Assess Morale: Know When “They” Aren’t Happy

Eggs with a grimace emoji painted on it. Assess Morale: Know When "They" Aren't Happy

The gorillas are the emotional barometer in a zoo. I learned this recently from a leader at an engineering design firm.  He was talking about a project he led inside a zoo; construction would stop and start based on the gorillas’ moods.  If the gorillas were happy, the construction would commence.  If the gorillas weren’t … Read more

Differing Ambitions? Some Things Are Universal.

battered necklace that says Ambition - Differing Ambitions? Some Things Are Universal.

My well-intentioned mom told me to marry rich. She often hinted that many girls go to college to get their “MRS” degree and it wouldn’t hurt to study at the law library.  (Subtle, mom!) For some reason, she believed personal ambitions were best achieved through someone else.    Fortunately, my mom was highly supportive of me … Read more

Is Your Career “Stuck?” Here’s What to Do About It.

frozen roses - Is Your Career “Stuck?” Here’s What to Do About It.

Some people like puzzles. Others like games. For me, I love writing … there’s no greater joy than getting a piece to a place where you can hit “send.” Take the time to read this piece I penned for Fast Company. This article offers career advice to professionals who feel stuck to supercharge their work/life … Read more

Teach People How To Treat You

chalkboard with the word 'thoughts' written on it - Teach People How To Treat You

“Can I make you more comfortable as you insult me?” So, I’ve never actually said that. Yet, my behavior in the past might have communicated that. You see, I’m a recovering people pleaser. While I still aim to make my interactions with others positive, I don’t do so at my own expense.  I used to … Read more

How Many Opportunities Do You Lose by Not Being Prepared?

photo with the words 'Opportunity Knocks' written on it. How Many Opportunities Do You Lose by Not Being Prepared?

I used to live in Los Angeles and, due to good luck, would land invitations to fancy Hollywood movie premieres and after parties.  While all these experiences were memorable, one in particular stands out. It was rumored that Christian Slater was going to be at this premiere. I had a massive crush on him growing … Read more

Let’s Talk about Soft Power.

Woman's fist in the air with backlit peach background - Let’s Talk about Soft Power.

“You don’t look like a Marine.” If I had a dime for how many times I’ve heard that statement, I’d probably have a personal chef and own a coin-operated car wash. (My dreams aren’t fancy. The car wash is really about passive income.) Anyway … When I was an active-duty Marine, that comment made me … Read more

Transform Workplace Jealousy into Admiration

Pretty moth on a twig - Transform Workplace Jealousy into Admiration

I’m not too proud to admit that I’ve been jealous before.  The earliest memory I have is when I went to summer camp in elementary school with a friend, Mindy. Mindy was the life of the party – all the camp counselors gave her attention. Fellow campers wanted to sit next to her during campfires. … Read more