As the holiday season rolls around, it often brings a mix of emotions—joy, excitement, and, for many of us, a tinge of sorrow. This year has been challenging for many, me included. Perhaps you've lost someone dear, experienced a significant change, or simply feel the weight of the world’s uncertainties. The holidays, while magical in many ways, can also amplify feelings of loss and longing. Yet, amid the challenges, there is space for healing, hope, and creating a brighter future.

Honoring the Ones We Miss

Grief during the holidays can feel like a heavy blanket, and there are meaningful ways to honor those we miss while still embracing the season’s spirit:

1. Create a Tribute Tradition: Light a candle, hang an ornament, or prepare their favorite dish. These small acts can keep their memory alive in a way that feels warm and comforting.
2. Share Stories: Gather with loved ones to share favorite memories. Laughter and reminiscing can often bring a sense of...

 Every year, Black Friday inspires a frenzy of action. From early morning doorbusters to flash sales that light up the internet, it's a day that fuels excitement, drives purchases, and creates a sense of urgency like no other. But what if you could harness that energy and apply it to your business, personal goals, or team motivation all year long?

The Black Friday mentality isn’t just about discounts; it’s about strategy, anticipation, and action. Here's how to channel that powerful mindset every day:

1. Create a Sense of Urgency

Black Friday thrives on the concept of limited time offers. When people know they only have a short window to act, they’re more likely to move quickly. You can replicate this by setting clear deadlines and emphasizing why acting now matters. 

In your business:

• Use time-bound offers or exclusive opportunities to encourage immediate action.

• Highlight the "why now" factor in communication, showing customers or...

Most of us instinctively avoid friction, steering clear of the discomfort it brings. It’s natural to want smooth, effortless interactions and harmonious relationships. And that is not always possible. What if I told you that friction is actually a gift, a powerful indicator that can reveal crucial insights about ourselves? I love friction, because of what it tells me about my own inner world and what’s important to me not because I relish discomfort (although I’ve been told I am really good at having tough conversations – if you need help with this reach out, I’m always up for a challenge).

Friction as a Signal of Bigger Aspirations

Think back to a recent situation where you felt frustrated—perhaps at work, with a team member, or even in a personal relationship. That discomfort you felt wasn’t random; it was a signal from within. Friction often arises when there’s a gap between our current reality and a deeper,...

I recently had the pleasure of writing an article for Dave Sanderson’s Moments Matter Magazine (Summer Issue 2024). I reflected on one of my past experiences, and it has reinvigorated a passion in me that I’m happy to share with you today. To read the full article, click here!

How Our Past Shapes Our Communication

Our past experiences influence our values, behavior, and ultimately how we communicate with the world. These foundational stories, which I refer to as "central organizing stories," are pivotal events or series of events that create a lasting imprint on our perception of life, dictating how we approach both personal and professional relationships.

An important part of my company’s philosophy is based on our Core Values and “connection,” is at the top of the list (it’s also in the name of my company Connect To The Core). I define our “connection” Core Value as the relentless and conscious practice of seeing things from...

At Connect To The Core, we believe that the most powerful communication starts from within. We’re not simply another communication coaching company—we are on a mission to help individuals and organizations find their authentic voice and connect with others in meaningful ways. Our name, Connect To The Core, reflects our philosophy and approach: connecting deeply to the values, drivers, and essence of who you are will allow you to easily and authentically connect with others.

Why "Connect To The Core"?

The name of our company is more than a label; it’s a guiding principle. To connect effectively with others—whether it’s your team, your target market, or your community—you must first connect with yourself. What are your core values? What drives you? What are the fundamental beliefs that shape your approach to life and work? Understanding these things is not just a individual journey; it’s the foundation of effective communication in your...

September: The Second New Year

When we think of new beginnings, January 1st often comes to mind. But for many, September brings the same sense of fresh starts and renewed energy, thanks to the ingrained rhythm of the school calendar. As summer ends and school begins, there’s a palpable shift in mindset—a feeling of newness and pumpkin spice that can inspire us to set goals, reorganize, and refocus. Whether or not you have children heading back to school, the patterns of life in September often make it feel like a "second new year."

Here are three ways you can take advantage of this momentum:

1. Set Your “Second New Year” Goals

Just like we set resolutions in January, September is a great time to review where you stand with the goals you may have set earlier in the year. Maybe some have fallen by the wayside, or perhaps new priorities have emerged. Take a moment to assess what's working and what’s not. Set fresh, realistic goals for the next few...

Storytelling is an ancient and powerful form of communication, transcending cultures and generations. It is the art of weaving words, visuals, and emotions into a narrative that resonates with audiences, and one of the most spectacular examples of storytelling through artistry can be found in the Olympic Opening Ceremonies. These grand events are not just about marking the beginning of the Games; they are a masterclass in blending art, culture, and storytelling to create unforgettable experiences. Am I suggesting that you need to get thousands of dancers and maybe some animals to tell your story? No, I mean how many people do you know that would have access to that many players, not to mention the animals? There are some lessons that we can take away from the pomp and circumstance though, especially when it comes to our communication.

The Olympic Opening Ceremonies: A Canvas of Cultures

The Olympic Opening Ceremonies are a global stage where the host country showcases its...

Feedback and criticism are integral parts of personal and professional growth. And, the impact of feedback can vary widely, sometimes hitting us like a grain of salt and other times feeling as heavy as a boulder. Understanding why this happens and how to navigate these varying impacts is key to harnessing the power of feedback effectively.

The Grain of Salt: When Feedback Feels Manageable

When feedback is constructive and delivered thoughtfully, it often feels manageable—like a grain of salt. In these instances, the feedback is usually:

1. Specific and Actionable: Clear, targeted suggestions that offer a path for improvement can feel empowering. Knowing exactly what to work on makes the feedback feel like a helpful nudge rather than a daunting challenge.

2. Delivered with Empathy: When the person providing feedback shows understanding and compassion, it softens the impact. A supportive tone can make even critical feedback easier to digest.

3. Aligned with Personal...

Aging is an inevitable journey we all embark upon (thankfully), and along this path, we encounter a myriad of experiences that shape and define us. The choices we make and the attitudes we adopt significantly influence the people we become. It's often said that as you get older, you either become your worst self or your best self, (or like your parents). I think everyone has had a vision of themselves in socks and sandals on the front lawn yelling to the neighborhood kids “Get off my lawn!” This dichotomy captures the essence of how our character evolves over time. 

The Path to Becoming Your Worst Self (DO NOT FOLLOW THIS PATH)

Becoming your worst self is a gradual process that stems from neglecting personal growth and allowing negative traits to dominate your life. Here are some common pitfalls:

1. Complacency: It’s easy to become set in our ways at any age (hello toddlers). This rigidity can lead to stagnation, preventing us from adapting to...

In our rapidly evolving world, effective communication stands as a cornerstone of personal and professional relationships. Yet, despite the numerous ways we can connect—whether through speech, writing, or digital media—trust remains a precious and often elusive commodity. The adage "actions speak louder than words" resonates deeply in this context. For trust to flourish, our actions must consistently align with our words.

The Essence of Trust in Communication

Trust is the bedrock of any meaningful relationship, whether between friends, family members, colleagues, or organizations and their stakeholders. It fosters a sense of security and confidence, enabling open and honest exchanges. And, trust is not granted automatically; it is earned through consistent and reliable behavior over time.

The Disconnect Between Words and Actions

One of the most significant barriers to building trust is the discrepancy between what people say and what they do. We've all...