Consider the following:

~Extraversion and Introversion are not about friendliness, popularity, or public speaking savvy. Those attributes are common but inaccurate measures of these two personality preferences.

~The preference we each have for Extraversion or Introversion is actually an indication of what naturally energizes us.

~Extraverts are typically energized externally by action and “doing”. Introverts are actually energized internally by thoughts, ideas, and what often appears as simply “being”.

~So, when an Extravert has had a long day, it’s helpful for them to get moving, to get out and about, and to interact with people. Extraverts get their batteries recharged with lots of people and activity…often, the more the better! The thought of being alone to a tired Extravert is usually unappealing and feels even more draining.

~When an Introvert needs to recover from a long day, it’s helpful for them to retreat. It could be reading, spending some time alone, or engaging in any gentle pastime they enjoy. Immersing themselves in a bit of solitude is sure to recharge an Introverts’ battery. To a tired introvert, the thought of mingling in a crowd will most likely sound undesirable and exhausting!

~The good news is that there isn’t a right or wrong, better or worse, desirable or undesirable aspect to our individual preference for Extraversion or Introversion. Just like you were born left- or right-handed, you were born with a tendency to be either an Extravert or an Introvert.

What matters is that you know your preference and manage your energy accordingly. For any of us to enjoy life and achieve what matters, we need to be vibrant, balanced, and energized. So give it some thought, determine your preference, and then nurture your unique style.

Much success,

Julie

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If you’re like many people, you may have passed on resolutions altogether. Or perhaps you set out with great enthusiasm but already feel your motivation waning. Regardless of your specific situation, consider a new way. A better way. An easier and more effective way.

Here are some new perspectives on ‘resolutions’ and on making them happen:

~What if instead of hard and fast resolutions or goals you set priorities or intentions? A bit more relaxed, equally compelling.

~What if instead of pushing yourself or striving to accomplish your priorities or intentions, you lean into them? Gently, consistently, effectively.

~What if instead of only acknowledging big segments of progress, you measure yourself based on any reasonable effort you make toward those things that matter most?

~What if instead of feeling down because you haven’t taken enough action or worse yet, listening to your inner critic’s belittling comments, you celebrate any forward progress?

~What if  instead of abandoning your priorities or intentions at the first sign of slippage, you reconsider and refine your approach and then allow yourself a second chance? Or a third, fourth…

This isn’t simply about semantics or wordplay. This is about reframing what you really want to achieve in a way that is positive, actionable, and most importantly, sustainable.

It’s still early in the year; you have time to shift your perspective. After all, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I don’t know about you, but I’m always open to any new framework that increases the ease in my life and yields the quality results I most want.

Happy New Year,

Julie

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Like most of my favorite things in life, this ritual is simple and impactful. You’ll need something to write on, something to write with, and a block of quiet time. If you have those 3 things you are good to go.

Now think back over the past year and the many things that occurred. I find it helpful to do this with each of the following aspects of life:

*Personal Wellness* ~ It all starts with you. What did you do this past year to improve your well-being? Did you invest in yourself physically, mentally, or emotionally in some positive ways?

*Creativity* ~ We all have a creative nature. Did you indulge your creativity in 2011? Creativity is actually quite diverse, so think in conventional and unconventional terms!

*Spiritually* ~ You don’t have to be ‘religious’ to anchor yourself in your spirituality. I personally love the saying, “We’re not human beings having a spiritual experience, we’re spiritual beings having a human experience.” Did you nurture and strengthen your spiritual self in 2011?

*Leisure* ~ I hope you had lots of fun and plenty of downtime in 2011! How did you spend your leisure time this past year? Did you try a new activity, enjoy a special destination, or regularly immerse yourself in a long-term favorite past-time?

*Right Relationships* ~ As the year comes to a close, did you spend quality time with those that matter most? Did you enter into any new, positive relationships? Perhaps, you made the healthy choice to move away from a relationship that wasn’t affirming?

*Livelihood* ~ Since most of us need to generate an income, it’s priceless when doing so is meaningful and soul-satisfying. We all have a ‘best fit’ career match. Did you take steps to identify and pursue your ideal career match in 2011? Or did you appreciate the fact that you’re already blessed with a career that fully aligns with who you truly are?

As you reflect on each facet of your life in 2011, jot down key words, actions, and gaps. Be gentle. This isn’t about judging yourself harshly for having fallen short. Rather, use it as an opportunity to give yourself credit for any and all positive steps. Even being aware that we made minimal or no progress in a given area (but desire to) can be useful.

Now you have a fairly holistic review of 2011. At the same time, you have opened your mind to some opportunities for 2012. Wherever you see or feel a gap, you have an opportunity. You’ll probably want to set aside another block of time to note some intentions for 2012 in each area. It should be rather easy to review each lifestyle aspect again and think about where you want to step it up in 2012.

Studies show that written goals are significantly more likely to be accomplished than unwritten goals. You’re worth the extra effort to put your 2012 intentions in writing and once you do, you’ll be ready for all that 2012 holds for you.

Sending you warm greetings of the season and wishes for an even better 2012,

Julie

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Achieving success is not about having exceptional courage. Or a ton of self-esteem. It’s not about having all the answers and you don’t need the approval of others. Rarely is a college degree required and you don’t have to be a top-notch ‘expert’. It’s not about being savvy with the latest and greatest technology gizmo or having a detailed, written plan. It’s not about who you know or how big of a cash cushion you have stashed. And it’s certainly not about doing things “perfectly” or never backsliding. While all of these factors are nice and helpful on the road to success, they aren’t what matters most.

Actually what matters most, is that you start! Whether it’s a career transition, a wellness program, a business launch, a home improvement project, a lifestyle overhaul, or a creative endeavor — you must start. Whether you make a phone call, research your options, save some money, seek advice, jot a few notes, or buy supplies — you must take action.

Small steps are suggested; big leaps can be scary. It’s okay to make mistakes, back-track, and circle around — it’s all part of the process. Forget rigid deadlines, avoid harsh judgments, and limit negative self-talk. If your goal is important, show yourself some grace and allow for setbacks. Because, if you truly intend to succeed at anything in life what matters most is that you simply start.

All the best,

Julie

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Let’s start with the Dreamers. They tend to always have one foot in the future and love to talk about all the possibilities on the near and distant horizons. They seem to have their antenna up and readily gather new information and ideas. Dreamers usually have a strong creative streak, especially with problem-solving and are excellent at providing innovative solutions. Often their solutions may seem unconventional or leading-edge, but are viable all the same. Dreamers are content to let their minds wander all over the place, sometimes for hours on end. Mention words like brainstorm, think-tank, and collaboration and their eyes light up!

Then we have the Do-ers. Do-ers reside fully in the here and now, and usually exhibit exceptional common sense. The Do-ers are the get it done, get it done now, and get it done right folks. Wow. They tackle volumes of work, bring order to chaos, and never miss a beat. They can deliver on budget and on time, every time. Those I call Do-ers can marshal people, materials, and systems and make it look incredibly easy. Compliment them for being practical, productive, and grounded and their eyes light up!

In your career, business, or life it’s helpful to understand whether you’re a Dream or a Do-er. Both are equally positive, but they are different. It’s especially beneficial to have a blend of Dreamers and Do-ers in an organization or even a family — think of it as balancing the scales or having all the bases covered.

On the individual level, it’s important to be aware of which way you lean.  If you’re a Dreamer, it’s important to make sure you come down out of the clouds and actually implement your ideas and plans! If you’re more of a Do-er, it’s very helpful to look up from time to time, enjoy the scenery, and consider some broader options.

For me, getting to know people beyond the surface is clearly one of the most fascinating aspects of my career and of my life. Whether it’s a Dreamer or a Do-er, I’m inspired and they’ve got my full attention and support.

All the best,

Julie

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But what if the way to more peace, ease, and flow in our lives was a simple little process? Note, I said “simple” not “easy”. For now, let’s just focus on the process. What if, as our days unfolded, we took the following few steps:

1. We slowed down enough to notice what we’re feeling in any given moment.

2. We started to notice whether, in the current moment, we’re feeling good, content, on-track, energized. Or not.

3. When the answer is YES, I’m feeling light, positive, or engaged then we know we are in some way living our truth. Whatever circumstance is generating this upbeat momentum or internal sense of peace is our TRUE answer.

4. If the answer is NO, I’m feeling tired, stressed, burdened or anxious then we know we are off-track and are not living our truth. The situation or relationship or discussion or whatever it is that is causing this drain is FALSE for us in one way or another.

This focus on our feelings, this concept of what is TRUE or FALSE for me, is most likely a new way of thinking. The idea of actually slowing down is also probably a new concept!

If you look around and begin to pay attention, you’ll probably realize that ’slowing down’ is not the norm. Focusing on yourself may be regarded by many as selfish. Acknowledging your feelings isn’t frequently encouraged.

But let me ask you…does just the thought of slowing down and not pushing so hard generate a sense of relief? Does the idea of focusing on yourself, your needs, your dreams — no matter how briefly — stir a sense of freedom? Does noticing and accepting your TRUE feelings about your situation, even to yourself, seem like a breath of fresh air?

As alike as we may seem, we are each unique. What rings TRUE for one of us, does not for the next. What feels FALSE to some, may seem fine for others. What matters, if you want to live with more clarity, more calm, and more fulfillment is knowing what is TRUE for you.

All the best,

Julie

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I read this somewhere recently and it spoke to me so much that I felt compelled to write it down and keep it. Every few days, I find that I pick it up from my desk, read it, and think about it. Today, I thought I would share it with you. Maybe it will speak to you as well.

It can be hard to be true to yourself. There is a lot of external pressure to conform, to fit in, to be like everyone else. Often we’re told, directly or indirectly, that it’s selfish or unacceptable to focus on ourselves, follow our dreams, or to even BE ourselves. It seems that many people prefer conformity. I suppose life appears to be more comfortable and manageable if we’re all somewhat alike. Yet, doesn’t that actually limit us? Doesn’t it mask who we really are and all that we have to offer? Isn’t life more interesting because of our vast diversity?

When we find ourselves stressed out, burnt out, and worn down it’s often because we are engaged in careers, relationships, or even past-times that don’t reflect who we truly are. The reason it’s so hard to put ourselves into these situations repeatedly is because they don’t resonate with us. These ‘disconnect’ situations would be the perfect time to reconsider and, perhaps, “take ourselves out of it.”

Wouldn’t life go better and flow better if we began to thoughtfully make choices based on the sentiment…above all be true to yourself and if you cannot put your heart into it, take yourself out of it…?

Pause for a moment and consider what’s going well in your life. My guess is that in each case your heart is open and into those activities, people, situations. On the other hand, stop and think about what generates stress, unease, and discomfort in your life. Most likely the drain is because, if you’re completely honest, there isn’t a match…your heart isn’t really aligned.

We’re frequently reminded that life is short, things can change suddenly, and there are no guarantees. Since this is true for each of us, perhaps it’s helpful to remind yourself from time to time that the best thing you can do for yourself and for others is to be you. Authentically. Consistently. Generously you.

All the best,

Julie

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So, in what ways might you give yourself permission? Here are some examples that might spark a familiar knowing in you:

1. Permission to say ‘no’. Well, why not start with a tough one?! Saying ‘no’ is very hard for many of us but it is one of the healthiest and most important things we can do. For ourselves. For those we care about. When we say ‘no’, we free up time and energy for the more important ‘yes’ aspects of our lives.

2. Permission to invest in ourselves. This could be an investment of time, money, or effort. This could be an investment in education, a massage, a day off, or a cleaning person. This could be whatever you need it to be. When we slow down long enough to consider our needs, ideas for investing in ourselves surface. Investing in ourselves typically yields many positive returns for everyone in our circle of influence.

3. Permission to trust ourselves. You have your answers. I know this because we each have an internal ‘GPS’ system that guides us along the way. You know what resonates deeply within you and what doesn’t. You know what energizes you and what doesn’t. You know when you’re feeling tuned in, tapped in, and turned on. And when you’re not. The key is to begin to trust yourself.

4. Permission to explore options. You probably do this when planning a vacation or buying a car so why not do it across the board? With your career options? With your juicy creative idea? With anything in your life that could use an upgrade or enhancement? You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by simply exploring your options.

5. Permission to be yourself. Think about it. Aren’t the most interesting (and fulfilled) people those who have followed their unique path? Don’t you find it refreshing to talk with or read about someone who lives what may be considered an unconventional life or who has taken the road less traveled? There is nothing more purposeful or natural than dropping the ’should’s’ and living in full out authenticity.

The options for granting ourselves permission are endless. Permission to try, permission to fail, permission to learn, grow, change, bust out, start over, try again. The fastest way out of wherever you are is to grant yourself permission . . . whatever that may look like for you.

Much success,

Julie

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However, since hearing about, reading about, and watching Hunter for the past few weeks many inspirations have surfaced that are worth sharing. It’s not unusual for top athletes to inspire their fans in one way or another. The interesting thing about Hunter is that he appears to live and breathe multiple success-related attributes. So based on recent media coverage and from the view of a fan, here are some observations about Hunter that we can all learn from…

Authenticity ~ There’s no better word for it; Hunter is authentic.  In his brief two weeks as a Phillie he’s been described as ‘unorthodox’, ‘quirky’, ‘old-fashioned’, ‘a breath of fresh air’ and ‘different’. By some observations, he bats funny, runs oddly, and can look a bit spastic playing defense on the field. Yet, those speaking of him do so with admiration and respect. Many seem truly inspired by his unconventional, yet effective style. According to Hunter, he’s ‘tried playing like everyone else, but it just didn’t work’ so he went back to his way with excellent results. There’s a vote for authenticity.

Energy ~ A word frequently associated with Hunter. He reportedly energizes those in the clubhouse, the dugout, and the fans in the right field seating section. There’s a tangible energy about him that’s upbeat and visible.  Positive energy is always a good thing and it makes those who have it a delight to work with, play with, or live with.

Passion ~ This is key to long-term success for anyone and Hunter is a strong role model when it comes to passion. Apparently he arrives earlier than necessary for games, gives his all during batting practice, and has fun in the process.  As a single guy he recently said, “I live baseball. It’s the first thing I think about in the morning and the last thing I think about at night.”  That’s passion and is a surefire driver for achievement in any area of life.

Purpose ~ A World Series win is his purpose. He says it often and he says it like he means it. His vision is clear, the mark has been set, and he plays every game as if the world championship depends on his contributions to the team that day. Of course it will take the entire team to go the whole way, and Hunter sounds determined to contribute in every way he can. He’s living his purpose wholeheartedly.

Personal Development ~ He enjoys learning, expanding, and strengthening his approach. He reads a lot, mostly non-fiction, and his favorite book is the Napoleon Hill classic “Think and Grow Rich” — which he has read 3 times. If you read the book, you know it’s not actually all about money. It’s about a winning attitude. Oh, and he really enjoys chess because it’s about problem-solving and mental agility. Wow, that’s an example of true commitment to personal development.

Humility ~ With all of these exceptional attributes stirring in the press about Hunter, he seems to take it pretty much in stride. It’s as if he simply goes about his business being Hunter Pence, new Phillie fan favorite, and giving his all day after day. He’s being himself and it’s paying off. He seems to be having the time of his life and teammates, coaches, staff, the media, and fans are singing his praises.

You don’t have to be a superstar or a rock star to embrace and live any of these success factors. Although Hunter Pence and others in the limelight can be really good role models, any of us can choose to develop these winning attributes. The benefits are many, for ourselves and for our family, friends, and clients.

Much success,

Julie

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