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<p>Inspiration, Thoughts and Articles to Life a Life You Love!</p>]]></description><item><title>Your Talent Development Budget’s Been Slashed. Now What?</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 23:03:31 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2026/4/8/your-talent-development-budgets-been-slashed-now-what</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:69d6dc93072d7d4ff08d138d</guid><description><![CDATA[A trend is evident across organizations: budgets are tightening, and talent 
development is often one of the first areas to take a hit. As investment in 
AI climbs, budgets for training, leadership development, and teambuilding 
are decreasing.

It’s logical on paper. AI is the future. It promises speed, efficiency, 
scalability, and cost savings. Organizations are transforming to meet 
future demands, and AI investments are vital for long-term success.

However, there’s a risk quietly building beneath the surface: we’re 
optimizing organizations through AI while underinvesting in the humans 
doing the work. That’s a dangerous tradeoff.

What happens when we inadvertently deprioritize the growth, development, 
and human connection of the people managing these AI processes – and 
everything else that keeps organizations running smoothly? The unintended 
consequences may not show up on a dashboard, in OKRs or KPIs today or 
tomorrow. But they will. Disengagement, eroded trust, and talent loss often 
don’t announce themselves until it’s too late.

As budgets shift and AI investment accelerates, the real question isn’t: 
How much can AI replace? Instead, it’s How can we best-equip humans to 
succeed and thrive in an AI-powered workplace?

The answer is not to slow AI development, but to match it with an equal and 
continued commitment to the human-forward development of people.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class=""><em>In my latest article on TalentCulture, </em><a href="https://talentculture.com/blog/your-talent-development-budgets-been-slashed-now-what/"><strong><em>Your Talent Development Budget’s Been Slashed. Now What?</em></strong></a><strong><em> </em></strong><em>, I address an evident trend across organizations: budgets are tightening, and talent development is often one of the first areas to take a hit. As investment in AI climbs, budgets for training, leadership development, and teambuilding are decreasing. <br> <br></em><strong><em>And there’s a risk quietly building beneath the surface: we’re optimizing organizations through AI while underinvesting in the humans doing the work. That’s a dangerous tradeoff.</em></strong><em> <br> <br>What happens when we inadvertently deprioritize the growth, development, and human connection of the people managing these AI processes – and everything else that keeps organizations running smoothly?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The unintended consequences may not show up on a dashboard, in OKRs or KPIs today or tomorrow. But they will. Disengagement, eroded trust, and talent loss often don’t announce themselves until it’s too late. <br> <br>As budgets shift and AI investment accelerates, the real question isn’t: How much can AI replace?&nbsp;Instead, it’s How can we best-equip humans to succeed and thrive in an AI-powered workplace?<br><br>The answer is not to slow AI development, but to&nbsp;match it with an equal and continued commitment to the human-forward development of people.<br> <br>I discuss the challenges, the trade-offs, and, most importantly, 6 things you can do now with little to no budget to invest in your people and their growth. </em></p><p class="">I hope you find this useful and would love to hear how you're navigating these challenges in the workplace.</p><p class="">Here's to investing in the people who make everything else possible.</p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1775688999617-MO0MQGOAYX05FTS8VIHP/1774473643869.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="800" height="800"><media:title type="plain">Your Talent Development Budget’s Been Slashed. Now What?</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>​Change Leadership Made Simple: How Great Leaders Can Inspire Teams Through Uncertainty</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:50:32 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2025/11/7/change-leadership-made-simple-how-great-leaders-can-inspire-teams-through-uncertainty</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:690e136397befb525a5b8ff1</guid><description><![CDATA[After years of coaching leaders through change - and navigating plenty 
myself - I’m excited to share my latest Forbes Coaches Council article:

Change Leadership Made Simple: How Great Leaders Can Inspire Teams Through 
Uncertainty.

Change is everywhere - at work and in life.

New initiatives. New strategies. New technologies. Shifts in leadership, 
roles, objectives. Career transitions, promotions, layoffs.

Sometimes we choose it. Sometimes it chooses us. But we’re all experiencing 
something new.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="">After years of coaching leaders through change - and navigating plenty myself - I’m excited to share my latest <strong><em>Forbes Coaches Council</em></strong><em> </em>article:</p><p class=""><a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2025/10/30/change-leadership-made-simple-how-great-leaders-can-inspire-teams-through-uncertainty/" target="_blank">​<span><strong><em>Change Leadership Made Simple: How Great Leaders Can Inspire Teams Through Uncertainty</em></strong></span><strong><em>.</em></strong></a></p><p class="">Change is everywhere - at work and in life.<br><br>New initiatives. New strategies. New technologies. Shifts in leadership, roles, objectives. Career transitions, promotions, layoffs.</p><p class=""><strong>Sometimes we choose it. Sometimes it chooses us. But we’re all experiencing something new.</strong>​<br><br>A few months ago, I sent my twin daughters off to college, on opposite sides of the country and thousands of miles from home. And I was reminded once again just how challenging change can be, and how much it takes to navigate through it.</p><p class="">That's why I'm so excited to share<a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2025/10/30/change-leadership-made-simple-how-great-leaders-can-inspire-teams-through-uncertainty/" target="_blank"> <span>this article</span></a>. In it, I distill what I’ve learned about leading through transitions - both personal and professional - into three essentials:</p><ol data-rte-list="default"><li><p class="">Recognize the Change Curve - The “dip” is inevitable; growth comes when you lead through it.</p></li><li><p class="">Balance the Strategic, Tactical, and Emotional - vision and process matter, but so do empathy and compassion.</p></li><li><p class="">Know Yourself- self-awareness is your greatest anchor during transition.<br>​</p></li></ol><p class="">I continue to remind myself that resistance is normal, the "dip" is temporary, and no matter how hard it might seem in the moment, something great is almost always on the other side.</p><p class="">I hope you find this article helpful in navigating whatever change you may be experiencing, and it serves as a friendly reminder that you're never alone.</p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/png" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1762530194650-6CPH58034QGW19WLQLYH/Change+Leadership+Title+.png?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="800" height="800"><media:title type="plain">​Change Leadership Made Simple: How Great Leaders Can Inspire Teams Through Uncertainty</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Self-Awareness: The Leadership Game-Changer</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2025 19:14:11 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2025/7/17/self-awareness-the-leadership-game-changer</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:68794a7832857924633ecd6e</guid><description><![CDATA[We all think we know ourselves. But do we really? In this article I wrote 
for TalentCulture, I discuss how leadership self-awareness isn’t about good 
intentions or taking one personality test—it’s about consistently 
understanding how your behavior affects others.

If you’re thinking, “I’ve done the work”, here’s the catch: you may 
think you know yourself. Odds are, you mostly do. But real self-awareness 
isn’t static. And the blind spots that held you back five years ago? They 
may still be showing up in subtler, more impactful ways.

When leaders fail to recognize that they might be the problem, their teams 
suffer—and so does business performance.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="">We all&nbsp;think&nbsp;we know ourselves. But do we really? Leadership self-awareness isn’t about good intentions or taking one personality test—it’s about consistently understanding how your behavior affects others.<br> <br>If you’re thinking, “I’ve done the work”, here’s the catch: you may think&nbsp;you know yourself. Odds are, you&nbsp;mostly&nbsp;do. But real self-awareness isn’t static. And the blind spots that held you back five years ago? They may still be showing up in subtler, more impactful ways.<br> <br>When leaders fail to recognize that&nbsp;they&nbsp;might be the problem, their teams suffer—and so does business performance. <br><br>Check out this short article to diagnose the depth of your leadership self-awareness and get five easy-to-action strategies to increase your impact.</p><p class=""><a href="https://talentculture.com/blog/self-awareness-the-leadership-game-changer/">Self-Awareness: The Leadership Game-Changer</a></p><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1752779802584-N2E0GPDE6RNRV2IB6FOV/kelly-sikkema-S47XBGwRZkc-unsplash.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="1000"><media:title type="plain">Self-Awareness: The Leadership Game-Changer</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Power Of The Pause</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 21 May 2025 16:29:51 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2025/5/21/power-of-the-pause</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:682df8978f70eb7abfa5bb66</guid><description><![CDATA[One of the more undervalued and less frequently discussed behaviors of 
great leaders is the ability to pause— to step back and stay calm under 
pressure. Pausing is a critical yet often overlooked skill that allows a 
leader to block out the noise, chaos, and competing opinions of others and 
identify the best way forward.

In this Forbes article, you’ll learn to master the power of the pause with 
one of my favorite leadership tools --- the AHA Method.

Where can you start using the power of the pause in your leadership and 
life?

Power Of The Pause]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="">One of the more undervalued and less frequently discussed behaviors of great leaders is the ability to pause— to step back and stay calm under pressure. Pausing is a critical yet often overlooked skill that allows a leader to block out the noise, chaos, and competing opinions of others and identify the best way forward. <br> <br>Emotions tend to run high at work, especially during VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) times. The power of the pause is about recognizing your state, taking a deep breath, slowing down, and deciding how to proceed. It’s finding safety in the eye of the hurricane: a calm center where clarity emerges, enabling leaders to navigate the storm effectively. <br><br>Pausing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, countering the "fight-or-flight" response and shifting you from reactive to responsive behavior. Instead of making impulsive, emotion-driven decisions, a pause allows for calmer assessment and intentional action. This leads to better decisions, reduced biases, and more creative solutions.<br> <br>In this article, you’ll learn to master the power of the pause with one of my favorite leadership tools --- the AHA Method.<br><br>Where can you start using the power of the pause in your leadership and life?</p><p class=""><a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2025/04/02/power-of-the-pause/">Power Of The Pause</a></p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1747845143383-PWY3EOXIWO718EPQGXYK/ante-hamersmit-qg6MDcCWBfM-unsplash.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="844"><media:title type="plain">Power Of The Pause</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Survival Isn't Success: Leaving A Toxic Work Environment</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 21 May 2025 15:57:09 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2025/5/21/survival-isnt-success-leaving-a-toxic-work-environment</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:682df6345d440937c40b3c74</guid><description><![CDATA[Many of us have experienced the murky waters of a work culture gone wrong. 
In this article on Forbes, I unpack the signs—and impacts—of a toxic work 
environment and what to do if you find yourself there.

Survival Isn't Success: Leaving A Toxic Work Environment]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="">Many of us have experienced the murky waters of a work culture gone wrong. In this article on <strong>Forbes</strong>, I unpack the signs—and impacts—of a toxic work environment and what to do if you find yourself there.</p><p class="">There are certain times when people are inspired to take stock of their lives:</p><ul data-rte-list="default"><li><p class="">What’s working, and what’s not?</p></li><li><p class="">What brings me joy, and what drains me?</p></li><li><p class="">What have I accomplished this year, and what do I want next year to hold?</p></li></ul><p class="">I’m a big believer in self-reflection, and these are all important questions to consider. After all, we only get one life, and it’s worth building a life we truly love—or at least <em>really</em> like!</p><p class="">For many of my clients, workplace toxicity is one of the biggest barriers to happiness and thriving. Considering we spend over a third of our waking hours at work, it’s no surprise that job satisfaction directly impacts our overall well-being. That’s why it’s so important to work in an environment that energizes you instead of draining you.</p><p class="">If you’re feeling weighed down by a toxic workplace, I encourage you to read on and let me know your thoughts - what resonates with you?</p><p class=""><a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2024/11/19/survival-isnt-success-leaving-a-toxic-work-environment/">Survival Isn't Success: Leaving A Toxic Work Environment</a></p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1747842921524-EUWFVB5D7FVLRD7QRRBJ/resume-genius-f2JMVDnarks-unsplash.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="1000"><media:title type="plain">Survival Isn't Success: Leaving A Toxic Work Environment</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Creating A Collaborative Workplace: Six Strategies That Actually Work</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 21 May 2025 15:40:22 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2025/5/21/creating-a-collaborative-workplace-six-strategies-that-actually-work</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:682df198f0393d087cf9d50e</guid><description><![CDATA[We all know that collaboration is critical, but many leaders struggle to 
harness it effectively. Leaders can't simply tell their team to “Be more 
collaborative!” They must dedicate time and intentionality to making it 
happen. This Forbes piece is chock-full of tips and strategies to get back 
to basics and effectively foster a collaborative environment.

Creating A Collaborative Workplace: Six Strategies That Actually Work]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="">We all know that collaboration is critical, but many leaders struggle to harness it effectively. Leaders can't simply tell their team to “Be more collaborative!” They must dedicate time and intentionality to making it happen. This piece is chock-full of tips and strategies to get back to basics and effectively foster a collaborative environment. <br><br>If you’re a leader looking to drive greater collaboration, I invite you to take a read this <strong>Forbes</strong> piece and try out these strategies. I’d love to hear your thoughts!</p><p class=""><a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2024/09/10/creating-a-collaborative-workplace-six-strategies-that-actually-work/">Creating A Collaborative Workplace: Six Strategies That Actually Work</a></p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1747841793872-F5RAWR80HZIVRWKN88XB/krakenimages-376KN_ISplE-unsplash.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="1000"><media:title type="plain">Creating A Collaborative Workplace: Six Strategies That Actually Work</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Have you Heard of "Lucky Girl Syndrome?"</title><category>Tracy Kennedy's Blog</category><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2023 23:38:24 +0000</pubDate><link>https://katiecouric.com/culture/lucky-girl-syndrome-toxic-manifestation-tiktok-trend/</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:6462b91eba853c54a1852598</guid><description><![CDATA[I was thrilled to be contacted by the team at Katie Couric Media to weigh 
in on a timely topic called, “Lucky Girl Syndrome.” I had a wonderful 
discussion with the reporter on the benefits of positive thinking, the 
downfalls of toxic positivity, and how “luck” plays a role in creating the 
lives of our dreams. We talked about the seductive and trendy nature of 
"manifesting" and the importance of "putting in the work".]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <h2>I was thrilled to be contacted by the team at Katie Couric Media to weigh in on a timely topic called, “Lucky Girl Syndrome.”</h2><p class="">If you’re wondering what “Lucky Girl Syndrome” is, the author defines it as, “the belief that the use of affirmations and positive thinking will manifest your hopes and dreams — including big wins like money, luxury apartments, or major career shifts." Think Gen Z's version of The Secret and The Power of Positivity - the philosophy that you can obtain all that you want if you just 'ask, believe, and receive'.</p><p class="">I had a wonderful discussion with the reporter on the benefits of positive thinking, the downfalls of toxic positivity, and how “luck” plays a role in creating the lives of our dreams. We talked about the seductive and trendy nature of "manifesting" and the importance of "putting in the work".</p><p class="">Check out the article here: <a href="https://katiecouric.com/culture/lucky-girl-syndrome-toxic-manifestation-tiktok-trend/" target="_blank">Gen Z Is Reinventing ‘The Secret’ With an Emphasis on Luck: What Lucky Girl Syndrome gets wrong about positive thinking — and expert advice on how to use manifestation and affirmations healthily</a>.</p><p class="">My conversation with the journalist was prompted by a popular article I wrote for Lifehack on <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/874882/toxic-positivity" target="_blank">Toxic Positivity: Why Being Positive Could Be Bad Sometimes</a>. In the article, we explore how the “good vibes only” mentality can be detrimental, share examples of toxic positivity, and, most importantly, offer strategies for what you can do instead.</p><p class="">And while we're on the topic, you might want to check out this article too - <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/how-handle-negative-emotions.html" target="_blank">Why Negative Emotions Aren’t That Bad (And How to Handle Them)</a>. Writing this article stretched and changed me in many ways. If you know me, you'll know why. As someone with a natural disposition towards positive thinking who was raised in a family of hopeful optimists, I spent a lot of my life trying to ignore so-called "negative emotions." But at what cost?</p><p class="">The theme with all of these articles? Balance and Authenticity.</p><p class="">Ultimately, life is full of ups and downs, good times and bad, joy and sadness. Positivity, belief, hope, and optimism are essential elements to success and happiness...and yet...it’s important to recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy positivity and luck and hard work. Acknowledge, embrace, and learn from the tough times and know the power you have to build a life you love.</p><p class="">With love (and a little bit of luck),<br>Tracy</p>





















  
  



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&nbsp;<p><a href="https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/lucky-girl-syndrome">Permalink</a><p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1684193677353-GVHWQPH2V579J9FQ25OI/Lucky-Girl-Syndrome_-scaled.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="926"><media:title type="plain">Have you Heard of "Lucky Girl Syndrome?"</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Bring on the Confidence! </title><category>Tracy Kennedy's Blog</category><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2023 19:17:34 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/simple-ways-to-boost-your-confidence</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:63e14d008f49aa01358a4052</guid><description><![CDATA[Looking for ways to build your confidence? Check out this podcast and 
article to help you - and your kids -have the confidence to seize 
opportunities, take chances, embark on the next steps in your life or 
career, and live a life you love.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <p class="">Welcome to February - I hope your year is off to a great start!</p><p class="">If it's been anything like our household, it’s been a rocky one, with lots going on and many challenges. I often reflect on how life can be such an intense roller coaster of ups and downs – some days filled with stress, adversity, and overwhelm and others with fulfillment, joy, and relief.</p><p class="">There’s a great quote about life by L.R. Knost that is top of mind for me in times like this:</p><blockquote><p class=""><em>“Life is amazing. And then it's awful. And then it's amazing again. And in between the amazing and awful, it's ordinary and mundane and routine. Breathe in the amazing, hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary. That's just living heartbreaking, soul-healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it's breathtakingly beautiful.”</em></p></blockquote><h2>As we dive into February, <strong>I’d like to provide a few resources to help you manage the awful, amazing, ordinary, and everything in-between –</strong> with <em>confidence</em>. </h2><p class="">Each day, we can embrace a new start as we face our challenges, learn and grow.</p><h3><strong>Thriving Family Podcast: </strong><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/8-how-to-boost-your-confidence-best-confidence-building/id1622289300?i=1000596757383" target="_blank"><strong>Check out this episode all about boosting your - and your kids' - confidence</strong></a><strong>. </strong>I was thrilled to discuss this incredibly important topic with hosts Barbara Stratte (one of my best friends since we were 14!) and her co-host, Tereza Fonda.</h3><p class="">Here's what you'll learn in our conversation:</p><ul data-rte-list="default"><li><p class="">The difference between confidence and self-esteem.</p></li><li><p class="">The genetic component to confidence. (Did you know 50% of our confidence is built in?!)</p></li><li><p class="">How to shut down ruminating thoughts and negative self-talk.</p></li><li><p class="">Simple strategies to help you – and your kiddos – build confidence, including: taking action, identifying your strengths, and surrounding yourself with supportive people.</p></li><li><p class="">Four ways to change your “state” (and my favorite 2-minute hack to immediately build your confidence);</p></li><li><p class=""><em>and more!</em></p></li></ul><h3><strong>Lifehack Article: </strong><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/683919/how-to-be-more-confident-the-definitive-step-by-step-guide" target="_blank"><strong>Check out this article for 10 Powerful Ways to Be More Confident</strong></a><strong>. </strong>I’m excited to reshare this post as it's of the most popular articles I’ve published.<strong> </strong>With more than a quarter-million views, this topic clearly resonates with readers. In this quick read, you’ll get a step-by-step guide to build and maintain your confidence so you can tackle anything and everything life throws your way.</h3><p class="">We all have crises of confidence and moments of self-doubt.<em> </em>But I leave you with this to consider: <em>What can you achieve with the right amount of confidence? What impact would a little more confidence have on your work, relationships, and happiness? What can you encourage others to accomplish by bolstering their confidence?</em></p><p class="">Here’s to a great rest of the year filled with the confidence to seize opportunities, take chances, embark on the next steps in your life or career, and <em>live a life you love</em>.</p><p class="">You got this.</p>





















  
  



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&nbsp;<p><a href="https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/simple-ways-to-boost-your-confidence">Permalink</a><p>]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1675710858758-TG772LYWLHEA1Q4F6QMT/Picture1.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1349" height="1349"><media:title type="plain">Bring on the Confidence!</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>How to Figure Out Your Next Career Move</title><category>Tracy Kennedy's Blog</category><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2022 18:59:11 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/how-to-figure-out-your-next-career-move</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:6377d319038db35fed65c8ca</guid><description><![CDATA[If you’re considering making a move or looking to develop your career 
further, this is a great time to take a step back, and reflect on what’s 
most important to you and what you want for your future. In this article, 
you’ll learn what’s going on with this seismic shift in careers, why it can 
be so hard to make a move, and five clear and simple steps to take if 
you’re ready to make a change.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <h2>November is <strong>National Career Development Month</strong> and it’s time to talk about YOUR career.</h2><p class="">You’ve likely seen the headlines and heard about “The Great Resignation”, “the big quit” and “quiet quitting”. The numbers are staggering; over four million people are leaving their jobs each month and <strong>87%</strong> of people are open to finding better job opportunities.</p><p class="">But as a leadership and career development coach and consultant, I’m not surprised. The stats back up the sentiment I hear from clients every day.</p><ul data-rte-list="default"><li><p class=""><strong>85%</strong> of employees worldwide are not engaged at work.</p></li><li><p class=""><strong>83%</strong> of U.S. workers suffer from work-related stress, with<strong> 25%</strong> saying their job is the number one stressor in their lives.</p></li><li><p class="">With only <strong>33%</strong> of employees <em>thriving</em> in their overall wellbeing, most would say that they don't find their work meaningful, don't think their lives are going well, or don't feel hopeful about their future.</p></li></ul><p class="">Some are leaving jobs due to toxic company cultures, bad managers, low salaries, and a lack of healthy work-life balance. Others are looking for change – something new or different, greater fulfillment, a chance to give back, start their own thing, or that elusive “something more.”<br><br><strong>If you’re considering making a move – or looking to develop your career further, Career Development Month is a great time to take a step back, look at your life and career, and reflect on what’s most important to you and what you <em>really</em> want for your future.</strong></p><h3><strong>In my newest article on Lifehack, </strong><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/939257/career-move" target="_blank"><strong><em>How to Discover Your Next Career Move Amid the Great Resignation</em></strong></a><strong>, you’ll learn:</strong></h3><ul data-rte-list="default"><li><p class="">What’s going on with this seismic shift in careers</p></li><li><p class="">Why it can be so hard to make a move</p></li><li><p class="">Five clear and simple steps to take if you’re ready to make a change</p></li></ul><p class="">I know the path to developing yourself and considering a career shift can come with a lot of fears and what-ifs. It can be terrifying. But you know what’s even scarier? Looking back a year from now – in the same place you are today – wishing you’d done something more to move your life and career in a direction more aligned with your hopes and goals.</p><p class="">I look forward to your thoughts and feedback as you take this opportunity to read, reflect and recharge your career.</p><p class=""><strong>******Special Offer!</strong> For the month of November, in honor of National Career Development Month, I'm offering my <a href="https://tracy-kennedy-coaching.teachable.com/p/discover-your-next" target="_blank"><em>5 Steps to Discover Your Next</em></a> course for only $19 when you use the coupon code CAREER at checkout. That's over 95% off the normal course price of $497. I hope to help as many people as possible dream big and find a career that is personally and professionally fulfilling. <strong>Learn more and enroll in my <em>Discover Your Next</em> course for just $19 </strong><a href="https://tracy-kennedy-coaching.teachable.com/p/discover-your-next" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.******</strong></p>





















  
  



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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1668797776439-SWSUJ1SZJ2UNPQ1Q7XHK/career.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="997"><media:title type="plain">How to Figure Out Your Next Career Move</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>5 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health from Social Media</title><category>Tracy Kennedy's Blog</category><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 08 Sep 2022 23:52:40 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/social-media-and-mental-health-well-being</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:631a68d48518bd6b1cbc3f5d</guid><description><![CDATA[We all know social media is a wonderful tool for connecting and opening our 
minds and hearts; it’s also a great outlet for creativity, gathering 
information, learning, and doing business. However, if we don’t manage it 
well, it can also be highly detrimental to our mental health and 
well-being. In my latest article on Lifehack, I share the 5 most common 
problems you may be facing from social media misuse and overuse - alongside 
strategies you can easily implement to reclaim your mental health, 
well-being, and joy.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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            <p class="">Happy Valentine’s Day! </p>
          </figcaption>
        
      
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  <h2>We all know <strong>#socialmedia</strong> is a wonderful tool for connecting and opening our minds and hearts; it’s also a great outlet for creativity, gathering information, learning, and doing business. However, if we don’t manage it well, it can also be highly detrimental to our <strong>#mentalhealth</strong> and <strong>#wellbeing</strong> </h2><h3>In my latest article on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/" target="_blank"><strong>Lifehack</strong></a>, I share the 5 most common problems you may be facing from social media misuse and overuse - alongside strategies you can easily implement to reclaim your mental health, well-being, and joy. </h3><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p>





















  
  



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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1662680557594-94C5CJELKFPXO0JWL78P/Mental+Health+and+Social+Media.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1170" height="1170"><media:title type="plain">5 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health from Social Media</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Live a Life You LOVE!</title><category>Tracy Kennedy's Blog</category><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Tue, 15 Feb 2022 00:11:49 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2022/live-a-life-you-love</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:61f19fc86ebfa41659e28105</guid><description><![CDATA[February is often associated with LOVE, which aligns perfectly with my 
mission: to help people live a life they love. Today, as we celebrate 
Valentine's Day, I’d love to share a couple of my previous articles that 
seem timely as we shower others with love and affection. Isn’t it important 
to also shower ourselves with love and affection, too?]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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          <figcaption class="image-caption-wrapper">
            <p class="">Happy Valentine’s Day! </p>
          </figcaption>
        
      
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  <h2>February is often associated with LOVE, which aligns perfectly with my mission: to help people <strong><em>live a life they love</em></strong>.</h2><p class="">Today, as we celebrate Valentine's Day, I’d love to share a couple of my previous articles that seem timely as we shower <em>others </em>with love and affection. Isn’t it important to also shower <em>ourselves </em>with love and affection, too?</p><h2><a href="https://click.convertkit-mail.com/38ugk55npakh8ppnzfr/e0hph7hk5xlgqwc8/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubGlmZWhhY2sub3JnLzgzNDc0Ny9zZWxmLWNhcmU=" target="_blank"><strong>30 Self-Care Habits for a Strong and Healthy Mind, Body and Spirit</strong></a></h2><p class="">Self-care is not just about spa days and massages. It’s not just for women and it’s not a selfish luxury. </p><p class="">It’s about filling yourself up – through a wide variety of means – so you can effectively take care of yourself <em>and </em>others.   It is what gives you energy, strength, and resilience to keep going,  even when times get tough. Self-care nourishes your mind, body, and  spirit and allows you to thrive. It increases your happiness, ability to  be successful, and the quality of your life and relationships. Click  the link above to get 30 self-care strategies you can do today.</p><h3><a href="https://pages.convertkit.com/5150617c27/2eaa81254a" target="_blank">&lt;&lt;<strong>If you’d like to get all this great information summarized in one beautiful and convenient report, you can also <br>download my FREE Self-Care Guide Here &gt;&gt;</strong></a></h3><h2><a href="https://click.convertkit-mail.com/38ugk55npakh8ppnzfr/7qh7h8h03g67wmiz/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudHJhY3lrZW5uZWR5LmNvbS9ibG9nL2hvdy10by1saWZlLWxpZmUtdG8tdGhlLWZ1bGxlc3Q=" target="_blank"><strong>10 Strategies to Live Life to the Fullest</strong></a></h2><p class="">We have one life to live, and I believe we should all live a life we love — or at least really like. </p><p class="">The article above was inspired by a  conversation I had with my daughter as I was tucking her into bed one  night. As she held her stuffed lambie close to her face and we talked  about the day, she paused from our conversation for a moment… “<em>Mom</em>,” she said quietly, “<em>You want to spend life the best way you can. Because you only have one life and you want to make it good</em>.”  She was seven at the time, wise beyond her years. And she was right.  Read the article at the link above to get 10 strategies to live a life  you love.</p><p class=""><strong>It's time to show yourself appreciation for who you are and all that you do. </strong>As  you celebrate today, in whatever way you have planned, I invite you to  check out these resources -  and find and take action on something that  helps you to love the life you're living and live a life you love. </p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/png" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1644880504408-Y3586VC0KZJXMAP1ENT3/All+you+need+is+love.png?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1080" height="1080"><media:title type="plain">Live a Life You LOVE!</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Why New Year Resolutions Fail And How to Set Yourself up for Success</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 23:03:29 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2022/new-year-resolutions-set-yourself-up-for-success</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:61ef2bfe2a69d65b1a121e40</guid><description><![CDATA[80% of people give up on their New Year Resolutions by the second week of 
February. Have you set your New Years' resolutions or goals? Are you still 
on track and committed? There are many reasons that resolutions fail; this 
article tackles the seven challenges you might face and how to set yourself 
up for success this year.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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            <p class="">How To Set Yourself Up For Success This New Year 2022</p>
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  <p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><h2>Every year, millions of people take the opportunity to use January as a fresh start. Are you one of them?</h2><p class="">After another challenging and strange year in 2021, many are excited about 2022 with the hope of change and new possibilities.</p><p class="">But change and opportunity don’t come by chance. They come by being&nbsp;<strong>clear&nbsp;</strong>and&nbsp;<strong>intentional&nbsp;</strong>about what you<em>&nbsp;want the year to look like</em>&nbsp;and<em>&nbsp;what you will do to make it happen</em>.</p><p class="">That’s why the process of setting New Year’s goals, resolutions, or visions is so essential. It provides a chance to stop and reflect on your hopes and plans for the new year –&nbsp;<strong>to bring consciousness and intention to your life.</strong></p><p class="">Are you on track with your New Year's goals? If your answer is no, you're not alone!&nbsp;According to U.S. News &amp; World Report, 80% of people give up on their New Year resolutions by the second week of February. That's just around the corner.</p><h3><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/819361/why-new-year-resolutions-fail" target="_blank"><strong>Read my latest article: Why New Year Resolutions Fail and How to Set Yourself Up for Success</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong>to learn about the challenges you might face and get strategies to stay on track.</h3><p class="">Who knows what this year will bring. But whatever happens, and regardless of external circumstances,&nbsp;<strong><em>you have the power to make this year great</em></strong>. You have the power to create change and discover new possibilities. You have the power to achieve your goals.</p><p class=""><strong>Expect great things.&nbsp;</strong>Then, go after them with commitment, passion, and resilience. Here’s to an incredible 2022!</p><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><p class="">***If you know you want to make a change this year, but you're not sure where to start, check out my&nbsp;<a href="https://tracy-kennedy-coaching.teachable.com/p/discover-your-next" target="_blank"><strong><em>online course: 5 Steps To Discover Your Next</em></strong></a><strong><em>.&nbsp;</em></strong>I’m committed to helping you get the year started on the right foot - please use the code NEWYEAR at checkout to get the course for just $47, a 90% discount. This special offer ends at the end of January!***</p><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><p class="">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@mero_dnt?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Chinh Le Duc</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></p>























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                <img data-stretch="false" data-image="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png" data-image-dimensions="468x146" data-image-focal-point="0.5,0.5" alt="" data-load="false" elementtiming="system-image-block" src="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=1000w" width="468" height="146" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, (max-width: 767px) 16.666666666666664vw, 16.666666666666664vw" onload="this.classList.add(&quot;loaded&quot;)" srcset="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=100w 100w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=300w 300w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=500w 500w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=750w 750w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=1000w 1000w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=1500w 1500w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1525379205623-BZYNHVPR13WOE7C6H2X3/Read_it_on_Apple_News_badge_RGB.png?format=2500w 2500w" loading="lazy" decoding="async" data-loader="sqs">

            
          
        
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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1643065320792-V074GG561OCSF3BYHY3U/New+Year.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="1000"><media:title type="plain">Why New Year Resolutions Fail And How to Set Yourself up for Success</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>How To Overcome Setbacks and Use Them For Future Success</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 06 Dec 2021 18:30:30 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2021/how-to-overcome-obstacles-failures-set-yourself-up-for-success</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:61ae4d3a3f37d232e88c3edf</guid><description><![CDATA[At various points in our lives, we are all met with setbacks, failures, and 
obstacles. Some are small, like a speedbump, just enough to slow us down. 
Some are huge, like a wall, and stop us entirely in our tracks.

ALL of them gives us an opportunity - an opportunity to pause, reflect, 
restart, learn, grow and reshape our lives.

If you’re currently experiencing a setback, this article will give you a 
simple, practical 3-step process to overcome your setback and help you set 
yourself up for future success.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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            <p class="">If You Never Know Failure You Will Never Know Success</p>
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  <p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><h2>Life is crazy. Sometimes it's beautiful and amazing—you feel like you’ve got things figured out, you’re on top of the world, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. But sometimes, life sucks. It can be hard, complicated, tragic, and awful, and you can’t imagine how you’re going to take one more step forward.</h2><p class="">At various points in our lives, we are all met with setbacks, failures, and obstacles. Some are small, like a speedbump, just enough to slow us down. Some are huge, like a wall, and stop us entirely in our tracks.</p><h3><strong><em>All&nbsp;</em>of them give us an opportunity—an opportunity to pause, restart, reflect, learn, grow, and reshape our lives.</strong></h3><p class="">My life has been full of setbacks and obstacles. I’ve lost loved ones, missed opportunities, and made huge mistakes at work. I’ve suffered from injuries, accidents, anxiety, and overwhelm. But through them all, I’ve learned how to honor them, get through, and use them to prepare for future success.</p><p class="">While I often couldn’t see it at the time, I now know there have been no mistakes on my journey. Instead, each step has led me to the life I live today. Each scar made me stronger. Each failure helped me learn, and each setback had a strange way of setting me up for the next step in my life.</p><h3><strong>Whatever setback you might be facing and however big or small it may be,&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/7-things-great-leaders-handle-setbacks-and-criticism.html" target="_blank"><span><strong>in my latest article on Lifehack</strong></span></a><strong>, you'll get a simple, practical 3-step process to deal with whatever life throws your way. Read it </strong><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/7-things-great-leaders-handle-setbacks-and-criticism.html"><strong>HERE</strong></a><strong>.</strong></h3><p class="">If you're currently experiencing a setback, it may feel like the end of the world. I promise you, it is not. Instead, it’s a chance for you to define your destiny. You get to choose what happens next.&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>Will this setback take you down, or will this setback be the very thing that defines who you are? It’s completely up to you.</strong></h3><p class="">I hope you find the resources, stories, and strategies&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/7-things-great-leaders-handle-setbacks-and-criticism.html" target="_blank"><span>in this article</span></a>&nbsp;helpful and supportive.  And iff you know someone who’s facing a big setback or obstacle right now, please feel free to pass this on :)</p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/png" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1638815047140-P946F4XNQPX6B5G80ORN/If+you+Never+Know+Failure.png?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="800" height="800"><media:title type="plain">How To Overcome Setbacks and Use Them For Future Success</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Is it Possible to Change Your Personality?</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 29 Jan 2021 03:05:34 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2021/how-to-change-your-personality</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:601373bb1df64c08a5d99a57</guid><description><![CDATA[The notion of whether it is possible to change your personality has been an 
ongoing topic of research and debate over the years. Is personality 
inherited or developed? Nature or nurture? Can people truly change? For 
many years, research showed that our personality was mostly stable. 
However, evidence continues to emerge that we can—and do—change parts of 
our personality across our lifetime.

If you want to make changes, you are not stuck. You don’t have to live with 
character traits or behaviors that may be hurting your life or 
relationships. With clarity and a clear understanding of what you want to 
change, a deep understanding of why you want to change, and focussed time 
and intention, you can change.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><h2>I was&nbsp;asked recently to write an article for <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/890019/how-to-change-your-personality">Lifehack.org</a> on whether or not you can change your personality to become a better person.&nbsp;The notion of whether it is possible to change your personality has been an ongoing topic of research and debate.</h2><p class="">Is personality inherited or developed? Nature or nurture? Can people truly change? For many years, research showed that our personality was mostly stable. However, evidence continues to emerge that we can—and do—change parts of our personality across our lifetime.</p><p class="">In my twenty years of coaching, consulting, and working with people, I have found this is not an&nbsp;<em>either/or&nbsp;</em>debate—it is&nbsp;<em>both</em>. Ultimately, we are all born with a predisposition and characteristics innately hard-wired in us. And, over time and with age,&nbsp;experience, and consciousness,&nbsp;we can build and change parts of our personality, behavior, and actions as we grow and evolve as human beings.</p><p class="">So while some parts of your personality may be hardwired and stable, you are not stuck. You don’t just have to live with character traits or behaviors that may be hurting your life or relationships.</p><p class="">With clarity and a clear understanding of&nbsp;<em>what&nbsp;</em>you want to change, a deep understanding of&nbsp;<em>why&nbsp;</em>you want to change, and&nbsp;<em>time and intention</em>, you can change.</p><p class="">Interested in learning more about how to change?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lifehack.org/890019/how-to-change-your-personality" target="_blank"><span>Read the full article here.</span></a></p><p class="">***Many ancient philosophers, from Aristotle to Socrates and Pythagoras, touted the benefits of “knowing thyself.” One of the most important things to do before you try to&nbsp;<em>change&nbsp;</em>yourself is to truly get to&nbsp;<em>know&nbsp;</em>yourself. One great way to gain self-awareness is to take an assessment tool.&nbsp;If&nbsp;you're interested in learning more, you can take a variety of profiling tools and assessments, all free of charge&nbsp;on one of my favorite platforms&nbsp;for personal and professional development—Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://tracykennedy.cloverleaf.me/l/lifehack"><span>Cloverleaf&nbsp;here</span></a>!***</p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1611887715903-S8C2VB5UGUW5RI4Z4TXS/Is+it+possible+to+change+your+personality.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1050" height="700"><media:title type="plain">Is it Possible to Change Your Personality?</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>You are Not Broken, You are Simply Unfinished</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2021 20:42:16 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2021/you-are-not-broken-you-are-simply-unfinished</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:600f2b7575381c704bba197e</guid><description><![CDATA[Inspired by Amanda Gorman's incredible inaugural poem "The Hill We Climb".]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><h2>Inspired by Amanda Gorman's incredible inaugural poem "The Hill We Climb".⁣</h2><p class="">As I listened with my three daughters and husband, this passage, in particular, called out to me...⁣</p><blockquote><p class="">“Somehow we've weathered and witnessed⁣</p><p class="">a nation that isn't broken⁣</p><p class="">but simply unfinished”⁣</p></blockquote><p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><p class="">This sentiment applies to each of us. ⁣</p><p class="">I am reminded of this every day with my clients, my friends, my family, and myself. ⁣</p><p class="">People often share they feel frustrated, overwhelmed, resigned, discouraged, hopeless or defeated.⁣</p><p class="">They regret the mistakes they’ve made.⁣</p><p class="">They are hard on themselves for things they haven’t yet done or accomplished.⁣</p><p class="">They ruminate about how they should have done better. How they should be more or do more.⁣</p><p class="">They are going through something awful, heartbreaking, or difficult.⁣</p><p class="">They feel lost and broken. ⁣</p><p class="">⁣</p><p class="">And yet we all must remember, in times like those. ⁣</p><p class="">We are not broken; we are simply unfinished.⁣</p><p class="">We are human. We are not finished things; we are ever-evolving beings. Constantly growing, learning, and evolving.</p><p class="">We are always a work in progress. ⁣</p><p class="">⁣</p><p class="">Breakdowns lead to breakthroughs. ⁣</p><p class="">Mistakes lead to lessons.⁣</p><p class="">Darkness leads to light. ⁣</p><p class="">⁣</p><h3><strong>I am not broken; I am simply unfinished.⁣</strong></h3><h3><strong>We are not broken; we are simply unfinished. ⁣</strong></h3><h3><strong>You are not broken; you are simply unfinished. ⁣</strong></h3>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/png" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1611607137307-VLQ5EC5TEWWDZHGGRIKR/You+are+not+broken.png?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="800" height="800"><media:title type="plain">You are Not Broken, You are Simply Unfinished</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>My Hopes for This Year</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Mon, 04 Jan 2021 19:45:13 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/2021/my-hope-for-this-year-2021</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:5feba90832da5052ae3387db</guid><description><![CDATA[THIS YEAR...
May you have more joy and less pain; more hope and less fear.
May you worry less and laugh more.
May you know that all is working out for the greatest good, even when it 
doesn’t feel that way.
May you begin healing from loss and find relief from heartache.
May you realize you have the power within to create a life you love.
May you know it’s never too late to go after a dream, make a change or do 
that thing you’ve always wanted, and may you find courage and strength to 
take the first step forward..
May you…]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <p data-rte-preserve-empty="true" class=""></p><h2>Happy New Year!!!</h2><p class="">As we begin this New Year everyone has been so eagerly anticipating, these are the hopes and wishes I have for 2021. I hope these for myself and my husband, my three daughters, everyone I know and love, you and your loved ones, and every person on this planet.</p><h3><strong>THIS YEAR...</strong></h3><p class="">May you have more joy and less pain; more hope and less fear.</p><p class="">May you worry less and laugh more.</p><p class="">May you know that all is working out for the greatest good, even when it doesn’t feel that way.</p><p class="">May you begin healing from loss and find relief from heartache.</p><p class="">May you realize you have the power within to create a life you love.</p><p class="">May you know it’s never too late to go after a dream, make a change or do that thing you’ve always wanted, and may you find courage and strength to take the first step forward.</p><p class="">May you feel the power of forgiveness as you let go of any resentment you are holding or walls you have put up.</p><p class="">May you dream big and achieve more than you ever thought possible.</p><p class="">May you have patience in your heart and grace for others, knowing everyone around you is doing the best they can.</p><p class="">May you give and receive the kindness we all deserve.</p><p class="">May you have vibrancy, energy, and health, and may you look after your mind, body, and heart with deep awareness and appreciation.</p><p class="">May you heal and be a source of healing in others.</p><p class="">May you know and experience peace.</p><p class="">May you be present in each moment with reverence, awe, and gratitude.</p><p class="">May you love deeply and know you are loved.</p><p class="">May you see the best in yourself and others.</p><p class="">May you hold on tight to what matters most and let go of that which no longer serves you.</p><p class="">May you be surrounded by nature and beauty.</p><p class="">May you live each day with intention and authenticity.</p><p class="">May you live a life true to yourself, not what others expect of you.</p><p class="">May you do the work you’re here to do and share your gifts with the world.</p><p class="">May you have an open heart and mind and a willingness to listen and learn.</p><p class="">May you find your tribe, feel a sense of connection and spend more time with those who make you feel safe and loved, heard and seen.</p><p class="">May you live a life you love and love the life you live.</p><p class="">And most of all, may you believe that all of this is possible.</p><h1 data-rte-preserve-empty="true"></h1>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/png" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1609789488714-P4VUJLDBGV8G5GJ5963V/This+Year.png?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="800" height="800"><media:title type="plain">My Hopes for This Year</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Take Back Control of your Life with Positive Emotions</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2020 19:26:04 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/positive-emotions-take-back-control-of-your-life</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:5fd3c4f86656635ecf04bf1b</guid><description><![CDATA[If you’re feeling anxious, lonely, sad, or down, you are not alone. There 
are many things outside of your control – the pandemic, natural disasters, 
heated politics and unemployment, to name a few. But there is one thing you 
can control each and every day - what's going on inside you. Here I share 
simple ways to quickly evoke the ‘big 10’ positive emotions: love, joy, 
gratitude, serenity, interest, hope, pride, amusement, inspiration, and awe 
so you can feel good even when things are bad.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <h2 data-rte-preserve-empty="true"></h2><h2>Let’s face it, 2020 has not been the year most of us expected or hoped for. For many, it’s been one of the most difficult years of their lives. With uncertainty, loneliness, heartache, fear, anger, and stress at an all-time high, you’ve likely experienced your fair share of bad days, difficult times, and negative emotions.</h2><p class="">If you’re feeling anxious, lonely, sad, or down,&nbsp;<strong>you are not alone.&nbsp;</strong>There are many things&nbsp;<em>outside&nbsp;</em>of your control – the pandemic, natural disasters, heated politics and unemployment, to name a few. But there is one thing you can control each and every day - what's going on&nbsp;<em>inside&nbsp;</em>you.</p><p class="">In the words of Viktor Frankl,&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p class=""><em>“Everything can be taken from us but one thing: the last of human freedoms – <br>to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way”.&nbsp;</em></p></blockquote><p class="">(If you have not read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0807014273?tag=s7621-20"><span><em>Man’s Search for Meaning</em></span></a>, I highly recommend you grab a copy and read it now)</p><p class="">The bottom line? Feeling better isn't just something you have to&nbsp;<em>wait&nbsp;</em>around for. Positive emotions aren’t&nbsp;<em>only&nbsp;</em>created by positive events and good things in our lives. With the right strategies and an understanding of why positivity is so critical, each day can be better.</p><p class="">Now I’m not suggesting you ignore what’s going on in the world and look for only sunshine and rainbows. I&nbsp;<em>am&nbsp;</em>suggesting that instead of holding tight and waiting for 2020 to end (will things really be different on January 1st anyway?), we choose to make the most of each and every day we are given.</p><h3><strong>How?&nbsp;By actively and intentionally bringing positive emotions into each day.</strong></h3><p class="">Now more than ever, we could all use a little more James Brown’s&nbsp;<em>“I Feel Good”</em>&nbsp;energy in our lives.</p><h3><strong>If you're looking for more ways to feel good, even when thing are bad, check out my&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/587392/positive-emotions-the-weapon-to-fighting-negativity" target="_blank"><span><strong>latest article on Lifehack.org</strong></span></a><strong>&nbsp;where I share&nbsp;simple&nbsp;ways to quickly evoke the ‘big 10’ positive emotions: love, joy, gratitude, serenity, interest, hope, pride, amusement, inspiration, and awe.</strong></h3><p class="">Try one, try them all, but do something. Because every day, we have a choice - and a responsibility - to feel good, do good and be the best version of ourselves.&nbsp;</p><p class="">Great changes in history never occurred through negativity and resignation, but through hope and optimism that things could be different. And it’s times like these it becomes even more critical that we find that positivity, tap into our collective strength, resilience, and optimism and power through.</p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1607714452488-XM0236OYAXSQLEYDVX9Y/Positive+Emotions.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1050" height="700"><media:title type="plain">Take Back Control of your Life with Positive Emotions</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>While this Thanksgiving may be different, one thing will remain the same...</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2020 17:20:13 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/gratitude-is-alchemy-be-grateful-happy-thanksgiving</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:5fbfe262e18c5c478e024a30</guid><description><![CDATA[Gratitude is alchemy. Being intentionally grateful is one of the simplest 
and most powerful things we can do to live a full and happy life. Even when 
times are strange, scary and awful, we can always find something to be 
grateful for.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <h2 data-rte-preserve-empty="true"></h2><h2><strong>For those of you celebrating Thanksgiving, I'd like to wish you and your loved ones a very Happy Thanksgiving!</strong></h2><p class="">This has always been one of my favorite holidays. After all, what’s not to love about a day dedicated to the pure and mutual intention of being thankful?</p><p class="">Our family normally spends Thanksgiving together. We all travel to my sisters’ house. Mom makes the turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes. My sister makes the Jell-O with marshmallows and the pop-open biscuits we only have once a year. My daughter and I make spanakopita appetizers (still not sure how that tradition started). My husband makes the gravy and he and my brother somehow always ends up washing the dishes at the end of the night (thank you both).</p><p class="">Extended family and friends arrive with flowers and food and love. Whoever doesn’t have a family to be with that year always joins ours. Cousins run around in the background laughing and playing. Tables are pushed together and set outside as that’s the only place that will fit all of us. It is truly one of my favorite times of the year.</p><p class=""><strong>Of course, this year will look quite different.</strong></p><p class="">We won’t all be together - we’ll be spread across the country in our respective cities and homes. I will miss the cousins laughing and playing together, I will miss catching up with everyone and I will especially miss being with my Mom, the beautiful conductor of it all, bringing everything and everyone together.</p><p class=""><strong>But while this year may be a little different, one thing will remain the same.</strong></p><p class="">Before we eat, we will go around the table and each share what we are thankful for. This family tradition requires us to pause from our lives and intentionally express our gratitude. It is my favorite part of Thanksgiving.</p><p class="">I invite you to do the same, regardless of whether you celebrate Thanksgiving or how it looks this year. I invite you to take a moment to pause and express what you are grateful for - today and every day.</p><p class=""><strong>Gratitude is alchemy. Being intentionally grateful is one of the simplest and most powerful things we can do to live a full and happy life.</strong>&nbsp;Even when times are strange, scary and awful, we can always find something to be grateful for.</p><blockquote><p class=""><em>“As we invite the energy of gratitude into our daily lives we become alchemists…turning dark into light, scarcity into abundance, and fear into love.” </em>– Deepak Chopra.<br></p></blockquote><p class="">I’ll start now.<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Thank you. Thank you for your support, your trust and your time. For reading my emails and articles, sharing your stories and experiences, and for your feedback and appreciation. I'm grateful for you.</p><p class="">With love and gratitude,<br>Tracy</p><p class="">P.S. As a way of saying thank you, and to help you finish the year strong, I’m offering a special&nbsp;<strong>Black Friday sale on my&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://tracy-kennedy-coaching.teachable.com/p/discover-your-next/?product_id=1644456&amp;coupon_code=THANKFUL" target="_blank"><strong><em>Discover Your Next Online Course</em></strong></a><strong>.</strong>&nbsp;If you're feeling a bit stuck or lost, wondering what to do next with your life or career, or just ready to make a change, this course is for you. It will help you figure out your next step so you can start the New Year with clarity, excitement, and certainty you’re heading in the right direction.<strong>&nbsp;Enter the code THANKFUL at checkout&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://tracy-kennedy-coaching.teachable.com/p/discover-your-next/?product_id=1644456&amp;coupon_code=THANKFUL" target="_blank"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;to get 90% off the course today and through the end of November.</strong></p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1606411117609-DE1XEYTL2J2VJ5IK3DJT/heart+cloud.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="1500" height="1500"><media:title type="plain">While this Thanksgiving may be different, one thing will remain the same...</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>How to Stop Being a Perfectionist</title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2020 20:33:03 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/how-to-stop-being-a-perfectionist</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:5f80b334c13d666898fbacba</guid><description><![CDATA[If you’re a perfectionist, you already know the benefits of being 
meticulous, detail-oriented, conscientious, and successful. The challenge 
comes when pursuing these things does not lead to a sense of well-being and 
fulfillment but the very opposite. So, how do you harness your 
perfectionist powers for good? How do you honor your drive, ambition, and 
motivation without causing undue stress, frustration, and pain? In this 
article, I share 9 steps to stop being a perfectionist. Here’s to being 
perfectly imperfect.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <h2>Over the course of my career, I’ve worked with many highly-successful people quick to identify themselves as perfectionists. They're&nbsp;talented people whose relentless drive has helped them achieve many great things.</h2><h2>But while others may be in awe of their achievements, they often talk about feeling stressed out and&nbsp;<em>anything but perfect.</em></h2><p class="">Since if you're reading this, I’m guessing you consider yourself a perfectionist. And if you’re looking for how to&nbsp;<em>stop</em>&nbsp;being a perfectionist, you likely feel your drive for perfection is as much a curse as it is a blessing.</p><p class="">Like any natural force of nature (e.g., wind, fire, or water), there can be too much of a good thing. When the rain waters the earth, for instance, think about how it revives and brings new life to everything it touches. But excessive rain can cause flooding and destruction.</p><p class="">The same principle is true with perfectionism. You likely already know the benefits of being meticulous, detail-oriented, conscientious, and&nbsp;driven. The challenge comes when pursuing these things doesn't lead to a sense of well-being and fulfillment - but the very opposite.</p><p class="">Striving for perfection can bring exhaustion, emptiness, and a sense of failure for one simple reason - it is unattainable. There’s no finish line, checkbox, or wrap party. (Even if it were attainable, and there was a party, would there be anyone left to celebrate with?)</p><h3>So, how do you harness your perfectionist powers for good? How do you honor your drive, ambition, and motivation without causing undue stress, frustration, and pain?​</h3><h3><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/880069/how-to-stop-being-a-perfectionist" target="_blank"><strong>In this article, I share 9 steps on how to stop being a perfectionist.</strong></a></h3><p class="">As you read this article, if you remember nothing else, remember this. You are awesome.&nbsp;You are enough. Imperfections and all. We are human.&nbsp;We&nbsp;are not finished “things” — we are ever-evolving beings.&nbsp;​&nbsp;And&nbsp;simply by being human, we cannot be perfect.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="">Here’s to being perfectly imperfect,<br>Tracy</p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1602274725480-2T9D20WQMMX1DBNT9RYD/Perfection.jpg?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="967" height="725"><media:title type="plain">How to Stop Being a Perfectionist</media:title></media:content></item><item><title>Toxic Positivity: When Being Positive Can Be Bad (and what to do instead) </title><dc:creator>Tracy Kennedy</dc:creator><pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2020 17:43:54 +0000</pubDate><link>https://www.tracykennedy.com/blog/toxic-positivity</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5966569c099c01d2441b81e2:59665c37be65949ae0341784:5eea53fbdf7e9d0046454449</guid><description><![CDATA[It’s time to replace your “Positive Vibes Only” sign with “Real Vibes 
Only”. Because it’s not about being positive or negative, optimistic, 
pessimistic, or anything in between. It’s about being real and authentic. 
Learn more about toxic positivity and more importantly, strategies for what 
you can do instead.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;










































  

    
  
    

      

      
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  <h2>If you had told me a decade ago I would be writing an article on why positivity could be&nbsp;<em>bad</em>, I would have laughed and fought hard to preach the benefits of optimism, the importance of a positive attitude, and how to find the silver lining in everything.</h2><p class="">Writing this article allowed me to reflect deeply on the lessons I have learned over the course of my life and career. And while I’ll always be a big supporter of positive psychology and believe in the many benefits of hope and optimism, I have learned (often the hard way) that there are times when these are not only unhelpful but can be destructive and harmful.</p><blockquote><p class=""><em>Positivity is not positive when it denies, invalidates, or minimizes authentic human emotions.</em></p><p class=""><em>Optimism is not helpful when it makes people feel shame, guilt, or invalidated for feeling a certain way.</em></p><p class=""><em>Hope is not useful when it does not allow for the natural rise and fall of emotions or when it ignores the gravity of a situation.</em></p></blockquote><p class=""><strong>Toxic positivity can be defined as&nbsp;</strong><em>“The overgeneralization of a happy, optimistic state that results in the denial, minimization and invalidation of the authentic human emotional experience”.&nbsp;</em>Examples include: ignoring, hiding, downplaying, or dismissing your emotions or real feelings; feeling bad, guilty, or shameful for how you feel; and invalidating someone’s experience by not acknowledging the real pain or frustration.</p><h3><a href="https://www.lifehack.org/874882/toxic-positivity" target="_blank"><strong>In this article</strong></a><strong>, I share examples of toxic positivity and more importantly, strategies for what you can do instead.</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p class=""><strong>There is a lot going on in the world right now.&nbsp;</strong>We're all experiencing a range of emotions and finding our own ways to process and understand them for ourselves and share them with others. There seems no better time to replace your “Good Vibes Only” sign with “Real Vibes Only”. Because really, it’s not about being positive or negative, optimistic, pessimistic, or anything in between. It’s about being real and authentic.</p><p class="">I have learned that there is a time and place for everything.&nbsp;Right now, more than ever is a time for compassion, acknowledgment, empathy, validation, and true listening.</p><p class="">I'd love to hear your thoughts.</p>























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&nbsp;]]></content:encoded><media:content type="image/png" url="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5966569c099c01d2441b81e2/1592415549799-CTNS3E22HM0DTKY4RSAE/Real+Vibes+Only+2.png?format=1500w" medium="image" isDefault="true" width="800" height="800"><media:title type="plain">Toxic Positivity: When Being Positive Can Be Bad (and what to do instead)</media:title></media:content></item></channel></rss>