A NEW CHAPTER

Life gives us many wonderful gifts.  One of which is called change.

The one thing I have learned from living my life thus far is that learning is constantly happening and the ability to change is up to me and how I choose to live.  It doesn't matter what age you are or what you have or haven't accomplished in your life so far.

What does matter is that you understand that you have the opportunity to include a new chapter in your journey.  You just have to make the decision and lead from there.

Leadership is not just for business. Leadership is about YOU and the confidence to make decisions and look for to possbilities to thrive!

This could be your best chapter yet!

ALWAYS BE A FOUNTAIN OF GOODNESS

When people think of you, what would they say?

Would you rather be known as someone who was kind, compassionate and did for others as you would want others to do for you?  Or, will they say that you are self serving and treat others poorly and with disrespect?

The most effective way to lead is with clarity of purpose. One of the things that is essential to understand, is that when you shower people with your goodness, meaning heart, skills, talents, attitude etc.., you make a difference! The choice is up to you but the last effect can be long felt after you are gone.

Does that mean you have to be a push over and perceived as weak?  Not at all.
It does mean however, that you think first before reacting and choose to do what is right and just for all.

Photo Credit: Victoria Craig

WHEN THE WHEEL FALLS OFF

The best laid plans can always have glitches.  

It often times doesn't mean that you did anything wrong but rather like a wheel falling off a cart, something got worn down or just fell off as it wasn't fastened tight enough to the main structure, or maybe it was just the wrong fit to begin with.

Take a look at your business, career and your life.

If you feel like you are off track, decide what needs fixing in order to get back on the road.  The only way to gain momentum is to fix what is broken. Figuring out how the right solution however, is often times the the most challenging part. Once you do, the wheels will be rolling and you will be off and moving again.

THE PROBLEMS BEHIND YOU

Are you the type of person who instead of tackling problems as they occur, tend to run away and ignore the situation at hand?  What usually happens is that it starts to amount to something bigger than what it actually was and overtime becomes more challenging to deal with.

Becoming more disciplined and confident in your capacity to deal with conflict, decision making and leadership will slowly enable you to deal with issues in a more seamless and capable way. It takes practice, doesn't often feel good at the time but the relief in having tackled something that is bothering you, far outweighs the pain of having to deal with it when it catches up to you.

Breathe, look at the situation (aside from your emotions) and weigh the impact and outcomes of how you could potentially deal with the problems at hand.  Seek the support of a mentor, colleague, trusted friend or professional if you need a helping hand. Not asking for help is often the problem!

FEATURED SPEAKER: DAN BLACKBURN

Dan Blackburn to be Featured Speaker at momondays London         
September 15th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

DREAM. PLAN. EXECUTE. Dan Blackburn is a dad, coach, international speaker, author and for the last 17 years, Dan has taught people how turn their fears, frustrations and failures into powerful success stories. GIVE UP or RISE UP As a young man, he felt virtually invincible when envisioning his success, yet something was missing; His purpose.

Dan's story is entitled "Journey to Joy Island". While growing up in a loving home, Dan was taught to go after his dreams with all he had. As he grew, he learned that chasing his dreams had limitations and came at a cost. In his late 20's, and after failing again and again, Dan learned that dreams could only be achieved from 'Joy Island'

For more info on Dan, find him at www.howlegendsaremade.com or on Twitter @realdblackburn

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: PAUL HUBERT

Paul Hubert to be Featured Speaker at momondays London         
September 15th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

Paul Hubert is the Executive Director of Pathways Skill Development and for the past 8 years has served on London City Council. Paul has a MA in psychology from the University of Guelph and BA from Western University. He spent 7 years working in Latin America and is fluent in Spanish. He is a pioneering social entrepreneur and passionate about growing people and communities.

Paul's story is entitled "Pivotal Moments". Paul will share key moments and decisions that have shaped his life so far. Moments that have inspired reflection and decisions that have impacted dozens of people and communities.

For more info on Paul, find him at paulhubert.ca or on Twitter @phubert1961

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: JACKIE EMMONS

Jackie Emmons to be Featured Speaker at momondays London         
September 15th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

Jackie Emmons is a bookkeeper by trade. Over the last few years, she has gone through a transformation and completely changed her world. She has now become a speaker and facilitator of change - working with individuals and groups and sharing what she's learned to help them create lives that include joy and laughter, and businesses that give them a sense of fulfillment.

Jackie's story is entitled "Finding My Funny". Two years ago, Jackie Emmons experienced one of the most difficult days of her life. While in her office in downtown London, her phone rang and Jackie received news that would change her life forever. Her sister had been killed in a car accident. Recovering from that loss was what gave her the biggest gift of her life. Learning to laugh again.

For more info on Jackie, find her at jackieemmons.com or on twitter @EmmonsJackie

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: JAMES COOLIDGE

James Coolidge to be Featured Speaker at momondays London         
September 15th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

James Coolidge is the Executive Director of YFC London (Youth for Christ). Having the objective that every youth would discover their full potential, he oversees a dynamic team of young leaders who work with community youth and their families. James is married with 3 daughters and enjoys cycling, nature walks and making new friends at local cafés.

Jame's story is entitled "Finding My Identity". We can easily get lost in the need to be needed and the excitement of success and opportunities. However when this was stripped away from James Coolidge so that he could get some rest to avoid burn-out, he would quickly discover that which was weighing him down was also the source of his identity.

For more info on James, find him at yfclondon.com or on twitter @JamesMCoolidge

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: PAT MUSSIEUX

Pat Mussieux to be Featured Speaker at momondays London         
September 15th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:


As an award-winning entrepreneur, and named one of the “Top 100 Women Entrepreneur Experts to follow on Twitter”, Pat Mussieux is a business coach, professional speaker, author and TV host – on a mission to teach entrepreneurs to achieve financial independence so they can make a difference and live their best life. Much of her joy comes from the title 'Granny Pat'!

Pat's story is entitled "It's Never Too Late". Have you ever told yourself ‘it’s too late for me’? We stay in situations and are just miserable. I was guilty of that.  Having made a major life change at age 55, I am proof that it is never too late to create the life you deserve. I have gone from trash bag to travel around the world in a private plane in less than 5 years. I changed my life and you can, too! If it's to be, it's up to me!

For more info on Pat, find her at wealthywomenleaders.com or on twitter @PatMussieux

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

FEATURED SPEAKER: MIKE DONACHIE

Mike Donachie to be Featured Speaker at momondays London         
September 15th, The Western Fair District on the Yuk Yuk's Stage at 900 King St. London

A Bit About Our Speaker:

Mike Donachie is a reporter/photographer for Metro London. He spent 17 years working for newspapers in Scotland, after completing a law degree with a specialism in international law. His reporting career in Scotland saw him cover all types of news, including the G8 Summit. He has also been a copy editor and a manager in newspaper production. He lives in London with his wife and two young children.

Mike's story is entitled "You Don't Know You Can Till You Try It". As a newspaper journalist, Mike Donachie found himself in a fast-changing world. Valued colleagues were being laid off as media organizations were forced to modernize in tough times, amid falling revenues and scarce resources.
Mike and his family decided not to accept their situation. Instead, they came to Canada in search of new opportunities. But the pace of change has never slowed.
For more info on Mike, find him on Twitter @Mike_Donachie

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!

For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

THE SIGN OF A TENDER HEART

The truth is, there are times when, leading is difficult.   Especially for one who has a big heart, cares about people and wants to make a difference.  For those with the gift of compassion, feeling the responsibility of others can be overwhelming at times.

Don't underestimate the power of someone who is kindhearted and who also leads effectively.
The two can go hand in hand.  Just because you may have soft feelings, doesn't mean you are push over. It just means you are a servant leader and want the best for others often times before yourself.

Believe it or not, this is an endearing quality and people that know you see the authentic side of you and appreciate it.

THE MOMENTS THAT ARE PRICELESS

I am so tired of being around people constantly complaining about money. I do agree that life is frustrating some times when finances are pressed however constantly whining about it it only dilutes the beauty of everything else around you.  Don't forget the beauty in relationships, in the environment, in your children, in your dreams... and the list goes one.  Money is not the the only thing that brings happiness. In fact it is just a byproduct of your hard work and good luck.

Give thanks and be joyous for what you do have in your life.  For those are the things that are priceless.

DON'T LEAVE ROOM FOR REGRETS

Are there things in your life that you regret?

As a serial people pleaser, I have been always one to try and live my life as fully as possible and please others along the way.  There are few things that I look back on and regret other than a few poor business decisions or relationship disappointments.

Learning to become "un-busy" is the best gift you can give yourself. It leaves you breathing room to see opportunities and to take advantage of them when they present themselves. There are interesting places, things and people to be seen, heard and experienced.  One thing I know is that time goes so very quickly and if your excuse is you will do it another time, then the time will most likely never come back again.

Challenge for you:   Make the decision to not leave any room for regrets. When you do, your attitude, actions and outcomes will start to turn into a more positive way of leading your life.

THE FOOTPRINT YOU ARE PROUD OF

Building a legacy starts with being consistent in who you are and what you do.  Having clarity of vision of the mission you are trying to accomplish and knowing the outcome that you hope to make is key to your success.

Leadership is a journey. It's more than a title but rather about the impression that one makes on humankind.  This is not won in a simple action or a one day event but rather your actions, efforts, attitude and ability to connect with others is what makes last change and impact.

Every person has their own leadership style and it is what makes each one of us unique.  Enjoy the process of growing in your own leadership journey and don't forget to lead others with the knowledge that they are also growing in their own leadership capabilities.

DON'T BE AFRAID TO SPREAD YOUR WINGS

The thing about confidence is that it is built upon through experience.

It's easy to do the things you are good at, however, it is a whole other story to tackle the things that challenge, stretch or intimidate you.   There is no telling your full potential unless you try and try and try again.   With experience comes wisdom and through that knowledge you will grow, learn and understand who you are and what you are capable of more and more as you go.

Learning to fly takes time, effort and skill however when you do take flight the feeling is amazing.

Photo Credit: Victoria Craig

PERSPECTIVE CHANGES EVERYTHING

The last week has left me a little numb. Death of a loved one does that to you.

Life can be going along so smoothly and then something happens that makes you look at your life a little differently than before. Life is so precious isn't it?

I think we underestimate that. I think we also underestimate how quickly time passes and that each one of us has an opportunity to make a difference. I don't know how long excuses last though.  Time has a way of turning excuses into regrets and time also has a way of make regrets deeper as the time is no longer there to do anything about them.

I am so thankful that I view my life here on Earth as a gift and even though I screw up once in a while, my heart is directed in the right way and through grace, love and respect for others I consider my life and relationships full. Does it always make it easy?  Absolutely not. But it does make it purposeful and priceless.

BEING FULFILLED

So often we can get caught up with what other people have that we may not have.   We start slipping down the rabbit hole of envy, jealousy and downright anger that what we think we deserve we don't have.

Have you ever considered that success is a state of mind first?

It is born within and is realized externally but by far the largest impact is the belief that you are exactly where you are supposed to be.

I truly believe that achieving a place of fulfillment and peace is the key to living life fully.  To do this, why not consider being grateful for what you do have. (right now at this moment!)

Look around. I guarantee that you are probably more wealthy (monetarily and materially) than the majority of the population of the world.

Learning to be thankful in everything is an amazing way to turn the tide to a more positive view of yourself and your life.  I have known many a person racing at such a fast pace of life (myself included once upon a time)  trying to chase the proverbial dream and becoming busier and busier, when all along you had the opportunity for real authentic happiness right in front of you.. or should I say inside of you.

Food for thought....

Photo credit: Victoria Craig

THE UNIMAGINABLE

Have you ever wanted to do something so badly that you didn't think you had it in you to try?
Exhilaration and just plain amazement comes from overcoming and awe comes from the realization that you did it!

Picture 20,0000 bees covered over your whole face and body all for pure entertainment. Most
would say "not on your life" but once in a while you get someone who says "Here I am. Choose me".

What is your mission?

Take it on. Make it Bold and Do It The Best You Possibly Can!

HOPE CONQUERS DESPAIR

Reminded today that what might seem like the biggest trial God has put you in, always turns into a gift. It almost certainly doesn't look like a gift at the time but with patience, hope and a whole lot of faith the gift of God's love will be revealed.

True wisdom is born out of the experience of pain, suffering, joy and peace...and everything else in between.  It is not gained in a moment but through a life time of experiences.

We are transformed by the renewing of our minds and refreshed by the wonder of life and of the opportunity to become better and more resilient and compassionate of humanity and of our existence.

Take a moment to remember that hope does conquer despair.  Hang in there and you will see.

KEEP SWINGING

Failure.  It just sounds depressing when you say it doesn't it?

Do you ever go through life thinking that everything you try is a complete disappointment?  That, as hard as you work and the more you give, it still doesn't result in the outcomes that you dream of?

There are many success stories out there that didn't happen over night.

It happened through resiliency and grit and with the attitude to keep trying.   You may not have made it yet but you have also learned a number of ways not to get there. Keep swinging my friend.   Wisdom and success often come through practise, commitment, faith and a little luck doesn't hurt either.

CHOOSE WISELY

Do you know what foot in mouth syndrome is?

You know that moment of stupidity when you say something that you totally regret and wish you could wash your mouth out with soap and take it back.  I know a lot of people suffer from this and I think it is time for an intervention.

It is so easy to cause damage with our words.   Often times what we say is more powerful that anything else and can deeply affect another human being for years to come. That also includes sarcasm. You may think you are being funny but believe me, most times the person on the other end of that sarcastic comment is not thinking the same thing.  It is passive aggressive and it is at the expense of another person.

Do yourself and others a favour and think before you speak.

Choose your words wisely.  Communicating positively and effectively in the best way possible will be the best gift you can offer to all relationships in your life.

IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY

Sometimes feel like the little guy in a great big ocean?

Feeling lost or 'at risk' of being hurt is a scary place to be in.  In the midst of adversity try to remember that there is another way to view it.   You see, in the midst of challenges there are also adventures to be had.

In the movie Finding Nemo, Marlin, Nemo's Father was panicked and grief stricken trying to find his son. Through his journey, he made loyal friends, faced his fears and became braver than he would have ever imagined. He also inspired hundreds along the way with his unwavering faith that he would find his son.

What does unwavering faith look like?

Maybe it just means that you keep trying or as Marlin's friend Dorey says, "Just keep swimming".

FORGIVENESS

Would you like a gift today?

This gift is just for you and it is designed to give you contentment, joy and peace.  This is not like any other gift though. In order to unwrap it, you have to open your heart and let go of the feelings that are not serving you well.  This could include anger, bitterness, hatred, disappointment, envy, jealousy and the list goes on.

Learning to forgive others and yourself is freeing and will give you a renewal in your spirit and in your life that you may be longing for.

This gift is for the benefit of you!  Choosing to forgive and meaning it, unlocks the door of the prison that you have put yourself in by harbouring such deep darkness.

Try it and watch how much brighter and lighter your life will seem.

DESIRE TO MOVE

We don't always know what road to take but having the mindset that you want to move forward is half the battle.  I know many people that say they want change but never do anything about it. It is like saying that they want change is enough of an action to make them happy.  However, there are the people whose desire is so deep and so determined for movement and change that they will see it through and make decisions toward that vision.

Does it mean it you always end up where you wanted to go?

Not always.  Sometimes it is an even better result that you never would have realized unless you did the work and try.

STRATEGICALLY DIVERSIFIED

We all have days where we are a wee bit forgetful.

It just so happens that as I get older, this strange occurrence seems to happen more and more often.

So in the spirit of fun and to keep from getting frustrated, I have decided that it is simply because I can multi-task a lot of thoughts in my brain at the same time, which in actual fact, makes me quite a talent, wouldn't you say?

I know what you are thinking. You are awesomely talented as well!  Which just confirms that I have great taste in friends and quite frankly I always knew we are all amazing.

Oh by the way... "Do you know where I put my keys?"

ASK FOR HELP

I don't know where we were taught to go it alone, believing that we should know everything and it would be embarrassing to admit otherwise. Guess what?  A lot of people live with that same message.

If you don't know the answer to something, then ask for help!
If you need something, ask for help?
If you are in trouble, ask for help!
Don't be stubborn. Just do it.

And guess what?  The majority of people out there. loved being valued enough to be asked and will most likely give you a helping hand.

Many times our assumptions can get the better of us. We assume that noone will want to help us share ideas for business, to help write that cover letter or fix up a resume or be a listening ear to talk about life's problems. Whatever it might be, you are wrong.

It takes confidence and courage to ask because being the receiver is often much much harder than being the giver.

You're worth it!

GET MOVING

It's easy to waste another day by lazing around or getting caught up doing the tasks and chores that are on your long list of to do's. Why not add getting outside to your list. The benefits of walking for even 20 minutes a day can impact your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.

It costs nothing but the benefits to your health are invaluable.  

Put your health on that to do list!  One step at a time and just start.  You might even find you like it.

Have fun!

PASSION IS THE FUEL

Have you ever had an idea that just won't go away?

That persistent gnawing at your spirit and you just know it's your time to take it on.  That is where dreams are born. When the passion for your vision wells up and bursts forth and the excitement just makes you giddy and gives you the energy to take the risk.

When everything in life feels like it is happening in multi-colour and nothing seems like it can stand in your way. You are the artist with a vision and are inspired to paint.

Or... maybe you find yourself with a lot of tools or skills in your life but lacking any passion to use them fully. Unable to grasp a vision, those special skills are just sitting dormant and waiting to be expressed.  Ideas don't have to be big. They can be just the smallest spark of inspiration.  It is often in  those small moments that beauty is uncovered.