It’s easy to lay blame when things don’t go right. People blame the weather for how they’re feeling. They blame the economy for their own financial situation. Schoolyards, boardrooms and the halls of
Monday, May 18, 2009
It’s your fault. There, I feel better.
It’s your fault. There, I feel better.
It’s easy to lay blame when things don’t go right. People blame the weather for how they’re feeling. They blame the economy for their own financial situation. Schoolyards, boardrooms and the halls of
Thursday, May 14, 2009
The Parallels Between Leaders and Artists
I have been thinking again about the parallels between leaders and artists. When a person has a vivid and compelling vision that others want to follow, that person becomes a leader.
A writer can find inspiration in a variety of things, from lint to a sunset. When they are able to weave those elements of inspiration into a story and inspire others, they become an author.
At on point, all leaders and artists have a feeling of uncertainty. For some, it festers into insecurity. The suffering artist or burdened leader is a cliché. Uncertainly is fine. It is threaded throughout the fabric of life. However, people seldom follow the insecure. Healthy self-esteem and confidence are the hallmarks of successful leaders and artists.
A writer can find inspiration in a variety of things, from lint to a sunset. When they are able to weave those elements of inspiration into a story and inspire others, they become an author.
At on point, all leaders and artists have a feeling of uncertainty. For some, it festers into insecurity. The suffering artist or burdened leader is a cliché. Uncertainly is fine. It is threaded throughout the fabric of life. However, people seldom follow the insecure. Healthy self-esteem and confidence are the hallmarks of successful leaders and artists.
The Parallels Between Leaders and Artists
I have been thinking again about the parallels between leaders and artists. When a person has a vivid and compelling vision that others want to follow, that person becomes a leader.
A writer can find inspiration in a variety of things, from lint to a sunset. When they are able to weave those elements of inspiration into a story and inspire others, they become an author.
At on point, all leaders and artists have a feeling of uncertainty. For some, it festers into insecurity. The suffering artist or burdened leader is a cliché. Uncertainly is fine. It is threaded throughout the fabric of life. However, people seldom follow the insecure. Healthy self-esteem and confidence are the hallmarks of successful leaders and artists.
A writer can find inspiration in a variety of things, from lint to a sunset. When they are able to weave those elements of inspiration into a story and inspire others, they become an author.
At on point, all leaders and artists have a feeling of uncertainty. For some, it festers into insecurity. The suffering artist or burdened leader is a cliché. Uncertainly is fine. It is threaded throughout the fabric of life. However, people seldom follow the insecure. Healthy self-esteem and confidence are the hallmarks of successful leaders and artists.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Leaders and Artists
Leaders and Artists show passion.
Leaders and Artists tell great stories.
Leaders and Artists practice their skills.
Leaders and Artists understand form and function.
Leaders and Artists have a consistent point of view.
Leaders and Artists know their strengths and limitations.
Leaders and Artists work with their head, hands and heart.
Leaders and Artists stand on the shoulders of those who taught them.
Leaders and Artists are never really “done”; they can always find something to improve.
Leaders and Artists tell great stories.
Leaders and Artists practice their skills.
Leaders and Artists understand form and function.
Leaders and Artists have a consistent point of view.
Leaders and Artists know their strengths and limitations.
Leaders and Artists work with their head, hands and heart.
Leaders and Artists stand on the shoulders of those who taught them.
Leaders and Artists are never really “done”; they can always find something to improve.
Leaders and Artists
Leaders and Artists show passion.
Leaders and Artists tell great stories.
Leaders and Artists practice their skills.
Leaders and Artists understand form and function.
Leaders and Artists have a consistent point of view.
Leaders and Artists know their strengths and limitations.
Leaders and Artists work with their head, hands and heart.
Leaders and Artists stand on the shoulders of those who taught them.
Leaders and Artists are never really “done”; they can always find something to improve.
Leaders and Artists tell great stories.
Leaders and Artists practice their skills.
Leaders and Artists understand form and function.
Leaders and Artists have a consistent point of view.
Leaders and Artists know their strengths and limitations.
Leaders and Artists work with their head, hands and heart.
Leaders and Artists stand on the shoulders of those who taught them.
Leaders and Artists are never really “done”; they can always find something to improve.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Who do you know that you wish more people could meet?
Who is the person in your life who you most wanted to introduce to other people? For me it was my grandfather. He was of another era. His voice, cadence and dialect were like watching an old Frank Capra or George Cukor movie from the 1940's. He was always ready with amusing stories, riddles or a practical joke.
Growing up we would visit nearly every Sunday and spend a few hours with him and my grandmother. One of my favorite memories of him, and I learned one of his favorite of me too, was the day he was pitching tennis balls to my wiffle ball bat in the back yard. I was fairly young and I was dismal and I was getting frustrated with myself. Embarrassed, I collected several of the missed balls that were scattered by my feet and tossed them back to him so we could try again. A few rolled behind him and into the bushes forcing him to crawl in to retrieve them. My frustration grew; I couldn't even toss a ball right. I was determined to hit the next pitch with all my might.
He brushed himself off, paused for a moment, asked if I was ready and then hurled the brightly colored ball at me. I concentrated and hit it perfectly on the fat part of the bat with an exploding crack. Literally, the 'ball' exploded into hundreds of little pieces! At first I was scared, what had I done now? Then I was bewildered as my grandfather began laughing heartily, like Santa Claus, but much more mischievous. As we walked toward each other he held out his hand and revealed three large unripe crabapples, the same coloring as the balls he had been pitching me. He had switched them when he was in the bushes. He was equal parts thoroughly amused with himself and proud of me for finally getting a hit squarely and forcefully, with a smaller object to boot. My expression seared itself on his memory. From that point on he would periodically begin laughing spontaneously during our visits and retell the story for the next twenty or so years.
I loved when he told stories. They could be from his childhood or from a recent visit to the doctor, he always had an anecdote. During our visits he would hold court from his leather chair in the corner of the living room, or in the dining room sitting in the only armed chair. In the den he would faithfully watch the Red Sox or Patriots during the time when they were contenders but not yet regular champions.
One of the saddest days of my life was helping him into the car at the funeral of my aunt, his youngest daughter. His sudden sobs were unexpected, heartbreaking and profound. In time, the stories, riddles and jokes returned even as his health began to decline. We were fortunate to have him grace this earth for nearly a century. Although he has been gone for several years now, whenever I hear a story or riddle well told or witness a prank well played, I think of him and smile. Lately, I find myself remembering him and wishing more people could have met him and benefitted from his humor and class.
Who do you know that you wish more people could meet? How many people are being introduced to you? Share your gifts freely and with great authenticity, because the world will be better for it.
Growing up we would visit nearly every Sunday and spend a few hours with him and my grandmother. One of my favorite memories of him, and I learned one of his favorite of me too, was the day he was pitching tennis balls to my wiffle ball bat in the back yard. I was fairly young and I was dismal and I was getting frustrated with myself. Embarrassed, I collected several of the missed balls that were scattered by my feet and tossed them back to him so we could try again. A few rolled behind him and into the bushes forcing him to crawl in to retrieve them. My frustration grew; I couldn't even toss a ball right. I was determined to hit the next pitch with all my might.
He brushed himself off, paused for a moment, asked if I was ready and then hurled the brightly colored ball at me. I concentrated and hit it perfectly on the fat part of the bat with an exploding crack. Literally, the 'ball' exploded into hundreds of little pieces! At first I was scared, what had I done now? Then I was bewildered as my grandfather began laughing heartily, like Santa Claus, but much more mischievous. As we walked toward each other he held out his hand and revealed three large unripe crabapples, the same coloring as the balls he had been pitching me. He had switched them when he was in the bushes. He was equal parts thoroughly amused with himself and proud of me for finally getting a hit squarely and forcefully, with a smaller object to boot. My expression seared itself on his memory. From that point on he would periodically begin laughing spontaneously during our visits and retell the story for the next twenty or so years.
I loved when he told stories. They could be from his childhood or from a recent visit to the doctor, he always had an anecdote. During our visits he would hold court from his leather chair in the corner of the living room, or in the dining room sitting in the only armed chair. In the den he would faithfully watch the Red Sox or Patriots during the time when they were contenders but not yet regular champions.
One of the saddest days of my life was helping him into the car at the funeral of my aunt, his youngest daughter. His sudden sobs were unexpected, heartbreaking and profound. In time, the stories, riddles and jokes returned even as his health began to decline. We were fortunate to have him grace this earth for nearly a century. Although he has been gone for several years now, whenever I hear a story or riddle well told or witness a prank well played, I think of him and smile. Lately, I find myself remembering him and wishing more people could have met him and benefitted from his humor and class.
Who do you know that you wish more people could meet? How many people are being introduced to you? Share your gifts freely and with great authenticity, because the world will be better for it.
Who do you know that you wish more people could meet?
Who is the person in your life who you most wanted to introduce to other people? For me it was my grandfather. He was of another era. His voice, cadence and dialect were like watching an old Frank Capra or George Cukor movie from the 1940's. He was always ready with amusing stories, riddles or a practical joke.
Growing up we would visit nearly every Sunday and spend a few hours with him and my grandmother. One of my favorite memories of him, and I learned one of his favorite of me too, was the day he was pitching tennis balls to my wiffle ball bat in the back yard. I was fairly young and I was dismal and I was getting frustrated with myself. Embarrassed, I collected several of the missed balls that were scattered by my feet and tossed them back to him so we could try again. A few rolled behind him and into the bushes forcing him to crawl in to retrieve them. My frustration grew; I couldn't even toss a ball right. I was determined to hit the next pitch with all my might.
He brushed himself off, paused for a moment, asked if I was ready and then hurled the brightly colored ball at me. I concentrated and hit it perfectly on the fat part of the bat with an exploding crack. Literally, the 'ball' exploded into hundreds of little pieces! At first I was scared, what had I done now? Then I was bewildered as my grandfather began laughing heartily, like Santa Claus, but much more mischievous. As we walked toward each other he held out his hand and revealed three large unripe crabapples, the same coloring as the balls he had been pitching me. He had switched them when he was in the bushes. He was equal parts thoroughly amused with himself and proud of me for finally getting a hit squarely and forcefully, with a smaller object to boot. My expression seared itself on his memory. From that point on he would periodically begin laughing spontaneously during our visits and retell the story for the next twenty or so years.
I loved when he told stories. They could be from his childhood or from a recent visit to the doctor, he always had an anecdote. During our visits he would hold court from his leather chair in the corner of the living room, or in the dining room sitting in the only armed chair. In the den he would faithfully watch the Red Sox or Patriots during the time when they were contenders but not yet regular champions.
One of the saddest days of my life was helping him into the car at the funeral of my aunt, his youngest daughter. His sudden sobs were unexpected, heartbreaking and profound. In time, the stories, riddles and jokes returned even as his health began to decline. We were fortunate to have him grace this earth for nearly a century. Although he has been gone for several years now, whenever I hear a story or riddle well told or witness a prank well played, I think of him and smile. Lately, I find myself remembering him and wishing more people could have met him and benefitted from his humor and class.
Who do you know that you wish more people could meet? How many people are being introduced to you? Share your gifts freely and with great authenticity, because the world will be better for it.
Growing up we would visit nearly every Sunday and spend a few hours with him and my grandmother. One of my favorite memories of him, and I learned one of his favorite of me too, was the day he was pitching tennis balls to my wiffle ball bat in the back yard. I was fairly young and I was dismal and I was getting frustrated with myself. Embarrassed, I collected several of the missed balls that were scattered by my feet and tossed them back to him so we could try again. A few rolled behind him and into the bushes forcing him to crawl in to retrieve them. My frustration grew; I couldn't even toss a ball right. I was determined to hit the next pitch with all my might.
He brushed himself off, paused for a moment, asked if I was ready and then hurled the brightly colored ball at me. I concentrated and hit it perfectly on the fat part of the bat with an exploding crack. Literally, the 'ball' exploded into hundreds of little pieces! At first I was scared, what had I done now? Then I was bewildered as my grandfather began laughing heartily, like Santa Claus, but much more mischievous. As we walked toward each other he held out his hand and revealed three large unripe crabapples, the same coloring as the balls he had been pitching me. He had switched them when he was in the bushes. He was equal parts thoroughly amused with himself and proud of me for finally getting a hit squarely and forcefully, with a smaller object to boot. My expression seared itself on his memory. From that point on he would periodically begin laughing spontaneously during our visits and retell the story for the next twenty or so years.
I loved when he told stories. They could be from his childhood or from a recent visit to the doctor, he always had an anecdote. During our visits he would hold court from his leather chair in the corner of the living room, or in the dining room sitting in the only armed chair. In the den he would faithfully watch the Red Sox or Patriots during the time when they were contenders but not yet regular champions.
One of the saddest days of my life was helping him into the car at the funeral of my aunt, his youngest daughter. His sudden sobs were unexpected, heartbreaking and profound. In time, the stories, riddles and jokes returned even as his health began to decline. We were fortunate to have him grace this earth for nearly a century. Although he has been gone for several years now, whenever I hear a story or riddle well told or witness a prank well played, I think of him and smile. Lately, I find myself remembering him and wishing more people could have met him and benefitted from his humor and class.
Who do you know that you wish more people could meet? How many people are being introduced to you? Share your gifts freely and with great authenticity, because the world will be better for it.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Never be Frozen by Fear
I had a nightmare recently, the kind that makes you wake up in a cold sweat. This is rare for me as I have what I consider to be a gift, in that I found I have the ability to control my dreams. It started in early childhood when I was terrorized by Snuffalufagus and The Count from Sesame Street. They used to routinely and terrifyingly chase me around a neighborhood grocery store. I eventually trained myself to make them stop. I take this as a point of pride and it has often spared me uncomfortable dreams. If I didn’t like the direction one was going, my mind would call for a rewrite and I reprogrammed the plot. Not so the other night. I was completely frozen and could not control the outcome.
Who knows how the crazy world of dreams puts you in one predicament or another. In this one, I was frightfully clinging to a cliff. The sun was setting over the ocean, casting a deceptively peaceful golden light while the winds were growing stronger.
Perhaps because of my training in television and film I have found I am frequently able to control the angles or the “shots” of the movie in my mind. Like a director in the control room, I’ve been conscious of my ability to zoom in and out and to pan or dolly to get a better or more cinematic view of my surroundings. This nightmare was no exception, but doing so made my peril more visible. As I zoomed out it became clear that I was not clinging to a cliff, but a large rock formation beyond a cliff. Perhaps, I remember thinking, if I were able to scale it I would be able to safely leap back to land. Unfortunately, as often happens in dreams, there were unexpected obstacles. The texture of this weathered rock was smooth with very few crevices to grasp. It also appeared that this rock disguised a marine geyser similar to La Buffadora in Mexico. It acted as a volcano and the top of it threatened to explode huge violent streams of water at any moment.
In my twenties, I participated in a ROPES program with a group of at-risk-kids. The day was filled with trust walks and physical and mental obstacle courses. One of the last challenges was to don a harness and scale a telephone pole, stand on top of it and leap toward a flag that was suspended slightly above it. The belayer controlling the rope from the ground mitigated the fall. By that time in the day, I was physically exhausted and my legs had turned to jelly. I scaled the pole just fine, but could not unlock my legs enough to stand. Ultimately, I decided to push myself off and flailed toward the hanging flag, missing it but remaining safely cradled in the harness as I was unceremoniously lowered to the ground.
While stuck on this rock that memory engulfed me. Unfortunately, this was four times higher and there was no harness and nothing but waves and rocks below. I couldn’t judge if I would be able to dive past the rocks into the ocean. The strengthening wind made me doubt it. I was paralyzed and felt a complete loss of control. Standing there, clinging to a rock, the wind battering me, with the threat of the unknown above me and uncertainty below me.
Much of my nightmare was just the prolonged anguish of witnessing myself in that pose. It was a horrific feeling and I could no longer stand it. I continued to look upward and downward in utter indecisiveness. It was then I woke in that cold sweat. As I lay awake and breathless, I began to replay the scenario in my head. Why was this a nightmare?
The thought occurred to me; how many times do we have to face difficult choices armed with limited knowledge? The choice to move in one direction has uncertainty. A misstep or a random disruptive influence from the outside world could be catastrophic. The choice to move in the other direction may have a more definitive outcome, but it too is a lousy option.
In my dream, if I was able to climb up, I might have been visible to a rescue helicopter. Or, I might have been blown off the side. If I leapt off into the ocean below, it is likely I could have perished from the fall, if not the waves crashing against the rocks. Maybe I could have stayed and waited it out. Perhaps the tide would rise above the rocks. But then it would be night and I was already exhausted clinging for life. How much more could I endure?
That is what made it a nightmare. To have absolutely no control over the situation and to be paralyzed by fear and inaction. I morbidly began to think on where I would have most liked to have had my body found. Clinging to a rock in fear, or somewhere else that showed I at least tried.
It may seem, at certain times in your life that you have no control over the situation you are in. This may be true, but you are always able to control how you respond to these situations. Huddle down, assess your options, and then take action. Sometimes, though rarely, waiting can be an appropriate action – if you’ve assessed your options and made that a conscious decision rather than a fall back to inaction.
Never be frozen by fear. You can never know the result of your decision ahead of time. It may be good or it may be bad, but you will certainly get immediate feedback once you’ve made it. Then, you will need to make another decision based on what you’ve learned. And then another and another. Make them. Make decisions and accept the consequences of them. Choose decisively and keep moving forward.
Who knows how the crazy world of dreams puts you in one predicament or another. In this one, I was frightfully clinging to a cliff. The sun was setting over the ocean, casting a deceptively peaceful golden light while the winds were growing stronger.
Perhaps because of my training in television and film I have found I am frequently able to control the angles or the “shots” of the movie in my mind. Like a director in the control room, I’ve been conscious of my ability to zoom in and out and to pan or dolly to get a better or more cinematic view of my surroundings. This nightmare was no exception, but doing so made my peril more visible. As I zoomed out it became clear that I was not clinging to a cliff, but a large rock formation beyond a cliff. Perhaps, I remember thinking, if I were able to scale it I would be able to safely leap back to land. Unfortunately, as often happens in dreams, there were unexpected obstacles. The texture of this weathered rock was smooth with very few crevices to grasp. It also appeared that this rock disguised a marine geyser similar to La Buffadora in Mexico. It acted as a volcano and the top of it threatened to explode huge violent streams of water at any moment.
In my twenties, I participated in a ROPES program with a group of at-risk-kids. The day was filled with trust walks and physical and mental obstacle courses. One of the last challenges was to don a harness and scale a telephone pole, stand on top of it and leap toward a flag that was suspended slightly above it. The belayer controlling the rope from the ground mitigated the fall. By that time in the day, I was physically exhausted and my legs had turned to jelly. I scaled the pole just fine, but could not unlock my legs enough to stand. Ultimately, I decided to push myself off and flailed toward the hanging flag, missing it but remaining safely cradled in the harness as I was unceremoniously lowered to the ground.
While stuck on this rock that memory engulfed me. Unfortunately, this was four times higher and there was no harness and nothing but waves and rocks below. I couldn’t judge if I would be able to dive past the rocks into the ocean. The strengthening wind made me doubt it. I was paralyzed and felt a complete loss of control. Standing there, clinging to a rock, the wind battering me, with the threat of the unknown above me and uncertainty below me.
Much of my nightmare was just the prolonged anguish of witnessing myself in that pose. It was a horrific feeling and I could no longer stand it. I continued to look upward and downward in utter indecisiveness. It was then I woke in that cold sweat. As I lay awake and breathless, I began to replay the scenario in my head. Why was this a nightmare?
The thought occurred to me; how many times do we have to face difficult choices armed with limited knowledge? The choice to move in one direction has uncertainty. A misstep or a random disruptive influence from the outside world could be catastrophic. The choice to move in the other direction may have a more definitive outcome, but it too is a lousy option.
In my dream, if I was able to climb up, I might have been visible to a rescue helicopter. Or, I might have been blown off the side. If I leapt off into the ocean below, it is likely I could have perished from the fall, if not the waves crashing against the rocks. Maybe I could have stayed and waited it out. Perhaps the tide would rise above the rocks. But then it would be night and I was already exhausted clinging for life. How much more could I endure?
That is what made it a nightmare. To have absolutely no control over the situation and to be paralyzed by fear and inaction. I morbidly began to think on where I would have most liked to have had my body found. Clinging to a rock in fear, or somewhere else that showed I at least tried.
It may seem, at certain times in your life that you have no control over the situation you are in. This may be true, but you are always able to control how you respond to these situations. Huddle down, assess your options, and then take action. Sometimes, though rarely, waiting can be an appropriate action – if you’ve assessed your options and made that a conscious decision rather than a fall back to inaction.
Never be frozen by fear. You can never know the result of your decision ahead of time. It may be good or it may be bad, but you will certainly get immediate feedback once you’ve made it. Then, you will need to make another decision based on what you’ve learned. And then another and another. Make them. Make decisions and accept the consequences of them. Choose decisively and keep moving forward.
Never be Frozen by Fear
I had a nightmare recently, the kind that makes you wake up in a cold sweat. This is rare for me as I have what I consider to be a gift, in that I found I have the ability to control my dreams. It started in early childhood when I was terrorized by Snuffalufagus and The Count from Sesame Street. They used to routinely and terrifyingly chase me around a neighborhood grocery store. I eventually trained myself to make them stop. I take this as a point of pride and it has often spared me uncomfortable dreams. If I didn’t like the direction one was going, my mind would call for a rewrite and I reprogrammed the plot. Not so the other night. I was completely frozen and could not control the outcome.
Who knows how the crazy world of dreams puts you in one predicament or another. In this one, I was frightfully clinging to a cliff. The sun was setting over the ocean, casting a deceptively peaceful golden light while the winds were growing stronger.
Perhaps because of my training in television and film I have found I am frequently able to control the angles or the “shots” of the movie in my mind. Like a director in the control room, I’ve been conscious of my ability to zoom in and out and to pan or dolly to get a better or more cinematic view of my surroundings. This nightmare was no exception, but doing so made my peril more visible. As I zoomed out it became clear that I was not clinging to a cliff, but a large rock formation beyond a cliff. Perhaps, I remember thinking, if I were able to scale it I would be able to safely leap back to land. Unfortunately, as often happens in dreams, there were unexpected obstacles. The texture of this weathered rock was smooth with very few crevices to grasp. It also appeared that this rock disguised a marine geyser similar to La Buffadora in Mexico. It acted as a volcano and the top of it threatened to explode huge violent streams of water at any moment.
In my twenties, I participated in a ROPES program with a group of at-risk-kids. The day was filled with trust walks and physical and mental obstacle courses. One of the last challenges was to don a harness and scale a telephone pole, stand on top of it and leap toward a flag that was suspended slightly above it. The belayer controlling the rope from the ground mitigated the fall. By that time in the day, I was physically exhausted and my legs had turned to jelly. I scaled the pole just fine, but could not unlock my legs enough to stand. Ultimately, I decided to push myself off and flailed toward the hanging flag, missing it but remaining safely cradled in the harness as I was unceremoniously lowered to the ground.
While stuck on this rock that memory engulfed me. Unfortunately, this was four times higher and there was no harness and nothing but waves and rocks below. I couldn’t judge if I would be able to dive past the rocks into the ocean. The strengthening wind made me doubt it. I was paralyzed and felt a complete loss of control. Standing there, clinging to a rock, the wind battering me, with the threat of the unknown above me and uncertainty below me.
Much of my nightmare was just the prolonged anguish of witnessing myself in that pose. It was a horrific feeling and I could no longer stand it. I continued to look upward and downward in utter indecisiveness. It was then I woke in that cold sweat. As I lay awake and breathless, I began to replay the scenario in my head. Why was this a nightmare?
The thought occurred to me; how many times do we have to face difficult choices armed with limited knowledge? The choice to move in one direction has uncertainty. A misstep or a random disruptive influence from the outside world could be catastrophic. The choice to move in the other direction may have a more definitive outcome, but it too is a lousy option.
In my dream, if I was able to climb up, I might have been visible to a rescue helicopter. Or, I might have been blown off the side. If I leapt off into the ocean below, it is likely I could have perished from the fall, if not the waves crashing against the rocks. Maybe I could have stayed and waited it out. Perhaps the tide would rise above the rocks. But then it would be night and I was already exhausted clinging for life. How much more could I endure?
That is what made it a nightmare. To have absolutely no control over the situation and to be paralyzed by fear and inaction. I morbidly began to think on where I would have most liked to have had my body found. Clinging to a rock in fear, or somewhere else that showed I at least tried.
It may seem, at certain times in your life that you have no control over the situation you are in. This may be true, but you are always able to control how you respond to these situations. Huddle down, assess your options, and then take action. Sometimes, though rarely, waiting can be an appropriate action – if you’ve assessed your options and made that a conscious decision rather than a fall back to inaction.
Never be frozen by fear. You can never know the result of your decision ahead of time. It may be good or it may be bad, but you will certainly get immediate feedback once you’ve made it. Then, you will need to make another decision based on what you’ve learned. And then another and another. Make them. Make decisions and accept the consequences of them. Choose decisively and keep moving forward.
Who knows how the crazy world of dreams puts you in one predicament or another. In this one, I was frightfully clinging to a cliff. The sun was setting over the ocean, casting a deceptively peaceful golden light while the winds were growing stronger.
Perhaps because of my training in television and film I have found I am frequently able to control the angles or the “shots” of the movie in my mind. Like a director in the control room, I’ve been conscious of my ability to zoom in and out and to pan or dolly to get a better or more cinematic view of my surroundings. This nightmare was no exception, but doing so made my peril more visible. As I zoomed out it became clear that I was not clinging to a cliff, but a large rock formation beyond a cliff. Perhaps, I remember thinking, if I were able to scale it I would be able to safely leap back to land. Unfortunately, as often happens in dreams, there were unexpected obstacles. The texture of this weathered rock was smooth with very few crevices to grasp. It also appeared that this rock disguised a marine geyser similar to La Buffadora in Mexico. It acted as a volcano and the top of it threatened to explode huge violent streams of water at any moment.
In my twenties, I participated in a ROPES program with a group of at-risk-kids. The day was filled with trust walks and physical and mental obstacle courses. One of the last challenges was to don a harness and scale a telephone pole, stand on top of it and leap toward a flag that was suspended slightly above it. The belayer controlling the rope from the ground mitigated the fall. By that time in the day, I was physically exhausted and my legs had turned to jelly. I scaled the pole just fine, but could not unlock my legs enough to stand. Ultimately, I decided to push myself off and flailed toward the hanging flag, missing it but remaining safely cradled in the harness as I was unceremoniously lowered to the ground.
While stuck on this rock that memory engulfed me. Unfortunately, this was four times higher and there was no harness and nothing but waves and rocks below. I couldn’t judge if I would be able to dive past the rocks into the ocean. The strengthening wind made me doubt it. I was paralyzed and felt a complete loss of control. Standing there, clinging to a rock, the wind battering me, with the threat of the unknown above me and uncertainty below me.
Much of my nightmare was just the prolonged anguish of witnessing myself in that pose. It was a horrific feeling and I could no longer stand it. I continued to look upward and downward in utter indecisiveness. It was then I woke in that cold sweat. As I lay awake and breathless, I began to replay the scenario in my head. Why was this a nightmare?
The thought occurred to me; how many times do we have to face difficult choices armed with limited knowledge? The choice to move in one direction has uncertainty. A misstep or a random disruptive influence from the outside world could be catastrophic. The choice to move in the other direction may have a more definitive outcome, but it too is a lousy option.
In my dream, if I was able to climb up, I might have been visible to a rescue helicopter. Or, I might have been blown off the side. If I leapt off into the ocean below, it is likely I could have perished from the fall, if not the waves crashing against the rocks. Maybe I could have stayed and waited it out. Perhaps the tide would rise above the rocks. But then it would be night and I was already exhausted clinging for life. How much more could I endure?
That is what made it a nightmare. To have absolutely no control over the situation and to be paralyzed by fear and inaction. I morbidly began to think on where I would have most liked to have had my body found. Clinging to a rock in fear, or somewhere else that showed I at least tried.
It may seem, at certain times in your life that you have no control over the situation you are in. This may be true, but you are always able to control how you respond to these situations. Huddle down, assess your options, and then take action. Sometimes, though rarely, waiting can be an appropriate action – if you’ve assessed your options and made that a conscious decision rather than a fall back to inaction.
Never be frozen by fear. You can never know the result of your decision ahead of time. It may be good or it may be bad, but you will certainly get immediate feedback once you’ve made it. Then, you will need to make another decision based on what you’ve learned. And then another and another. Make them. Make decisions and accept the consequences of them. Choose decisively and keep moving forward.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
You can tell a lot...
I’ve been thinking lately about the clues that are often right in front of us. Maybe it’s because I’ve been watching “Lie to me*” on Fox, not to be confused with FoxNews, which…well never mind.
There are a few “You can tell a lot's” that I’ve learned over the years:
You can tell a lot about an organization, by what they hang on the wall.
You can tell a lot about a nation, by how they treat women.
You can tell a lot about a parent, by listening to how their children speak.
You can tell a lot about a person, by the books on their nightstand.
You can tell a lot about a politician, by who endorses them.
You can tell a lot about a town, by its library hours.
These clues give insight. And with insight, you can begin to diagnose and if necessary, prescribe a new course of action. Please add to this list. What are some “You can tell a lot’s” that have meaning for you?
There are a few “You can tell a lot's” that I’ve learned over the years:
You can tell a lot about an organization, by what they hang on the wall.
You can tell a lot about a nation, by how they treat women.
You can tell a lot about a parent, by listening to how their children speak.
You can tell a lot about a person, by the books on their nightstand.
You can tell a lot about a politician, by who endorses them.
You can tell a lot about a town, by its library hours.
These clues give insight. And with insight, you can begin to diagnose and if necessary, prescribe a new course of action. Please add to this list. What are some “You can tell a lot’s” that have meaning for you?
You can tell a lot...
I’ve been thinking lately about the clues that are often right in front of us. Maybe it’s because I’ve been watching “Lie to me*” on Fox, not to be confused with FoxNews, which…well never mind.
There are a few “You can tell a lot's” that I’ve learned over the years:
You can tell a lot about an organization, by what they hang on the wall.
You can tell a lot about a nation, by how they treat women.
You can tell a lot about a parent, by listening to how their children speak.
You can tell a lot about a person, by the books on their nightstand.
You can tell a lot about a politician, by who endorses them.
You can tell a lot about a town, by its library hours.
These clues give insight. And with insight, you can begin to diagnose and if necessary, prescribe a new course of action. Please add to this list. What are some “You can tell a lot’s” that have meaning for you?
There are a few “You can tell a lot's” that I’ve learned over the years:
You can tell a lot about an organization, by what they hang on the wall.
You can tell a lot about a nation, by how they treat women.
You can tell a lot about a parent, by listening to how their children speak.
You can tell a lot about a person, by the books on their nightstand.
You can tell a lot about a politician, by who endorses them.
You can tell a lot about a town, by its library hours.
These clues give insight. And with insight, you can begin to diagnose and if necessary, prescribe a new course of action. Please add to this list. What are some “You can tell a lot’s” that have meaning for you?
I want my money back, money back
Remember the Chili's commercial for Baby back ribs?
Here's a taste if you forgot: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6es-zygyWw (sorry to get it back in your head)
All the failing banks and mismanaged firms who begged for government bailout money and are still failing but handing out bonuses are beginning to tick me off. There should be peaceful protests in front of their offices serenaded with a new but mind penetrating anthem:
“I want my money back, money back, money back, I want my money back, money back, money back... Bailout Money baaack please.”
Okay creative activists, run with it and post your results.
Here's a taste if you forgot: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6es-zygyWw (sorry to get it back in your head)
All the failing banks and mismanaged firms who begged for government bailout money and are still failing but handing out bonuses are beginning to tick me off. There should be peaceful protests in front of their offices serenaded with a new but mind penetrating anthem:
“I want my money back, money back, money back, I want my money back, money back, money back... Bailout Money baaack please.”
Okay creative activists, run with it and post your results.
I want my money back, money back
Remember the Chili's commercial for Baby back ribs?
Here's a taste if you forgot: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6es-zygyWw (sorry to get it back in your head)
All the failing banks and mismanaged firms who begged for government bailout money and are still failing but handing out bonuses are beginning to tick me off. There should be peaceful protests in front of their offices serenaded with a new but mind penetrating anthem:
“I want my money back, money back, money back, I want my money back, money back, money back... Bailout Money baaack please.”
Okay creative activists, run with it and post your results.
Here's a taste if you forgot: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6es-zygyWw (sorry to get it back in your head)
All the failing banks and mismanaged firms who begged for government bailout money and are still failing but handing out bonuses are beginning to tick me off. There should be peaceful protests in front of their offices serenaded with a new but mind penetrating anthem:
“I want my money back, money back, money back, I want my money back, money back, money back... Bailout Money baaack please.”
Okay creative activists, run with it and post your results.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Who is Sponsoring Your Day?
During a recent weekend getaway with my family, I learned something new from a kid's show. Early one predawn morning my son figured out the hotel's television remote control and stealthily tuned into "Sesame Street", which I was able to spy from the comfort of my bed and through one bleary eye.
For those who have no idea, (and shame on you if you don't) Sesame Street is the famous educational children's television series on PBS. Most everyone from Generation X and younger grew up with it and have a favorite character from Kermit the Frog, to Grover, Big Bird, and Oscar the Grouch, to Elmo. Although the characters and storylines have changed over time, at least one thing has remained constant for the 39 years that it's been on the air; a letter and a number sponsor each show. The selected letter and number are integrated throughout the episode, just like product placement ads on "American Idol". Although different, both serve the same purpose, to reinforce a message.
It got me thinking. Who is sponsoring your day? What two or three thoughts, objectives, or ideals are you flashing on and reminding yourself about multiple times during your day? What would you like to reinforce that will help keep you on track toward your goal? Is it joy and humor or hate and discontent? Do you plan on living a day filled with generosity and understanding or will you just go with the flow, rudderless and subject to the winds and tides or someone else's whim?
Start to consider having your days brought to you by sponsors that move you closer to your goals by living your values. Do you know your values? I've posted 425 words for you to browse at karlbimshas.com Each one of them represents a value. Some of the words will be more meaningful for you than others. Checkmark the ones that solicit a response from you. They are clues to your personal values. Each day, pick a couple of the words you checked, and commit to living the idea it represents. When days are tough, make the effort to search for it in all you do. Show it to others. Have those words sponsor your day and soon you will be racing toward your goals faster than you had imagined.
For those who have no idea, (and shame on you if you don't) Sesame Street is the famous educational children's television series on PBS. Most everyone from Generation X and younger grew up with it and have a favorite character from Kermit the Frog, to Grover, Big Bird, and Oscar the Grouch, to Elmo. Although the characters and storylines have changed over time, at least one thing has remained constant for the 39 years that it's been on the air; a letter and a number sponsor each show. The selected letter and number are integrated throughout the episode, just like product placement ads on "American Idol". Although different, both serve the same purpose, to reinforce a message.
It got me thinking. Who is sponsoring your day? What two or three thoughts, objectives, or ideals are you flashing on and reminding yourself about multiple times during your day? What would you like to reinforce that will help keep you on track toward your goal? Is it joy and humor or hate and discontent? Do you plan on living a day filled with generosity and understanding or will you just go with the flow, rudderless and subject to the winds and tides or someone else's whim?
Start to consider having your days brought to you by sponsors that move you closer to your goals by living your values. Do you know your values? I've posted 425 words for you to browse at karlbimshas.com Each one of them represents a value. Some of the words will be more meaningful for you than others. Checkmark the ones that solicit a response from you. They are clues to your personal values. Each day, pick a couple of the words you checked, and commit to living the idea it represents. When days are tough, make the effort to search for it in all you do. Show it to others. Have those words sponsor your day and soon you will be racing toward your goals faster than you had imagined.
Who is Sponsoring Your Day?
During a recent weekend getaway with my family, I learned something new from a kid's show. Early one predawn morning my son figured out the hotel's television remote control and stealthily tuned into "Sesame Street", which I was able to spy from the comfort of my bed and through one bleary eye.
For those who have no idea, (and shame on you if you don't) Sesame Street is the famous educational children's television series on PBS. Most everyone from Generation X and younger grew up with it and have a favorite character from Kermit the Frog, to Grover, Big Bird, and Oscar the Grouch, to Elmo. Although the characters and storylines have changed over time, at least one thing has remained constant for the 39 years that it's been on the air; a letter and a number sponsor each show. The selected letter and number are integrated throughout the episode, just like product placement ads on "American Idol". Although different, both serve the same purpose, to reinforce a message.
It got me thinking. Who is sponsoring your day? What two or three thoughts, objectives, or ideals are you flashing on and reminding yourself about multiple times during your day? What would you like to reinforce that will help keep you on track toward your goal? Is it joy and humor or hate and discontent? Do you plan on living a day filled with generosity and understanding or will you just go with the flow, rudderless and subject to the winds and tides or someone else's whim?
Start to consider having your days brought to you by sponsors that move you closer to your goals by living your values. Do you know your values? I've posted 425 words for you to browse at karlbimshas.com Each one of them represents a value. Some of the words will be more meaningful for you than others. Checkmark the ones that solicit a response from you. They are clues to your personal values. Each day, pick a couple of the words you checked, and commit to living the idea it represents. When days are tough, make the effort to search for it in all you do. Show it to others. Have those words sponsor your day and soon you will be racing toward your goals faster than you had imagined.
For those who have no idea, (and shame on you if you don't) Sesame Street is the famous educational children's television series on PBS. Most everyone from Generation X and younger grew up with it and have a favorite character from Kermit the Frog, to Grover, Big Bird, and Oscar the Grouch, to Elmo. Although the characters and storylines have changed over time, at least one thing has remained constant for the 39 years that it's been on the air; a letter and a number sponsor each show. The selected letter and number are integrated throughout the episode, just like product placement ads on "American Idol". Although different, both serve the same purpose, to reinforce a message.
It got me thinking. Who is sponsoring your day? What two or three thoughts, objectives, or ideals are you flashing on and reminding yourself about multiple times during your day? What would you like to reinforce that will help keep you on track toward your goal? Is it joy and humor or hate and discontent? Do you plan on living a day filled with generosity and understanding or will you just go with the flow, rudderless and subject to the winds and tides or someone else's whim?
Start to consider having your days brought to you by sponsors that move you closer to your goals by living your values. Do you know your values? I've posted 425 words for you to browse at karlbimshas.com Each one of them represents a value. Some of the words will be more meaningful for you than others. Checkmark the ones that solicit a response from you. They are clues to your personal values. Each day, pick a couple of the words you checked, and commit to living the idea it represents. When days are tough, make the effort to search for it in all you do. Show it to others. Have those words sponsor your day and soon you will be racing toward your goals faster than you had imagined.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Chapter One - Free
Happy Saturday. Today I’ve decided to give away the first chapter of my latest book, “How to Stay When You Want to Quit; Re-scripting your life from whiner to winner”.
I’m doing so because, in the first few weeks of the year, I’ve spoken with many ordinarily happy people who are currently feeling cynical, stumped or scared. Change and uncertainty has a way of making us feel that way. Interestingly, so can the lack of change. If the status quo is no good, you can easily get in an r.u.t. (regularly uninspired and tired). Either way, this may help.
Begin reading the familiar story of Max and Madeline and learn how she helps Max turn his attitude and life around. Feel free to forward this chapter to someone you think could use it.
The link below takes you to a page where you can download the first chapter.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAPTER ONE
If you like what you’ve read, write a review on Amazon.
If you liked the writing and you’re on LinkedIn, write a recommendation.
Tell your friends and colleagues on Twitter, Facebook, Stumbleupon or My Space.
I’m doing so because, in the first few weeks of the year, I’ve spoken with many ordinarily happy people who are currently feeling cynical, stumped or scared. Change and uncertainty has a way of making us feel that way. Interestingly, so can the lack of change. If the status quo is no good, you can easily get in an r.u.t. (regularly uninspired and tired). Either way, this may help.
Begin reading the familiar story of Max and Madeline and learn how she helps Max turn his attitude and life around. Feel free to forward this chapter to someone you think could use it.
The link below takes you to a page where you can download the first chapter.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAPTER ONE
If you like what you’ve read, write a review on Amazon.
If you liked the writing and you’re on LinkedIn, write a recommendation.
Tell your friends and colleagues on Twitter, Facebook, Stumbleupon or My Space.
Chapter One - Free
Happy Saturday. Today I’ve decided to give away the first chapter of my latest book, “How to Stay When You Want to Quit; Re-scripting your life from whiner to winner”.
I’m doing so because, in the first few weeks of the year, I’ve spoken with many ordinarily happy people who are currently feeling cynical, stumped or scared. Change and uncertainty has a way of making us feel that way. Interestingly, so can the lack of change. If the status quo is no good, you can easily get in an r.u.t. (regularly uninspired and tired). Either way, this may help.
Begin reading the familiar story of Max and Madeline and learn how she helps Max turn his attitude and life around. Feel free to forward this chapter to someone you think could use it.
The link below takes you to a page where you can download the first chapter.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAPTER ONE
If you like what you’ve read, write a review on Amazon.
If you liked the writing and you’re on LinkedIn, write a recommendation.
Tell your friends and colleagues on Twitter, Facebook, Stumbleupon or My Space.
I’m doing so because, in the first few weeks of the year, I’ve spoken with many ordinarily happy people who are currently feeling cynical, stumped or scared. Change and uncertainty has a way of making us feel that way. Interestingly, so can the lack of change. If the status quo is no good, you can easily get in an r.u.t. (regularly uninspired and tired). Either way, this may help.
Begin reading the familiar story of Max and Madeline and learn how she helps Max turn his attitude and life around. Feel free to forward this chapter to someone you think could use it.
The link below takes you to a page where you can download the first chapter.
CLICK HERE FOR CHAPTER ONE
If you like what you’ve read, write a review on Amazon.
If you liked the writing and you’re on LinkedIn, write a recommendation.
Tell your friends and colleagues on Twitter, Facebook, Stumbleupon or My Space.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Set Your Vision into Motion Too
On January 20th the United States will again demonstrate its talent for peaceful transitions as the stewardship of presidential power is passed literally and figuratively. This year of course is unprecedented, thankfully so.
Every four or eight years the world is treated to the reminder that change is inevitable and can be embraced with dignity, respect and celebration. This year's inaugural address from Barack Obama is likely to provide lofty language of hope, openness to new ideas and an urging to view a landscape full of possibilities. There will be calls for sacrifice and the somber reality that tough decisions between terrible options will be made. The spirit of America will be renewed and echoed across the Washington Mall and into the classrooms and offices, churches, synagogues and mosques across the land as unity seeks to replace past divisiveness. People of every spot and stripe will be called upon to act and to lead.
I have long believed that everyone has the capacity to be a leader. A leader is a person who knows their strengths and maximizes them while making their weaknesses irrelevant. They do the same for their followers, be they citizens of the world or members of a little league team. A leader shares their vision, passion, and action. To move an organization, family, or nation forward, they create an environment where what I call "The Four Musts" can thrive.
• A strong leader and strong, pervasive leadership
• A repeatable compelling vision and sense of purpose
• A sense of overwhelming optimism
• A regular diet of meaningful recognition
A leader also understands the value of teamwork and freely acknowledges that wherever they hope to go, they cannot get their alone. They prioritize actions by asking their followers what I call "The Power Question". "What one thing can I do for you that will most help you make a positive difference?"
On Tuesday, anyone who is listening will know the transformative vision of this nation. Some may not like or accept it. That's okay. Conscientious objections are useful because listening to those who oppose you is a great way to learn, improve and unite.
An inaugural address is like a manifesto, a way of sharing your intentions and initiatives and where you're headed. What about you? How do you emerge from your periods of darkness? What is your vision? Where is your passion? What have you put into action? Find a way of communicating it to the people who are important to you. You may be surprised at how much sooner you'll arrive.
Every four or eight years the world is treated to the reminder that change is inevitable and can be embraced with dignity, respect and celebration. This year's inaugural address from Barack Obama is likely to provide lofty language of hope, openness to new ideas and an urging to view a landscape full of possibilities. There will be calls for sacrifice and the somber reality that tough decisions between terrible options will be made. The spirit of America will be renewed and echoed across the Washington Mall and into the classrooms and offices, churches, synagogues and mosques across the land as unity seeks to replace past divisiveness. People of every spot and stripe will be called upon to act and to lead.
I have long believed that everyone has the capacity to be a leader. A leader is a person who knows their strengths and maximizes them while making their weaknesses irrelevant. They do the same for their followers, be they citizens of the world or members of a little league team. A leader shares their vision, passion, and action. To move an organization, family, or nation forward, they create an environment where what I call "The Four Musts" can thrive.
• A strong leader and strong, pervasive leadership
• A repeatable compelling vision and sense of purpose
• A sense of overwhelming optimism
• A regular diet of meaningful recognition
A leader also understands the value of teamwork and freely acknowledges that wherever they hope to go, they cannot get their alone. They prioritize actions by asking their followers what I call "The Power Question". "What one thing can I do for you that will most help you make a positive difference?"
On Tuesday, anyone who is listening will know the transformative vision of this nation. Some may not like or accept it. That's okay. Conscientious objections are useful because listening to those who oppose you is a great way to learn, improve and unite.
An inaugural address is like a manifesto, a way of sharing your intentions and initiatives and where you're headed. What about you? How do you emerge from your periods of darkness? What is your vision? Where is your passion? What have you put into action? Find a way of communicating it to the people who are important to you. You may be surprised at how much sooner you'll arrive.
Set Your Vision into Motion Too
On January 20th the United States will again demonstrate its talent for peaceful transitions as the stewardship of presidential power is passed literally and figuratively. This year of course is unprecedented, thankfully so.
Every four or eight years the world is treated to the reminder that change is inevitable and can be embraced with dignity, respect and celebration. This year's inaugural address from Barack Obama is likely to provide lofty language of hope, openness to new ideas and an urging to view a landscape full of possibilities. There will be calls for sacrifice and the somber reality that tough decisions between terrible options will be made. The spirit of America will be renewed and echoed across the Washington Mall and into the classrooms and offices, churches, synagogues and mosques across the land as unity seeks to replace past divisiveness. People of every spot and stripe will be called upon to act and to lead.
I have long believed that everyone has the capacity to be a leader. A leader is a person who knows their strengths and maximizes them while making their weaknesses irrelevant. They do the same for their followers, be they citizens of the world or members of a little league team. A leader shares their vision, passion, and action. To move an organization, family, or nation forward, they create an environment where what I call "The Four Musts" can thrive.
• A strong leader and strong, pervasive leadership
• A repeatable compelling vision and sense of purpose
• A sense of overwhelming optimism
• A regular diet of meaningful recognition
A leader also understands the value of teamwork and freely acknowledges that wherever they hope to go, they cannot get their alone. They prioritize actions by asking their followers what I call "The Power Question". "What one thing can I do for you that will most help you make a positive difference?"
On Tuesday, anyone who is listening will know the transformative vision of this nation. Some may not like or accept it. That's okay. Conscientious objections are useful because listening to those who oppose you is a great way to learn, improve and unite.
An inaugural address is like a manifesto, a way of sharing your intentions and initiatives and where you're headed. What about you? How do you emerge from your periods of darkness? What is your vision? Where is your passion? What have you put into action? Find a way of communicating it to the people who are important to you. You may be surprised at how much sooner you'll arrive.
Every four or eight years the world is treated to the reminder that change is inevitable and can be embraced with dignity, respect and celebration. This year's inaugural address from Barack Obama is likely to provide lofty language of hope, openness to new ideas and an urging to view a landscape full of possibilities. There will be calls for sacrifice and the somber reality that tough decisions between terrible options will be made. The spirit of America will be renewed and echoed across the Washington Mall and into the classrooms and offices, churches, synagogues and mosques across the land as unity seeks to replace past divisiveness. People of every spot and stripe will be called upon to act and to lead.
I have long believed that everyone has the capacity to be a leader. A leader is a person who knows their strengths and maximizes them while making their weaknesses irrelevant. They do the same for their followers, be they citizens of the world or members of a little league team. A leader shares their vision, passion, and action. To move an organization, family, or nation forward, they create an environment where what I call "The Four Musts" can thrive.
• A strong leader and strong, pervasive leadership
• A repeatable compelling vision and sense of purpose
• A sense of overwhelming optimism
• A regular diet of meaningful recognition
A leader also understands the value of teamwork and freely acknowledges that wherever they hope to go, they cannot get their alone. They prioritize actions by asking their followers what I call "The Power Question". "What one thing can I do for you that will most help you make a positive difference?"
On Tuesday, anyone who is listening will know the transformative vision of this nation. Some may not like or accept it. That's okay. Conscientious objections are useful because listening to those who oppose you is a great way to learn, improve and unite.
An inaugural address is like a manifesto, a way of sharing your intentions and initiatives and where you're headed. What about you? How do you emerge from your periods of darkness? What is your vision? Where is your passion? What have you put into action? Find a way of communicating it to the people who are important to you. You may be surprised at how much sooner you'll arrive.
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