or demotivated, take a step back and assess your emotional energy levels and what you need to do to recharge.  It may just be that you need a quick break (talking a walk) or a sign to keep the laptop closed evenings/weekends.

 

• Set Realistic Boundaries: Learn to say 'no' when your plate is already full. It's okay to decline additional tasks if it means protecting your emotional wellbeing (and the confidence to deliver on what’s already on your plate).

 

• Take Breaks and Rest: Incorporate short breaks into your workday to recharge. A walk outside, a few minutes of deep breathing or refilling your cup (physically and metaphorically) can do wonders for your emotional energy (coffee is my spirt animal but not a magic bullet).

 

• Prioritize Tasks: Tackle the most critical tasks when your emotional energy levels are at their peak. Don't be afraid to delegate less important tasks to colleagues (if that’s an option for you) or to seek clarity on the depth and degree of the assignment you’ve been tasked with (nothing sucks the life out of you faster than over-delivering on something that others won’t value because they can’t use everything you did).

 

• Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive colleagues who understand the importance of emotional wellbeing. A little venting, sharing and laughter can go a long way to rejuvenating your spirits and motivation.

 

• Work-Life Sustainability: Instead of striving for work-life balance, aim for work-life sustainability. Find ways to blend work and personal life harmoniously, so one doesn't drain the other by supports both well.

 

• Hobbies and Passions: Cultivate hobbies and passions outside of work that bring you joy and fulfillment. They act as emotional outlets and help recharge your energy and confidence.

 

• Seek Professional Help if Needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to a therapist, psychologist or coach if work-related stress is overwhelming you.  Asking for help can be an immediate emotional energy boost.

 
Know that your emotional energy is precious, and taking care of it should be your top priority. By anticipating and planning for circumstances that deplete your emotional energy, you can reduce the impact and truly thrive at work. So, consider how you’d like to use these strategies for yourself to create a workplace where both success and emotional wellbeing live well together. You deserve nothing less!

Hello, hello, hello! Today I want to take us into uncharted territory. Let’s talk about something none of us were taught in school:  knowing how to name an emotion.  This one simple step holds the keys to unravelling emotional health at work, because feeling things you may not want to feel is one of the significant challenges many professionals face (especially at work). 
 
Emotions can be complex and nuanced, making it challenging to put them into words, so here are some helpful tips on how to effectively name your emotions:

• Pause and Reflect: In the midst of a hectic workday, take a moment to pause and reflect on how you're feeling. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Tune in to your body and mind to identify any sensations or thoughts that might indicate you’re experiencing an underlying emotion.
  
  
• Increase Emotional Literacy: Familiarize yourself with a wide range of emotions and the words that describe them. There's a vast emotional vocabulary beyond just "happy" or "sad." Explore terms like "frustrated," "overwhelmed," "motivated," "grateful," "anxious," and so on. Having a diverse emotional vocabulary can help you pinpoint what you're feeling more accurately (and its intensity – there’s a big difference between feeling annoyed versus angry, even though they’re in the same “emotion family”).  Look up “wheel of emotions” for a tool that lists different emotions from positive to negative. It’s like a thesaurus for your feelings.

 

• Journaling: Keep a work journal where you jot down your thoughts and experiences throughout the day. When you encounter a situation that triggers an emotional response, write about it. Putting your feelings into words on paper can bring clarity and understanding.

 

• Seek Emotional Intelligence Training: Consider attending workshops or investing in an assessment focused on emotional intelligence and emotional awareness. These activities often provide practical tools and exercises to help you recognize and label your emotions effectively and deepen your resilience skills on your terms (even at work).

 

• Talk to a Trusted Colleague: If you're unsure about your emotions, talking to a trusted colleague or friend can be beneficial. Sometimes, an outside perspective can help identify emotions you might have difficulty recognizing within yourself.  Need something more structured to help you at work?  Consider working with a career coach.

 

• Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Mindfulness (like deep breathing, journaling and other techniques) helps you become more present and attuned to your emotions, making it easier to identify and name them.

 

• Don't Judge Yourself: Remember there are no right or wrong emotions, and you don't get to choose what you're feeling. It's essential to avoid judging yourself for what you're feeling. Emotions are natural and valid responses to various situations, and acknowledging them without self-criticism is crucial for your emotional wellbeing.

 
Naming your emotions takes practice and patience, but it's a skill that can significantly improve your work experiences and overall emotional health & hygiene. 
Identifying and naming your emotions is like a GPS for your emotional wellbeing. When you can pinpoint what you're feeling, it's like shining a light on the unknown, making it less intimidating. It gives you a sense of control and clarity in the emotional chaos. Moreover, it allows you to communicate your needs effectively, whether to yourself or others, fostering healthier relationships.
 
Emotions are like messengers; naming them helps you understand their purpose. It's like deciphering a secret code, giving you insights into what's bothering you or bringing you joy. This self-awareness is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence, which contributes significantly to mental health. When you can navigate your emotions, you're better equipped to manage stress, make informed decisions, and ultimately, lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
 
Embrace the journey of self-discovery, and with time, you'll become more adept at identifying and expressing your feelings, paving the way for a more fulfilling and balanced professional life.

Hey there, fellow remote work warriors! The fact that our work environment has undergone a massive transformation in recent times, is no longer news.  However, trying to capture workplace joy and emotional satisfaction with this way of working has put up more of a challenge than first anticipated.  When we moved to virtual/hybrid work we took with us our current work-based relationships.  But over time (and as people move on to different projects and roles) you may lose touch with those work colleagues with whom you were familiar and comfortable.  
 
Now you may face the daunting task of building new relationships (or trying to maintain established ones over time and distance).  It’s a clear case of how absence does not necessarily make the heart grow fonder. With virtual and hybrid setups being the norm (even when you need to be in the office 2-3 days a week), building meaningful relationships with co-workers may seem like a daunting task. But fear not, because I'm here to spill the beans on how to foster those connections and why it's crucial for your emotional and mental wellbeing.
 
In the virtual or hybrid workspace, gone are the days of spontaneous over-the-cubical chats or team lunches. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the camaraderie and support that comes with in-person interactions. Here's how you can forge strong relationships and the reasons why doing so is an advantage for your emotional and mental health:
 
Embrace Virtual Water Coolers: 
In a physical office, the water cooler is where the magic happens – casual conversations, laughs, and bonding. In the virtual world, this magic spot is usually a chat channel or a virtual hangout room. Embrace it! Drop in, say hello, share a laugh - these informal interactions help build rapport.
 
Schedule Virtual Coffee Breaks: 
Just because you're not sitting next to each other doesn't mean you can't enjoy a coffee break together. Set up virtual coffee sessions with colleagues to chat about non-work-related topics and strengthen your connections.
 
Be an Empathetic Listener: 
In virtual or hybrid setups, it's vital to be an attentive and empathetic listener (either on the phone, or with video-on). When someone shares their thoughts or experiences, be genuinely engaged, and show that you care. Your support can make a world of difference in their day.
 
Participate Actively in Virtual Meetings: 
It's easy to zone out during virtual meetings, but resist the urge to multitask. Active participation shows your commitment to teamwork and helps you understand your colleagues better.
 
Organize Virtual Team-Building Activities: 
Get creative with virtual team-building activities! From online games to virtual escape rooms, organizing these events fosters a sense of togetherness and fun (Need some help?  Here's my top 5 suggestions for virtual team building).
 
Share Celebrations and Milestones: 
Don't let distance prevent you from celebrating achievements and milestones. Recognize your co-workers' accomplishments and join in their joys to strengthen your bond.
 
Foster a Culture of Recognition:
Give praise and recognition freely when your co-workers excel. A culture of appreciation uplifts everyone's spirits and promotes a positive atmosphere.  Doing it consistently means people won’t think you’re just “being nice”, they’ll know you really mean it.
 
Create Virtual Watering Holes: 
Set up social platforms for your team, like Slack channels or Microsoft Teams groups, where colleagues can share hobbies, interests, and inspirations outside of work.
 
Offer Support and Help: 
In a virtual or hybrid environment, it's essential to offer assistance to colleagues in need. Whether it's work-related guidance or a listening ear during challenging times, being supportive builds trust and rapport.
 
Now, let's talk about why nurturing these virtual connections is crucial for your emotional and mental health:

1. Alleviates Feelings of Isolation: Building relationships with co-workers fosters a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation that can arise when working separate from your colleagues (in the office or out).
2. Boosts Motivation and Productivity: Feeling connected and supported by your colleagues can boost your motivation and overall productivity, leading to higher job satisfaction.
3. Provides Emotional Support: Having a network of co-workers you can turn to for emotional support can help you cope with stress and uncertainties.
4. Enhances Collaboration and Teamwork: Strong relationships enhance collaboration and teamwork, leading to better problem-solving and innovative ideas.
5. Improves Communication: Open and positive relationships with colleagues facilitate clearer and more effective communication that reduces misunderstandings and provides trust when they do happen.

 
Building and maintaining relationships with co-workers in a virtual or hybrid working environment requires a little extra effort, but it's well worth it. The emotional and mental health benefits of having a supportive work community are immeasurable. So, let's embrace this new era of work and create a virtual haven of camaraderie and understanding. Cheers to forging virtual vibes that last!

​Hey there, virtual team warriors! In the realm of remote work, we all know how challenging it can be to foster team unity when we're spread across different locations, even time zones and continents. But fear not! I've got your back with five fantastic virtual team building activities that can bridge the gaps and strengthen your team's bond, even when everyone has unique social interaction needs.

• Virtual Escape Room Extravaganza:
  Lock your team's problem-solving prowess and camaraderie into place with a virtual escape room challenge. These virtual adventures test your team's ability to work together, crack codes, and unravel mysteries—all while having a blast. Everyone's involvement is essential, but the beauty lies in each team member's ability to contribute in their preferred way. Whether you're the brilliant strategist or the clue-hunting sleuth, there's a role for everyone!  Search for “virtual escape rooms” and find the one that works best for your group and budget.

 

• Virtual Coffee Break Roulette:
  ​Ah, the classic watercooler chat—the fuel that ignites friendships in traditional offices. Put a new <ahem> spin on something that’s worked in the past! With a virtual coffee break roulette, everyone gets a chance to be paired up randomly for a casual chat. It's a delightful way to encourage spontaneous connections and build personal bonds, catering to each individual's social comfort zone. You never know; you might just discover a shared love for binging a show or vintage video games!

 

• Virtual "Show and Tell" Sessions:
  Who said "Show and Tell" was only for kids? Embrace your inner child and host regular virtual "Show and Tell" sessions with your remote team. Whether it's a favourite pet, hobby, a new recipe you nailed, or a cherished childhood keepsake, sharing personal stories fosters empathy and understanding among team members. Those who prefer more social interaction will eagerly share, while others can choose to listen and appreciate the diverse experiences.

 

• Virtual Team Trivia Tournament:
  Sharpen your wits and battle it out in a virtual team trivia tournament! Split your team into smaller groups and compete in a friendly showdown of knowledge. This activity not only strengthens teamwork but also respects each team member's social preferences. Those who love to lead can take charge of strategy, while others can quietly contribute with their expertise. You’ll discover hidden talents and surprising untapped knowledge that’s a win-win for everyone involved!

 

• Virtual Volunteer Initiative:
  ​Joining forces for a cause close to your hearts can be a deeply rewarding experience. Engage your team in a virtual volunteer initiative where they can contribute their skills and time to support a charitable organization. This activity provides a sense of purpose and helps team members connect on a deeper level, even if their social interaction needs vary. From creating graphics to writing heartfelt messages, everyone has something valuable to offer.

 
So, there you have it—five fabulous virtual team building activities designed to bring your diverse team together, no matter their social interaction preferences. Embrace the differences, celebrate each team member's uniqueness, and watch your virtual team grow into an unstoppable force! Happy team building!

​We all know the daily grind can be exhausting, but have you ever stopped to ponder the difference between physical energy and emotional energy? While both play crucial roles in your life, it's essential to understand how they vary and how you can support your emotional energy to thrive in the hustle and bustle of a busy workplace.
 
So, let's break it down. Physical energy is what keeps your body going, allowing you to carry out tasks, endure workouts, and run errands. On the other hand, emotional energy is more intangible - it's the fuel that drives your motivation, resilience, and ability to cope with stress and challenges.
 
Picture this: You may have had a good night's sleep, a healthy breakfast, and a strong cup of coffee to power you through the day physically, but if your emotional energy is drained, you might still feel like a deflated balloon.  Feeling familiar?  Emotional energy doesn’t get the love that physical energy does, meaning this isn’t taught in health class or talked about nearly enough to ensure emotional energy enjoys the same awareness and priority as physical energy.  Yet, we need both to thrive.
 
So, here are some tips to boost and maintain your emotional energy, even amidst the craziness of a busy workplace:
 

• Mindfulness Moments: 
  Incorporate short mindfulness practices throughout your day. Take a few minutes to close your eyes, focus on your breath, and let go of stress. Mindfulness helps reset your emotional state and increase self-awareness.

 

• Connect with Colleagues: 
  Building positive relationships at work can be an emotional energy game-changer. Take breaks with colleagues, have a chat, and create a supportive environment. The sense of belonging and camaraderie will do wonders.

 

• Set Boundaries: 
  Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid taking work-related calls or emails during your downtime. By doing so, you protect your emotional energy from being drained by constant work stress.

 

• Celebrate Small Wins: 
  Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Positive reinforcement boosts emotional energy and motivates you to tackle bigger challenges.

 

• Design a Nurturing Workspace: 
  Personalize your workspace with items that bring you joy or inspiration. Surround yourself with plants, pictures, or quotes that resonate with you. A welcoming environment can recharge your emotional batteries.

 

• Practice Emotional Agility: 
  Emotions are natural, and it's important (and OK) to experience the full spectrum of them. Practice emotional agility by acknowledging your feelings, seeing through them to their root causes, and finding healthy ways to respond.

 

• Regular Breaks and Movement: 
  Make it a habit to take short breaks and move around throughout the day. Physical activity releases endorphins and revitalizes emotional energy.

 

• Time Prioritization: 
  Efficiently manage your time by prioritizing tasks. Feeling in control of your workload can reduce stress and boost emotional resilience.

 

• Learning and Growth: 
  ​Engage in activities that promote personal and professional growth. Expanding your knowledge and skills can provide a sense of accomplishment and elevate your emotional energy.

 
Remember, it's not just about surviving the busy workplace; it's about thriving in it. By nurturing your emotional energy, you'll find yourself better equipped to tackle challenges, maintain a positive outlook, and build lasting connections with your colleagues. So, let's raise a cup to emotional well-being and support our work lives to become more fulfilling and successful! Cheers!

Anytime you choose to do something new there is a learning curve, and the word “curve” is deceiving.  But if it was called learning “chaos” even fewer people would opt in.  Yet, that chaos is something that’s incredibly valuable to your development as a human.  It helps to know it’s coming so you’re ready to embrace the inevitable messiness as you step outside your career comfort zone.  This is a lesson I keep learning and re-learning throughout my own career, most recently when I completed the first draft of my book, exploring how to care for your emotional wellbeing in an environment where you don’t always have control and influence - work (it’s coming out in early 2024). I needed to submit my first draft to my writing coach this week and I was so afraid of rejection that it took me 3 hours to hit send.  I needn’t have worried, but in my fear of the unknown I did forget the cardinal rule of doing something new – you have to take a calculated risk.
 
It's hard doing new things for many reasons.  In any endeavor famous humans undertake, we get the “well-dressed” version of their path to success (via social media).  You know, the one where there was lots of support, natural talent, commitment, etc. and everything culminated in success (whether it’s a movie, a successful business or a best-selling book).  No one talks about the chaos, the self-doubt, the things that needed to be experienced, screwed-up and re-learned.  But the mess is so important, because without mess, there is no success.  So here are some things to help you embrace the messiness of doing something new that’s crucial for your career growth and success.

• Firstly, understand that messiness is a sign of progress. When you step outside your comfort zone, you're bound to encounter challenges and setbacks. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed or unsure of your next move. Remember, every great accomplishment is born out of chaos.  The biggest difference between those who persevere and those who don’t is the ability to keep moving forward in the mess, self-doubt and unknown.

• Secondly, embrace the learning process. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on gaining experience and acquiring new skills. View each stumble as an opportunity to grow, learn, and improve. Success only emerges from a series of failures and lessons learned along the way, there’s no other way to get there.  Anyone who tells you their success story was immaculate and without hiccup is not ready to acknowledge the truth about their journey (and that’s OK, just don’t believe their hype, messiness happens to absolutely everyone).

• Thirdly, surround yourself with a support system. In my case I have a writing coach, and I’ll also be sharing excerpts of my book for comment with others who want to support making it the best it can be (sign up below if you want to be on the list).  Seek out mentors, friends, a coach or colleagues who have navigated similar paths. They can provide guidance, share their own messy experiences, and offer encouragement when you need it most. Remember, trying to undertake a significant journey alone will reduce your chances of persevering, putting you at greater risk of abandoning your pursuits (as an example, this is the 7th book I’ve started and the one that will get finished because this time I’m not going it alone).  You're never alone in this journey, there’s always someone you can reach out to for support (which includes me).

• Lastly and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that messiness is a part of growth and career integration. Give yourself permission to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow from them. Trust in your ability to adapt and find creative solutions amidst the chaos. Take breaks when you’re stuck, no one thinks clearly when they’re tired or frustrated.  Love yourself in all your glorious messiness because you’re a beautiful work-in-progress (we all are).

 
Embracing the messiness of doing something new in your career is an essential part of personal and professional development. It allows for growth, learning, and innovation. So, step into the unknown with courage, embrace the chaos, and watch as your career unfolds in unexpected and fulfilling ways.  My book will be published in 2024 because I’m willing to see its potential through its current raw and messy state.  I’m driven to see it succeed not just for my career, but for everyone who wants to surpass the unnecessary challenges to their wellbeing that a modern workplace can present.
 
Is a new career journey easy?  Nope.  Is it worth it?  Absolutely.  Push past the chaos, you’ll have no regrets.

​I want to tackle a sensitive topic that’s happened to all of us at one point or another. You wake up one morning, and that once-burning flame of excitement and motivation for your job has flickered out. The spark that once ignited your drive seems like a distant memory. Let's get honest; we've all been there (myself included). This is what it feels like when you've lost that loving feeling at work, and it can be very disturbing (even downright scary). But hang tight! Today, we're going to explore some practical steps to help you reconnect with your role and find that passion again.

• Reflect on the Past: 
  Take a trip down memory lane. Recall what initially attracted you to this job. Was it the challenge, the opportunity for growth, or the chance to make a difference? By revisiting your past motivations, you can regain clarity about why you chose this path and either reignite that initial enthusiasm, or understand what’s changed for yourself so you can make an informed and clear decision about what you do next.

 

• Seek New Perspectives: 
  Talk to your colleagues, supervisors, or mentors about your feelings (being careful to reflect your high performance, so they know there hasn’t been a change there); a career coach is also an invaluable source of fresh perspective. Share your concerns and express your desire to emotionally re-engage. Others may offer fresh insights, advice, or opportunities for growth within your current role. Sometimes, a different perspective can unlock new possibilities and reignite your engagement in your role.

 

• Redefine Your Goals: 
  Lost motivation often stems from feeling stagnant or unchallenged. Set new goals that align with your personal and professional aspirations. Break them down into achievable milestones, allowing yourself to experience small wins along the way. By pursuing meaningful goals, you can inject purpose into your work and find renewed motivation.  These can include broadening your skills and knowledge, and/or pursuing the next level in your career.

 

• Expand Your Skill Set: 
  Monotony can drain the life out of any job. Challenge yourself to learn new skills or take on additional responsibilities that are in alignment with your long-term career goals. Seek out training, workshops, or coaching programs that align with your interests and career path. Expanding your knowledge and skill set can inject fresh energy into your work and help you feel more engaged.
  
  
• Embrace Change: 
  ​Sometimes, change is necessary to rediscover your passion. Consider seeking new challenges within your organization or exploring opportunities elsewhere.  Looking around to see what’s out there is a good way to see what’s possible in your profession, it provides ideas to expand your current role into areas of interest, and lets you learn about possible new career opportunities. A new role, team, or industry might be just what you need to reignite your love for work. Embrace the unknown and be open to new possibilities (it never hurts to see what your options are).

 

• Find Meaning Outside of Work: 
  ​Remember, your job doesn't define you entirely, nor can it fulfill you if it’s an all-consuming focus. Cultivate a rich and fulfilling life beyond the role you hold. Engage in hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and pursue personal interests. By finding fulfillment outside of work, you'll bring a renewed sense of joy and purpose into your professional life.

 
Losing that loving feeling at work is a common phenomenon, but it doesn't have to be a permanent state. By reflecting on your past, seeking new perspectives, setting goals, expanding your skills, embracing change, and finding meaning outside of work, you can reignite the fire within and rediscover your passion. Remember, your role can evolve, and you have the power to shape it into something meaningful. So, take control, and make every day at work an opportunity for enjoyment, growth and fulfillment. You've got this!

​I’ve been reading a lot about a topic that affects many of us at work: perception bias. It's like a sneaky storm that can wreak havoc on your life, especially if you’re already grappling with various challenges (personal or professional). Moreover, when combined with the symptoms of burnout, it can create a toxic cycle that makes it even harder to find joy and satisfaction in your professional life. So, buckle up as we navigate our way through this perfect storm together!
 
Picture this: you're going through a tough phase in your life - be it personal or professional. You're overwhelmed, stressed, and struggling to keep up. Now, add perception bias to the mix. It's a phenomenon where our brains filter information based on preconceived notions, stereotypes, or beliefs. This means that we may interpret situations, feedback, or even people's intentions in a way that confirms our existing biases. When we're already struggling, this bias tends to amplify negative experiences, leading to a downward spiral of dissatisfaction and discontentment.  Perception bias can go both ways, meaning your manager/colleagues may (knowingly or unknowingly) attribute your unusual quietness, a low mood or unhappiness to lower performance without there actually being a performance dip (read more on that here).  It can create a perfect storm that makes everything just that much harder.
 
Wait, there's more! Enter burnout, that all-too-familiar state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion resulting from prolonged stress. Burnout can magnify perception bias (for you and/or your manager and colleagues) and make it even harder to feel good about your work (or recover from the blues). When you’re burnt out, your emotional resilience takes a hit, and you’re more likely to interpret situations through a negative lens. You may feel unappreciated, overwhelmed, and resentful, fueling the perception bias that everything is going wrong, giving off signals at work that can be misinterpreted, leading to a vicious cycle.
 
So, what can you do to break free from this perfect storm? As a professional, there are powerful strategies you can employ:

• Self-awareness: 
  If you’re going through a rough patch (and we all have them), recognize the signs of perception bias and burnout within yourself. Take a step back and reflect on your thoughts and reactions. Are they influenced by your biases or burnout symptoms? Awareness is the first step towards positive change and much needed self-compassion.

• Seek feedback and support: 
  Engage in open and honest conversations with trusted colleagues, mentors, a career coach or family/friends. Their perspectives can help you cope with struggles, as well as challenge your biases and offer a fresh outlook on situations.

• Practice empathy and mindfulness:
  Cultivate empathy for yourself and others by considering alternative viewpoints and practicing active listening. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce stress and increase your self-awareness.

• Take care of your emotions:
  Self-compassion is key, but it’s usually the first casualty when faced with challenges in life; it’s also true when you’re approaching burnout.  Prioritize your emotional self-care, staying connected to what you need and establishing (or re-setting) healthy boundaries. Make time for activities you enjoy, practice stress management techniques, and ensure you're getting enough rest, relaxation and (where possible) laughter.

• Seek professional help when needed:
  If your struggles persist, don't hesitate to reach out to a therapist or (if it’s work causing your suffering) a career coach. They can provide guidance, support, and help you develop effective coping strategies.

 
Perception bias at work can be a formidable force, especially when you’re already struggling. When combined with burnout, it can further intensify negative experiences and make it harder to find joy in your professional life. By being aware of your biases, seeking support, and prioritizing emotional self-care, you can weather this storm and create a positive work environment for yourself and those around you.
 
Stay resilient and remember, making yourself a priority isn’t selfish, it’s a necessary part of emotional self-care!