Why do some people always seem happy, and others not? Is it really a question of life circumstances? Are they happy because their life is better, they have more luck, and they just don’t have as many worries? Or is it more a question of disposition, their nature, and character? Could it be that … [Read more...] about How to Be Happy: 5 Key Strengths
In Search of the Good Life
There are several roads to becoming happier. You can focus on increasing positive feelings, for example, by engaging in more pleasant activities. You can clear up negative emotions about the past. You can make an effort to develop an optimistic attitude. A simple step such as becoming more … [Read more...] about In Search of the Good Life
Tough Conversations: Talking Over What Really Matters
Some conversations are so difficult that we do anything to avoid them. Then, when things have really built up, we finally have no choice but to confront the issue, and the person. “We need to talk,” usually precedes an argument rather than a conversation. Why are such conversations difficult? … [Read more...] about Tough Conversations: Talking Over What Really Matters
Bargaining to Win
Without signing up for the Harvard Negotiating Project, how can you effectively bargain to get what you want? Let’s face it: Each of us negotiates every day. At work, we discuss additional compensation when we’re promoted to a new position. We plan a vacation or a move. We negotiate with our … [Read more...] about Bargaining to Win
Two Ears and Only One Mouth: How Well Do You Listen?
It has been said that there is a reason that God gave us two ears and only one mouth. Listening is such a crucial activity yet we devote so little effort to doing it well. It is essential for building healthy relationships and successful partnerships. Here are some important facts and techniques … [Read more...] about Two Ears and Only One Mouth: How Well Do You Listen?
The Art of Asking the Right Questions
Fifty percent of good communications is good listening. Asking the right questions must precede good listening. Good questions pave the way for good communications. But what makes for good questions? Is it really that hard to ask a question that will open up discussions, create learning and … [Read more...] about The Art of Asking the Right Questions
Discover Your Strengths: The Road to Self-improvement
"Most Americans do not know what their strengths are. When you ask them, they look at you with a blank stare, or they respond in terms of subject knowledge, which is the wrong answer." —Peter Drucker "To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life." … [Read more...] about Discover Your Strengths: The Road to Self-improvement
What Drives You? Understanding Our Motivations
Do you really understand what motivates you? Everyone knows how important it is to “know yourself,” yet few people do. Really understanding your motivations is a life-long challenge. Part of the problem lies in the fact that motivations are subconscious, so deeply embedded that we don’t get a … [Read more...] about What Drives You? Understanding Our Motivations
The Art of the Goal (Part 3): What’s so SMART about Goals?
Goals are exciting and energizing. They drive us to achieve beyond our expectations. They make it easier for us to focus and concentrate, and give us permission to say “no” to distractions. Then dreams really do come true. But unless you spend time to explore, plan and prioritize, setting the … [Read more...] about The Art of the Goal (Part 3): What’s so SMART about Goals?
The Art of the Goal: (Part 2) Aligning with Identity and Values
“Begin with the end in mind,” encourages Stephen Covey. Before you can set meaningful goals for yourself, you need to know where you want to go. If you clearly understand where you want to be, you can make sure your actions bring you closer to that place each and every day. Corporations spend … [Read more...] about The Art of the Goal: (Part 2) Aligning with Identity and Values