We live in Plan A. We survive in Plan B. If the fire happens, the massive storm, or any form of the big "Oh No!" arrives, what's your plan? Not every catastrophe involves 911. A "Mayday!" moment can be staffing turmoil. What, Tom quit? Who'll do his job? When Tom Quits, Consider […]
I'm not a particularly fast typist, and this lack of speed proved a blessing in my life. In one of my first jobs, I was chosen for a front-desk position instead of the clerical spot I wanted because I couldn't meet the required word count per minute. This role assignment helped set […]
I always have fresh flowers. Yes, I'm bragging about my husband, who set up regular deliveries for me. I welcome the weekly arrival of fresh arrangements. He knows I love flowers, and he's that kind of guy. Yes, I'm lucky! When Planning Clicks, You Know It's Right I'm thinking of April, the blooming […]
My husband keeps up with the tech of the day, but he still loves his papers and color-coded filing system, which is always neat and orderly. But in an increasingly paperless business world, our files are accessed through a search bar, not a file cabinet, and keeping track of everything takes time and effort. […]
"You just got lucky!" Have you ever admired the person saying that? It's not a great look, is it? That's a jealous phrase. It's ugly and unimaginative. I vowed long ago not to be a person who says such things. That's a waste of time. Instead, I say, "Good for you!" And I […]
A business filled with “yes men” or “yes women” who are scared to upset the boss will stagnate and die. That’s why I never want fear to be the prime motivator in my company. Do you? If one of my employees makes a mistake, I simply want a conversation, not a scolding. What happened? […]
The "get-rich-quick" mentality is the source of so many crazy stories, right? It's the realm of bankruptcies, heartbreak, and so much drama. The "quick" part is what does people in. Everyone wants to "get rich," but many people lack patience and take terrible risks in hopes of easy riches, then pay a steep price. […]
Whether by email, phone call, text, or face-to-face, the "two-week notice" can come like a gut punch when it's one of your best employees. We dread those moments, but they're inevitable in the business world. People pursue other interests. Goals change. Family situations require a move. It happens. But here's what doesn't need […]
I keep a positive attitude about life, and there's so much that brings me joy: my connections with others, my sweet dog "Adrian," the first bite of delicious homemade chocolate ice cream — we lay the chocolate on super heavy! I'm Team Chocolate. Boo, vanilla! But I'm also a devoted realist when it comes […]
I realized early on, after some hardship, that the best gifts in life are the ones I give to myself. My present self is always focused on being a thoughtful gift-giver to my future self. I apply this to all things in life, big and small. If something needs to be ironed, I give […]