Life is Out Ahead

August 30th, 2011

As we packed the cars and loaded up most of my son Justin’s personal belongings to head back to college, I reflected on how I really appreciate that there are seasons to life. For Justin and College Life it was about tuition, books, detergent and reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.

It wasn’t quite as sad this time (the second) as it was his first year. But, it was sad in another way. I realized Justin continues to move into adulthood and his own life creation that he will autograph with his unique signature. I wouldn’t have it any other way! We have spent his whole life giving him roots to grow and wings to fly. He has taken flight and is soaring with grace and ease. During this journey, I have loved every pencil, pen, package of notebook paper, and even those expensive Texas instrument ‘things’ I have bought him.

Sadly, there are fewer and fewer times where I will buy him ‘stuff’ for his school year. But with that sadness came a thought Read more »

Communication is Not Connection

August 18th, 2011

Today more than ever, there are numerous ways that we can communicate with one another.  For example, E-mail, Voicemail, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to name just a few. These electronic means of communication are sure to evolve into yet un-thought of methods. But, despite all the ways we have to communicate with one another, we are not feeling very connected to other people or to ourselves. To avoid this problem of communication without connection, we need to look at the ways we are communicating to see if we can find more life-enhancing, enriching, and inspirational ways to relate.

What is the objective of effective communication? Ideally, we would like our communication to lead to mutually satisfying relationships. This requires a give and take from each other. You feel like you are making a difference or connecting, and likewise the person on the other side feels the same way. For there to be true communication and connection it has to be mutual.

The following 4-step process will help you more effectively communicate and truly connect with other people: Read more »

Three Lessons Learned from the Summer Job Search Blues

July 27th, 2011

Our son, Justin, is home for the summer from College. It was a Mom “directive/requirement/command” that he would work this summer and earn his spending money. What a learning experience for all of us!

First, he started looking way too late. We learned he should have started looking for positions in January, not April. Second, the world of on-line application is interesting to say the least. It is easy to get lost in the crowd as you are one of hundreds and sometimes thousands of applicants! Third, many don’t want Summer help…and the list goes on and on.

I found myself learning a lot about the process from observing and helping Justin try to land a job. I am very out of touch with having to find a job myself since I have owned my own business for 10 years. I must find and be hired by my clients – but that is a very different process than being hired by a retail store or company.

Below are some of the insights I have gleaned from helping Justin find a summer job that apply universally: Read more »