FIGURING IT OUT

How many times have you looked at someone else and wished you were more like them?  Interesting isn't it, because you probably don't realize that others are most likely doing the same to you.

Each one of us has so much potential. The fact that we all have our own unique footprint in this world, gives us the opportunity to be unique and to make a difference in a very personal way.

Before you try and duplicate what someone else is doing, figure out who you are and what you stand for.  Shine your light and bring meaning to what you care about.

What is important to you and how can you use that passion to be a beacon of hope to others?

Everyone has a fit! I truly believe that.  If you don't know how you can positively contribute to this beautiful world, then find some resources, a mentor or a coach to help you with your journey.

The light is in there.  Just waiting to be turned up so it can reflect outwards.

TENDING THE GARDEN

Mental health and the growing burden of stress has become a rampant problem. 1 in 3 people in North America alone suffer from some time of mental health issue.

We all experience stress in some way shape or form. Learning smart coping skills and ways to alleviate some of the daily pressure helps. For those that are courageous and bold enough, taking the time to dig deep to uncover feelings of failure, fear, despair, disappointment, bitterness etc... will be the first step in truly discovering what it means to be released from those life sucking emotions.

As a coach, it is amazing to see the transformation that happens when I see people face their past and their perceptions and start to intentionally make positive change.   The first step is often the hardest but just like running, you get stronger with each passing step and you learn to be resiliency and eventually you find joy and fulfillment in the work you have put in.

REMINDERS FROM THE MOST UNEXPECTED PLACES

Too often we forget that there is love around us.

In our quest to suppress our stress or anxiety, it is human nature to want to push people away.  How contradictory this is, as it is in our times of uncertainty that we need more signs of love.

This leaf popped out at me, reminding me that if I open my eyes and really take in life around me, there are always reminders of love.   I guess you have to be willing to look for it so it can show itself to you too.

JUST PLAIN HAPPY

There is something about sunshine that just makes me happy.

Whether it is reflecting off of an icy lake or those lazy hazy warm weather days where you bask in the peacefulness of the warmth and the light.

We are all solar powered in some way and need light to build vitamin D and a healthier state of mind.  Give your body and your emotional wellness a gift and get outside and move, embracing those glorious sunny days.

PS.  Don't forget your sunscreen!

BECAUSE OF YOU

I have done a lot of things throughout my life.  From professional theatre, to broadcasting, to marriage, to motherhood, to teaching kayaking and canoeing, to entrepreneurship, to rappelling and hiking through deep caves and the list of thousands of things goes on...

Experiences have solicited feelings of fulfilment, excitement, pride, meaning, purpose and pure joy.  The other side of this is that I have also had experiences where I have disappointed people and myself, I have mourned the loss of those I care about and never had a enough time and been frustrated at things not coming together.  I have failed at entrepreneurship and have let people down.   Living life fully means you have both sides of this coin to experience.

Deep in my heart I choose to make a difference.

My purpose is to help people love and appreciate life, their work and their communities but I know that I have to be anchored into that same vision as well, in order to be authentically true and impactful.

Are you trying to make an impact in your world?  Are you walking the talk and living the best that you can?  Start by keeping yourself inspired.   When you have the "spark", others see it and feel it and want that too.  Live life fully!  That is best gift to you and to others.

THE KEY TO BEING A GREAT LEADER

In today's world, it is so easy to pick out exceptional leaders. With a workforce that is statistically over 80% disengaged it takes a special person to connect and engage their people effectively.

I am sure as you are reading this you can name at least one or two individuals that are top of mind as amazing people who impacted your life in some positive way.

Great leaders have figured out how to make things work better. It's their job!

To lead vision and engage their team to want to fulfill what is set out in front of them.   The key to being a great leader is to know what doors to open and when to close doors. Finding new opportunities or new ways of managing change and growth can be painful and frustrating.  The great leaders however continually figure it out in such a way that it appears seamless and easy.

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS

Don't be the person that at the end of your life you reflect back with regret about all of the things you should have done. 

Be the person who tries new things, accepts big challenges and pursues big dreams.

Be the person who is optimist, resilient and hopeful and has the tenacity to keep on racing for that dream.

RECIPROCAL JOY

The little things really do matter.  When I think about joy, I think about those moments in my life where even a smile is accepted as a special and meaningful exchange.  Here is a moment in my life while in Liberia, Africa, enjoying these sweet, sweet children and boy did we ever share in moments of joy.

Even though you may have a mission that is wide and far reaching, never forget that it takes many moments and experiences to get you to that final point.

FEATURED SPEAKER: FELIPE GOMES

Felipe Gomes to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
June 9th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

Felipe Gomes is the President of F.G. International Corp., Aroma Restaurant & Aroma Cafe.  Felipe was born in Lisbon however has been a longtime resident of London for 25 years. He is married with two children and is a passionate community advocate for many causes in our city.   He has a Diploma in Administration and Finance from Cornell University in New York, and has developed extensive executive experience and a respected career within the hospitality and tourism industry.  

Felipe's  story is entitled "That Sweet Sweet Aroma". 

In this authentic story, Felipe shares his experience being raised with 13 siblings and what he has learned from his Mother.   He has a self designated masters degree in life teachings and his entire life's journey so far has been pursuing how to make a better world for those that cross his path.   

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: ROBERT SINDEN

Robert Sinden to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
June 9th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

Robert Sinden is married to the same beautiful woman and challenging career for 41 years. He and Ellenore have 2 daughters and 3 grandchildren. He is a Master Financial Advisor and works with Ellenore and his daughter, Alison, in Sinden Financial Group Inc. His greatest accomplishments are helping clients, family and friends see their present clearly, design their future wisely, and get there safely.

Robert's story is entitled "I Started Out As A Child". In this engaging story, Robert takes you on a funny, introspective trip that will make you laugh, cry, and think. You will be encouraged to "push back your horizons and release the brakes." Buckle up. You're in for a ride.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: SARAH HILTON

Sarah Hilton to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
June 9th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Sarah Hilton has worked over 20 years in the Mental Health field. Through her experiences she has come to recognize the importance of speaking out and has taken this mission on. Her passion and her goal for the future; to stop silence, stigma and suicide by speaking out and training workplaces on Mental Health. Sarah shares her story, to help you know it's ok to share your story.

Sarah's story is entitled "From Obstacle to Opportunity".  Through bankruptcy, to succeeding in a successful business of 7 years, there is always a lesson or two. Everyone will have obstacles within their dreams; the answer lies within the obstacle, can you find it? In this story you will hear, see and experience the power of opportunity.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: RENATE DONNOVAN

Renate Donnovan to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
June 9th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Renate Donnovan has 20 years’ experience as a facilitator in the human potential field. She is an executive and personal coach, a Master NLP Practitioner, has a Master’s Degree in Leadership and is one of the few counselling hypnotists who specializes in hypnosis for leadership development and success. She is also the co-host of momondaysGUELPH. You can get more Renate atwww.emergencehypnotherapy.com 

Renate's story is entitled "Just The Floor. What I Learned From A Hoarder About Being Adequate".     As a Counselling Hypnotist, Renate works with wonderful people who have interesting (and sometimes unusual) challenges. Most of those people think they are going to Renate for help, however more often than not, something about each person touches Renate's heart and teaches her even greater compassion.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

ARE YOU A GREAT LEADER?

Leadership might seem like a daunting task but it really doesn't have to be. 

Here are a few simple reminders to set yourself on the road for a rewarding journey with your team. 

1. Decide what your ideal team looks like. 
2. Identify current issues and desired changes to be made
3. Get "super" clear about what outcomes you want for your team, 
4. Commit to a plan to get there, 
5. Communicate the plan clearly and understandably for all, and 
6. Confidently lead the way.

If you have to make changes then pivot with the same purpose as above and keep moving forward. 

And most of all, consider it a privilege and not a burden to lead so enjoy the ride.

Photo credit:Victoria Craig

FEATURED SPEAKER: DR. REINA PERSAUD

Dr. Reina Persaud to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
June 9th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Dr. Reina Persaud’s opportunities to travel the world taught her to be a better practitioner and to understand her true self. A busy practice with a diversity of people and conditions help keep her connected with aspects of healing. Patient’s emotional well-being, knowledge of their physical health and serenity in their spiritual path are shared goals of those she supports.

Reina's story is entitled "Finding My Identity".  As an only child of immigrant parents growing up in London, ON,  Reina struggled for a place to belong. She felt that she needed to leave London to find somewhere to relate to. After travelling around the world, experiencing impoverished countries and working with people who had to overcome day to day struggles, she realized how blessed she is to be here in London, ON. Her home-the place where she belongs.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: BLAIR HENRY

Blair Henry to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
June 9th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:
A dynamic leader and change agent, Blair Henry instills organizations with energy, focus and cutting edge tools to garner superior results. With a strong belief that business thinking, tactics and analytics can affect social change, Blair travels the world (and drags his family with him) working on projects that are open to this new way of thinking.

Blair's story is entitled "Crazy Love".  Too often in love and life we give up just before the pay-off. Persisting through tough times creates strength and comfort and security that love alone can never bring.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

BUILDING SUBSTANCE

Often times we worry about what others think or how successful our career or lives can be.

What about taking the time to deeply consider the fruits of your efforts and what kind of legacy you can leave.  As a constant people pleaser, this to me seems like a much better focus on what I could do to impact rather than overworking to change the mindsets of others.

Each one of us as the capacity to do great things.  Far beyond our own capabilities or beliefs.  In letting go and allowing yourself to learn and experience new things, something cool will happen.  New ideas will be born and you will start to have an innovating and dreaming about what is possible rather than listening to what is not possible.

Commit to making a a difference and what you see as your impact is most likely a lot far reaching than you could ever imagine.

A WEED OR A WISH?

What lens are you viewing life from these days?

Perspective is an interesting thing isn't it?  What one person might think a waste of time, another picks it up and runs with it only to create something beautiful from it.

Never ever stop wishing!  The right thing of for you is out there and will be worth picking.
Just you wait and see.

CULTIVATE CURIOSITY

I have always been of the belief that you have to continually be curious. It is through having curiosity and showing an interest in your life that you will start to cultivate opportunities, ideas and confidence.

Never stop being interested in your life.

It is your's to live and your's alone. Stop second guessing your potential. You DO have the capacity to learn, you DO have the capacity to grow and you DO have the capacity to seek your undiscovered potential.

Make this a day of curiosity. Build wonderment and intrigue into your vocabulary of life's gifts still to be discovered.

Wait until you see what happens....

CREATING BEAUTY

I was given this cool glass vase yesterday. It was the kind of gift that made me ponder what I was going to do with it and then my creativity spirit kicked in.   I discovered the joy of simply just being in the moment with me, my thoughts and some flowers.

I sometimes forget how much I enjoy being creative, whether it is writing, painting, decorating, playing with children, cooking and the list goes on.

I must do more of it!  For now, this little arrangement will grace my countertop as a reminder to never forget to have fun.

IT'S ALL ABOUT INTEGRITY

Do what you say and say what you do!

That's right. Integrity means something. It really does. We can spot the fake ones a mile away but the people who are true to their word and live and work authentically are those that leave a lasting legacy.

Leave the money aside and choose to be integral with your words and your actions.

You will be blessed by your character and how you live your life.

AN HONOUR AND A PRIVILEGE

Serving others is just what I have been raised to do.  Caring for others and taking the time to show them including your the giving of your time, your ability to listen, your effort in assisting or helping in some way .. well the list is endless of what you could do.

The more important part to this, is having the mindset that it is not beneath you to serve others but rather a privilege and an honour that has been given to you to do it well.

Perhaps you are in a career in social services or health care and you are burned out. Remember the reason why you went into your chosen field in the first place. Maybe you work for a not for profit and are tired from not feeling valued or respected. Just think of the outcome that you are making.. even if you can't see it now, you are planting seeds for someone else to water.

If you are dealing with childcare and elder care at the same time, it is exhausting I know, but when the time is gone and you look back, will you be thankful you had that time?  Most likely.  If you are in a church and have an opportunity to serve others, do you take the gift that is being offered to you or pass it off for someone else to do because it is viewed as a chore?

Change your mindset, recommit to the most important job of all.
Loving others as you would like to be loved yourself.

EVEN THE SIMPLEST OF ACTIONS

Yesterday someone opened the door for me. You might think "so what Paula" but this person was laden down carrying supplies and had some physical challenges as well. Yet, in his own discomfort, it was the effort to be kind that reminded me that even the simplest of actions make a difference.

I started thinking to myself how many times a day do we miss those moments where we have the absolute privilidge to be considerate kind and to make a difference.

It really is in the simple actions, moments and words that can impact and make a really powerful impact.

MEET MATT LEBLANC - SPOTLIGHT GUEST - BRAND YOU JUNE 2nd, 2014

When I think about entrepreneurs and the art of creative branding , Matt LeBlanc always comes to mind.  A former advertising account manager, Matt decided to leave his chosen career and pursue his passion. He had always had a passion for painting and finally decided to make the jump to entrepreneurship.  From day one, Matt has been making waves, disrupting the traditional mindset of the starving artist and has built a recognizable brand and a lucrative business and also runs a foundation.

This award winning entrepreneur stretches his potential constantly and we are really looking forward to featuring him at our "Building Brand You" Event on June 2nd at The Western Fair District. 900 King St. London on the 2nd floor.

For ticket information, go to paulamorand.com/events
OR check out our Facebook group @BRAND YOU - VIP EVENT

ASSEMBLE YOUR PARACHUTE

How often in life do we miss opportunities because we are waiting until everything is "just right" before we begin?  I have been an entrepreneur for a long time now and have worked with thousands of entrepreneurs over the years.  One of the key things that I have learned during this time s is that opportunities never come with directions.  If you want to cultivate new opportunities, start now!

As an entrepreneur, learning how pitch a concept, get buy in and then build what the customer wants is a terrific way to build a customer centric company.

It may feel pressured, and that you are free falling toward failure, but how thrilling and what a rush it is...and don't worry. You will get it all pulled together and figured out because that's what entrepreneurs do.

IN A FOG

We all have those times in life when everything seems cloudy or you may resonate with the more professional term 'blah".

Try as you might, you just can't seem to get out of your funk as it as it just feels too heavy or the solution is to unclear.  If that is the case, look for the little things that you see as beauty.

Start seeing them around you, like this plant or a person or something that brings great memories.
It may be through seeing the little things that the fog will start to clear and the path and true beauty will be revealed around you.

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS... THEY KNOW THE WAY

Dreaming is important. It really is.  It lights the passion in your belly and hope in your soul.  It fosters creativity and problem solving and it always looks to find solutions.

Dreaming helps to keep steering you in the right direction as to how you want to live your life.

Never underestimate the power of your dreams and, even if you don't have it all figured out, take a moment and enjoy the ride... and the view!

ON THE OTHER SIDE

Trying new things are at times not for the faint of heart.   When we are stretched to learn, experience or discover new things, often times, it can spur fear, anxiety or bring about trepidation.

The good news is that 9 times out of 10 once you are on the other side of pushing yourself, you realize that you have overcome and it wasn't that bad after all.

The best education you can ever get is through experiencing life. Go live, live, live... because really experiencing life just might mean a whole lot more than you realize.

WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED

Every single day there is beauty and possibility waiting to be discovered.  When you start your day expectant of finding those things, you will set yourself up for living and being grateful in a more intentional way.

Today, the possibility of new beginnings and bright moments are right in front of you. Reach out to someone you love, write down that new idea or just bask in the moment of gratitude that life really is more special than you may realize.

AGAINST ALL ODDS

I am always so inspired by people who show resiliency to life's curveballs.

The one's who overcome struggles and come out the other side stronger, wiser and with understanding and empathy to help others.

It is not the problem that influences but rather how you handle the problem that inspires.

OPEN THE DOOR

There are many lessons I have learned in life so far.  One of them is to stop whining about what you don't have but rather start opening doors to what you do want to have.   This was really illustrated to me a number of years ago in watching a very outgoing 21 year old, open the most amazing doors of opportunity, just by being resilient, tenacious and optimistic about what he wanted.

The fact is, it is simple. If you want better health, open that door and get going.  If you want more business, find those doors of opportunity. If you want a career change, the same goes for you.

Will it take time, energy, focus, determination, grit and persistence? You bet!

For anything worth having is worth working for.

THE BEST WAY

It always makes me feel more confident when I have a terrific pair of shoes to stand tall in.
What is even better though is to have the confidence and courage to walk in them without fear of falling or slipping.  It's a great analogy to relate to our life's dreams.

What is stopping you from being confident about pursuing the path you know you really want to take?  What would it feel like to envision yourself walking in the perfect pair of shoes toward your perfect outcome.  That dream job, that perfect holiday or that wishful thinking that always reminds you of what it would be like to be an entrepreneur.

Who said the road has to be paved with challenges and suffering?

Maybe the road is paved with all things glitter and gold and all you have to do to see it is to adjust your attitude, your perceptions or your actions.

Something to ponder...

LEADERSHIP THROUGH SERVICE

Did you know the main person usually standing in the way between fulfilling your dreams and where you are right now is You?

Many many years ago my husband and I made the decision to go and serve the world wherever we were planted. If that meant moving, so be it, as long as we were doing work that mattered.  We collectively decided to say "yes" and ask God to use our talents and our gifts accordingly and to provide opportunities to be of service.  The last 16 years have brought incredible experiences, opportunities and of course learning and refining for us as individuals and as a family. Sometimes easy and yes, sometimes challenging.  Sometimes frustrating and many more times joyful and fulfilling. All of it worth throughout the journey so far has offered many lessons and a myriad of memories.

Isaiah 6:8 "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"

All it takes to start is the willingness to say Yes and then the obedience to take action.
The best leadership skills you will ever learn is to be of service to others.

TESTIMONIAL - "WHEN THE CANDLE BURNS BRIGHT"

A few years ago, I had the extreme pleasure of working with a corporate professional from Canada's west coast.  During our coaching sessions, a transformation of confidence and clarity of vision directly impacted and exponentially changed the outlook of this focused and assertive woman.

Here is her letter:

Paula,
Life is great, well now anyway.   Upon completion of our year working together, I became much more conscious in how I am in control of my life.   I bravely grabbed ahold of the reigns and finally made some much needed decisions that start a ripple effect of so many WONDERFUL things that I was dreaming would happen.  We have spoken so many times of how our perception of our current situation can have such a firm grip, literally holding us back from the potential that we could be living. I am forever grateful for the nudges and the swift kick once in a while too!   

I can see how you completely and totally moved me through and out of a period of not trusting my own instinct and leadership capabilities to where I am today. I am so thrilled to say that although challenging many times, I feel as though I have finally found my groove once again ... but even better.  I feel as though I am leading much more effectively while honouring my vision, passion and goals for where I want to go and how I am going to get there.  My career feels brand new with a breath of fresh air again.  

Thanks for helping me to light the candle again. It's burning bright!

THE MOST ENGAGING STORY

There is something powerful about hearing someone else's story.

It is a way that we can see the authenticity of the person telling it and we get the privilege of understanding a piece of their journey that uniquely defines who they are.

Have you ever stopped to consider that your life experiences mean something?

That you have many "spark stories" as I call them. Those stories that spark meaning, understanding, belief or just allow the opportunity for someone to ask questions. It is through stories, that we can make a big impact and even change lives.

Don't ever undervalue your story. You may think you have nothing engaging to share but I know you do and we are waiting to hear it.

THE WISDOM OF WRINKLES

Have you ever consider that the wrinkles you may have are uniquely special to you?
From laugh lines, to deep lines of stress and hardship, all of them make up the journey you have lived so far.

When I meet people as they get older and see wrinkles, I know there must be myriads of stories to be shared and that there must be a lot of life wisdom to be learned from listening to that person.

Don't be ashamed of wrinkles. Maybe they are a gift to remind you that you have lived and that you have learned many important life lessons along the way.

Embrace who you are and remember to never be ashamed of a few wrinkles.

MATERIAL THINGS

It is so easy to get caught up in the things that you "want" to have.  Those material things that might set you apart in status, bring you comfort or you just "need" to have because you want it and feel you deserve it.

Years ago, while in Central Asia, I met hundreds of children who needed to have a lot of things.  These beautiful children lived in abject poverty and were either abandoned and raising themselves or  surviving with limited means with their families.

I have learned an important lesson throughout the years especially through different people, cultures and situations, that money doesn't not mean anything unless you can use it for good.  I have learned that love is by far the richest and most meaningful act of kindness that you can show to people.

Want to make a positive difference?  Start with giving people your attention, your concern and before you know it the love in your heart will start a fire of purpose that will set you on a path to "wanting" to figure out how you can do other things to help someone that might be disadvantaged.

SMOOTH RIDE

Who said life was a smooth ride?  No one did.   Have you ever looked at someone else with envy thinking they "have it all together" and it all just "seems to come so easy for them"?  The truth is, that more often than not, the journey was difficult and full of challenges along the way.

Don't underestimate anyone's journey.

Wisdom is gained through those things that we experience through living.  The things we risk and the things we do to pursue excellence or success.  None of it is ever in vain.   In the end, the blender may be temporary but the outcome in some way shape or form is always smoother.

WHEN LIFE IS CALLING

Your life is calling.  It wants you to know that you are meant for something extraordinary.

Hey, just because you may think you aren't the newest trend or aren't the most popular or the most up to date, you still have something to offer.

Your influence comes by what you do more than who you are.   So, just because you may feel like the older than the rest, doesn't mean that your skills, abilities, aptitude or attitude can shine bright and make a difference.

The question is, "Are you going to answer the call?"

THE BIGGEST DRIVER OF CHANGE

Do you realize that you have the power to influence, to lead and to encourage change?

Managing change whether as an individual or as an organization can often be disruptive, chaotic and spur disengagement and yes, negativity.

To create an environment of what I call "dynamic transformation", there are a few core things that will help you navigate in an easier fashion.

1. Create Ownership - You want change?  Well the best and fastest way to drive it is to own the decision and the plan that change must happen... and that YOU will be playing at part in that process.

2. Communication is Key - Clearly understand the journey as you see it and communicate with other parties so that all are on the same page as you move through the transition.  If it is just you, then give yourself some grace and know that fear and uncertainty go with the territory but that excitement elicits the same emotions so try and move through it in a positive manner.

3. Celebrate Milestones - Learning to celebrate the small wins and milestones along the way will absolutely change the trajectory of how you manage and embrace change in the future.  Instead of focusing on what hasn't happened yet, how about focusing on what has.