It all started at home before it started everywhere, I think. It started to rain and thunder. I hate rain and thunder, so I settled in my spot under the porch to wait it all out. Then there was a big bang. The rain stopped. Then came a smell, then sirens. Between the smell and the sirens, my master came home. He looked concerned as he came through the garage and onto the porch. He didn’t so much as acknowledge me, he just looked up to the sky and then rushed inside. Then the sirens came, and everyone was suddenly
We are experiencing unprecedented times given the ever-evolving issues with COVID-19. It is scary and unnerving for everyone, especially those leading during this time of crisis. I’ve been watching a few leaders in action over these last few days. Their actions have provided some insights into the courage, energy, and attitude that is required to inspire and influence others when things are uncertain, novel, and anxiety-ridden. Here is what I’ve learned leaders need to do during all situations of leadership, but most especially when leading through a crisis: 1. Lead by Example: First, leaders do what they say they will
The Five Love Languages for romantic relationships and parents and children can also be applied at work. Adapted to be the Five Love Languages of Appreciation instead of love in the workplace, the approach is the same. Know what other people need and give them that. Even though the developers of this concept replace “appreciation” for “love” when applied to the workplace, I have no problem with calling it love languages at work. Our workplaces can and are better places when we show love in the right way and context everywhere we go. Including the office. Especially in the office.
Hanging pictures on the wall. Proofing documents. Formatting presentations. Checking to make sure calculations in a spreadsheet is correct. I really dislike doing all of these types of tasks. They all require, quite honestly, a sense of detail and accuracy and, of course, patience that doesn’t come naturally to me. It’s not how I’m wired. My husband, on the other hand, finds satisfaction in hanging pictures on the wall, taking care to make sure they are level and perfectly spaced and aligned. He likes to measure, just like he did with the table. And it makes me happy that he finds
The end of the school year brings final exams, award ceremonies, parties, and best of all, summer. My boys have been counting down the days. And with their countdown comes the usual question I face every year. “What are we doing this summer?” I always try to do fun things with them throughout the summer that they will each enjoy. But with three boys ranging from 9 to 15, that’s not always easy. Their interests don’t always match up. What my nine-year-old finds thrilling, my fifteen-year-old finds more boring than watching paint dry. So this year, I’m putting the decision