Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
Debbie Peterson of Getting to Clarity
Do you think that to be successful and get ahead in business, you have to trade what’s most important to achieve it? Not so! Debbie Peterson, CSP wants to help you discover how to create MORE Success in your Leadership with LESS sacrifice in your Life. If you want a podcast that helps you manage, lead, and make a bigger IMPACT, but without leaving behind the rest of your life, tune in and hear Debbie and her guests share their tips, tools, and techniques to do just that.
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How to Be a Better Mentor at Work When You’re Busy
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
03/31/23 • 7 min
Being a mentor at work is a rewarding experience that not only helps others but also allows you to develop your own leadership skills. However, being a good mentor requires time and effort, which can be challenging when you have a busy schedule. In this episode, we will provide tips and strategies for being a better mentor at work, even when you are busy.
Here are seven tips to help you become a better mentor at work, yep, even when you’re busy.
1. Prioritize your time. As a busy mentor, it's essential to prioritize your time and be clear about what you can offer. Make a list of the areas where you can provide the most value, such as specific skills or experiences, and focus your mentorship efforts on these areas. This will help you to be more effective and efficient in your mentorship role.
2. Set clear expectations. When you agree to mentor someone, it's important to set clear expectations from the beginning. This includes the frequency and duration of your meetings, the goals and objectives of the mentoring relationship, and any other guidelines or ground rules that you feel are important. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and make the most of your time together.
3. Be present and attentive. When you do have the opportunity to meet with your mentee, it's important to be present and attentive. This means putting away your phone, minimizing distractions, and actively listening to what your mentee has to say. Show you care about their progress and development by asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback.
4. Provide specific feedback. When giving feedback, it's essential to be specific and actionable. Instead of just saying, "you need to improve your communication skills,” provide concrete examples and suggestions for improvement. This will help your mentee understand exactly what they need to do to improve and progress towards their goals.
5. Share your own experiences. One of the most valuable things you can offer as a mentor is your experiences and lessons learned. Share stories and examples from your own career that relate to your mentee's situation, and provide insights and advice based on your own successes and failures. This can help your mentee to avoid common pitfalls and make more informed decisions.
6. Be flexible and adaptable. Finally, it's important to be flexible and adaptable as a mentor, especially when you have a busy schedule. If you need to reschedule a meeting, be sure to communicate clearly and offer alternative times. If your mentee is struggling with a particular issue, be open to adjusting your approach and providing additional support.
7. Ask good questions. Mentoring isn’t about providing the answers. It’s about paying attention and asking the questions that will allow your mentee to find their own answers and move forward from there. Ask questions that generate short-term and long-term thinking from your mentee. You can ask about goals, strengths, weaknesses, challenges, interests, and passions.
Being a mentor at work is more than just a role or a responsibility; it's an opportunity to make a positive impact on someone's life and career. By being a better mentor, you can help your mentee achieve their goals, develop new skills, and overcome challenges. At the same time, you can also improve your own leadership and coaching abilities and experience the satisfaction that comes with helping someone else succeed.
Until the next time, here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
P.S. If you’d like to bring great mentoring programming to your organization, check out my keynote, The Secret to Exceptional Mentorship: How to Master the Mindset that Connects People, Passion, and Peak Performance, at https://www.debbiepetersonspeaks.com/
Here are seven tips to help you become a better mentor at work, yep, even when you’re busy.
1. Prioritize your time. As a busy mentor, it's essential to prioritize your time and be clear about what you can offer. Make a list of the areas where you can provide the most value, such as specific skills or experiences, and focus your mentorship efforts on these areas. This will help you to be more effective and efficient in your mentorship role.
2. Set clear expectations. When you agree to mentor someone, it's important to set clear expectations from the beginning. This includes the frequency and duration of your meetings, the goals and objectives of the mentoring relationship, and any other guidelines or ground rules that you feel are important. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and make the most of your time together.
3. Be present and attentive. When you do have the opportunity to meet with your mentee, it's important to be present and attentive. This means putting away your phone, minimizing distractions, and actively listening to what your mentee has to say. Show you care about their progress and development by asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback.
4. Provide specific feedback. When giving feedback, it's essential to be specific and actionable. Instead of just saying, "you need to improve your communication skills,” provide concrete examples and suggestions for improvement. This will help your mentee understand exactly what they need to do to improve and progress towards their goals.
5. Share your own experiences. One of the most valuable things you can offer as a mentor is your experiences and lessons learned. Share stories and examples from your own career that relate to your mentee's situation, and provide insights and advice based on your own successes and failures. This can help your mentee to avoid common pitfalls and make more informed decisions.
6. Be flexible and adaptable. Finally, it's important to be flexible and adaptable as a mentor, especially when you have a busy schedule. If you need to reschedule a meeting, be sure to communicate clearly and offer alternative times. If your mentee is struggling with a particular issue, be open to adjusting your approach and providing additional support.
7. Ask good questions. Mentoring isn’t about providing the answers. It’s about paying attention and asking the questions that will allow your mentee to find their own answers and move forward from there. Ask questions that generate short-term and long-term thinking from your mentee. You can ask about goals, strengths, weaknesses, challenges, interests, and passions.
Being a mentor at work is more than just a role or a responsibility; it's an opportunity to make a positive impact on someone's life and career. By being a better mentor, you can help your mentee achieve their goals, develop new skills, and overcome challenges. At the same time, you can also improve your own leadership and coaching abilities and experience the satisfaction that comes with helping someone else succeed.
Until the next time, here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
P.S. If you’d like to bring great mentoring programming to your organization, check out my keynote, The Secret to Exceptional Mentorship: How to Master the Mindset that Connects People, Passion, and Peak Performance, at https://www.debbiepetersonspeaks.com/
Leading from Within: The Art of Authentic Leadership for Emerging Leaders
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
04/14/23 • 9 min
Leadership is an art that can be learned and practiced by anyone who aspires to make a difference in their organization, their community, or the world. But what does it mean to lead authentically? I’ve been spending a lot of time here at the intersection of authenticity and leadership. At its essence, authentic leadership is about leading from within, from a place of deep self-awareness, and aligning your actions with your values and purpose.
Authentic leaders inspire and empower others to achieve their full potential, foster trust and collaboration, and create meaningful change in their organizations and communities.
Why Authentic Leadership Matters
In today's complex and rapidly changing world, we need leaders who can navigate uncertainty, inspire others, and build sustainable organizations and communities. Authentic leaders are more effective in achieving these goals because they have a clear sense of who they are, what they stand for, and what they want to accomplish. Authentic leaders are also more resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks, as they draw on their inner strength and values to guide their decisions and actions.
How to Learn Authentic Leadership
Becoming an authentic leader requires a lifelong journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Here are some key steps you can take to develop your authentic leadership skills:
Stick around because, in the coming weeks; we are going to break each of these steps down so you have the tips, tools, and techniques you need to develop your authentic leadership presence and make the impact you were born to make!
Authentic leaders inspire and empower others to achieve their full potential, foster trust and collaboration, and create meaningful change in their organizations and communities.
Why Authentic Leadership Matters
In today's complex and rapidly changing world, we need leaders who can navigate uncertainty, inspire others, and build sustainable organizations and communities. Authentic leaders are more effective in achieving these goals because they have a clear sense of who they are, what they stand for, and what they want to accomplish. Authentic leaders are also more resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks, as they draw on their inner strength and values to guide their decisions and actions.
How to Learn Authentic Leadership
Becoming an authentic leader requires a lifelong journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Here are some key steps you can take to develop your authentic leadership skills:
- Cultivate Self-Awareness: Start by reflecting on your values, strengths, and weaknesses. Get feedback from others, and seek out opportunities to learn and grow.
- Define Your Purpose: What drives you? What do you want to accomplish? Clarifying your purpose will help you stay focused and motivated in your leadership journey.
- Build Trust: Trust is the foundation of authentic leadership. Be honest, transparent, and reliable in your interactions with others.
- Listen and Empathize: Effective leaders listen to and understand the perspectives of others. Develop your active listening and empathy skills to build stronger relationships and foster collaboration.
- Communicate with Clarity and Impact: Authentic leaders communicate their vision and values with clarity and impact. Develop your public speaking, writing, and storytelling skills to inspire and motivate others.
- Practice Continuous Learning: Authentic leaders are lifelong learners. Stay curious, seek out new experiences and challenges, and reflect on your successes and failures to keep growing and improving.
Stick around because, in the coming weeks; we are going to break each of these steps down so you have the tips, tools, and techniques you need to develop your authentic leadership presence and make the impact you were born to make!
Why Self-Awareness in Leadership is Essential for Success (and how to “do it”)
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
04/21/23 • 11 min
What is self-awareness in leadership?
Self-awareness is essential for leadership success because it helps leaders to recognize and understand their emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and limitations. This awareness enables you as a leader to make better decisions, build stronger relationships, and inspire others along the way. This post will explore the importance of self-awareness in leadership, define it in a leadership context, provide examples, and suggest tips to develop self-awareness for current or aspiring leaders.
So, why is self-awareness important in leadership?
Self-awareness isn’t just important; it’s crucial for leadership success because it allows leaders to fully understand themselves and their impact on others. When leaders are self-aware, they can identify their strengths and weaknesses, acknowledge their blind spots, and make necessary adjustments to become better leaders. In other words, you realize you don’t know what you don’t know, but you continue to seek the answers that are inside of you. Self-awareness also enables leaders to recognize their emotions and how they affect their decision-making and interactions with others. Leaders who are self-aware don’t get hi-jacked by their emotions and can respond to challenging situations in a constructive way rather than reacting impulsively.
What does self-awareness look like in leadership?
In a leadership context, self-awareness looks like a leader who is introspective, humble, and open-minded. A self-aware leader is willing to ask for feedback, listen to others' perspectives, and admit their mistakes. They have a deep understanding of their values, priorities, and goals, and they align their actions with them. A self-aware leader also recognizes their impact on others and seeks to build positive relationships based on trust, respect, and empathy.
But where is the starting place on this journey to becoming more self-aware?
Understanding the conscious and unconscious minds is crucial in developing effective leaders. The conscious mind is responsible for our awareness, thinking, reasoning, and decision-making. In contrast, the unconscious mind, where the true power of thought resides, influences our behavior and decision-making without us realizing it. Leaders who understand the roles of both minds can make intentional decisions to guide their departments and teams. However, it is especially crucial for leaders to be aware of their unconscious mind because this is where their biases, beliefs, and habits that may be limiting their potential reside.
Let’s talk about how to develop more self-awareness as a leader. Check out the tips below.
Take some time to elicit your core values. To elicit your core values as a leader, it is important to take time to reflect on what is truly important to you. One way to do this is to ask yourself what motivates you, what brings you joy and fulfillment, and what you would be willing to stand up for. Consider the qualities and characteristics that you admire in others and strive to embody in your own leadership style. Additionally, you can reflect on past experiences where you felt most fulfilled and aligned with your values. Another helpful exercise is to make a list of values that resonate with you, and then narrow them down to the top five or so that are most important to you. By eliciting your core values as a leader, you can make more intentional decisions, build stronger relationships, and inspire others with a sense of purpose and direction.
Start the process of understanding your emotions. To be an effective leader, it is critical to understand and manage your emotions. Reflect on how you feel and why, and identify triggers that evoke strong emotions. By understanding and managing emotions, leaders can make necessary adjustments and lead from a place of clarity and empathy. Mindfulness, journaling, seeking feedback, and paying attention to physical sensations and thoughts can aid in this process.
Be willing to explore your strengths and weaknesses. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses as a leader requires a combination of self-reflection, feedback from others, and a willingness to learn and grow. You can conduct a self-assessment, seek feedback from others you trust, take leadership assessments, and observe other leaders as well. By being honest with yourself and open to feedback, you can identify areas for improvement and become a more effective leader.
Discover your limitations. Our thoughts can guide us to discover our limitations by revealing the beliefs and assumptions that we hold about our...
Self-awareness is essential for leadership success because it helps leaders to recognize and understand their emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and limitations. This awareness enables you as a leader to make better decisions, build stronger relationships, and inspire others along the way. This post will explore the importance of self-awareness in leadership, define it in a leadership context, provide examples, and suggest tips to develop self-awareness for current or aspiring leaders.
So, why is self-awareness important in leadership?
Self-awareness isn’t just important; it’s crucial for leadership success because it allows leaders to fully understand themselves and their impact on others. When leaders are self-aware, they can identify their strengths and weaknesses, acknowledge their blind spots, and make necessary adjustments to become better leaders. In other words, you realize you don’t know what you don’t know, but you continue to seek the answers that are inside of you. Self-awareness also enables leaders to recognize their emotions and how they affect their decision-making and interactions with others. Leaders who are self-aware don’t get hi-jacked by their emotions and can respond to challenging situations in a constructive way rather than reacting impulsively.
What does self-awareness look like in leadership?
In a leadership context, self-awareness looks like a leader who is introspective, humble, and open-minded. A self-aware leader is willing to ask for feedback, listen to others' perspectives, and admit their mistakes. They have a deep understanding of their values, priorities, and goals, and they align their actions with them. A self-aware leader also recognizes their impact on others and seeks to build positive relationships based on trust, respect, and empathy.
But where is the starting place on this journey to becoming more self-aware?
Understanding the conscious and unconscious minds is crucial in developing effective leaders. The conscious mind is responsible for our awareness, thinking, reasoning, and decision-making. In contrast, the unconscious mind, where the true power of thought resides, influences our behavior and decision-making without us realizing it. Leaders who understand the roles of both minds can make intentional decisions to guide their departments and teams. However, it is especially crucial for leaders to be aware of their unconscious mind because this is where their biases, beliefs, and habits that may be limiting their potential reside.
Let’s talk about how to develop more self-awareness as a leader. Check out the tips below.
Take some time to elicit your core values. To elicit your core values as a leader, it is important to take time to reflect on what is truly important to you. One way to do this is to ask yourself what motivates you, what brings you joy and fulfillment, and what you would be willing to stand up for. Consider the qualities and characteristics that you admire in others and strive to embody in your own leadership style. Additionally, you can reflect on past experiences where you felt most fulfilled and aligned with your values. Another helpful exercise is to make a list of values that resonate with you, and then narrow them down to the top five or so that are most important to you. By eliciting your core values as a leader, you can make more intentional decisions, build stronger relationships, and inspire others with a sense of purpose and direction.
Start the process of understanding your emotions. To be an effective leader, it is critical to understand and manage your emotions. Reflect on how you feel and why, and identify triggers that evoke strong emotions. By understanding and managing emotions, leaders can make necessary adjustments and lead from a place of clarity and empathy. Mindfulness, journaling, seeking feedback, and paying attention to physical sensations and thoughts can aid in this process.
Be willing to explore your strengths and weaknesses. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses as a leader requires a combination of self-reflection, feedback from others, and a willingness to learn and grow. You can conduct a self-assessment, seek feedback from others you trust, take leadership assessments, and observe other leaders as well. By being honest with yourself and open to feedback, you can identify areas for improvement and become a more effective leader.
Discover your limitations. Our thoughts can guide us to discover our limitations by revealing the beliefs and assumptions that we hold about our...
Why Self-Care is Important For YOUR Mental Health as a Leader in Business
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
03/03/23 • 9 min
As a leader, it's essential to prioritize self-care for good mental health, and there are numerous benefits to making it a priority. For one, self-care helps reduce the stress and anxiety that come with leadership responsibilities. If you neglect self-care, it can lead to burnout and make it harder to perform your job effectively. But when you take care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to handle the pressure. It’s your key to resiliency!
And it’s not just about bouncing back; it’s the key to keeping (or maybe improving) your mood and productivity. Sometimes with all that is going on, we can’t help but turn into a bit of a Negative Nellie (my apologies to anyone named Nellie!). By taking care of yourself, you get to feel the benefits of being more energized and focused. Not to mention it can bring more joy to your day and work, which is especially needed when things get tough, as they are bound to.
One of the biggest reasons I advocate for this (besides you choosing you!) is that by doing this for you, you are also walking the talk and setting a positive example for your team. As a leader, you're an example for your crew, and showing them that self-care is important can be very powerful. Think of the ripple effects of this. Does anyone want a happier and healthier workplace? Positive culture? Yeah, that.
Additionally, self-care can help prevent mental health issues, especially depression, and anxiety related to work. In the 2022 State of Workforce Mental Health published by Lyra, nearly a third of workers surveyed said their mental health has declined over the past year. Work-related stress came in right behind COVID as one of the top issues that affected mental health. There is no more important time than now to create this critical habit for yourself.
It's not just about work-related benefits either; taking care of yourself can lead to a more fulfilling life overall. You see things through a different lens when you prioritize yourself. Self-care is key to balancing your work and personal life better too.
Now let’s make it easier, shall we? Here are some simple ideas to fit self-care in as a busy leader.
Remember, self-care is an ongoing process, and it's essential to make it a part of your routine. By incorporating these simple and easy tactics into your daily life, you can prioritize your well-being and be a more effective and resilient leader.
And it’s not just about bouncing back; it’s the key to keeping (or maybe improving) your mood and productivity. Sometimes with all that is going on, we can’t help but turn into a bit of a Negative Nellie (my apologies to anyone named Nellie!). By taking care of yourself, you get to feel the benefits of being more energized and focused. Not to mention it can bring more joy to your day and work, which is especially needed when things get tough, as they are bound to.
One of the biggest reasons I advocate for this (besides you choosing you!) is that by doing this for you, you are also walking the talk and setting a positive example for your team. As a leader, you're an example for your crew, and showing them that self-care is important can be very powerful. Think of the ripple effects of this. Does anyone want a happier and healthier workplace? Positive culture? Yeah, that.
Additionally, self-care can help prevent mental health issues, especially depression, and anxiety related to work. In the 2022 State of Workforce Mental Health published by Lyra, nearly a third of workers surveyed said their mental health has declined over the past year. Work-related stress came in right behind COVID as one of the top issues that affected mental health. There is no more important time than now to create this critical habit for yourself.
It's not just about work-related benefits either; taking care of yourself can lead to a more fulfilling life overall. You see things through a different lens when you prioritize yourself. Self-care is key to balancing your work and personal life better too.
Now let’s make it easier, shall we? Here are some simple ideas to fit self-care in as a busy leader.
- Take breaks: Take frequent short breaks throughout the day, even just a few minutes, to recharge and refresh your mind. Step outside, take a walk, or meditate to clear your mind and reduce stress.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for good mental health, and leaders should aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night. If possible, create a relaxing bedtime routine that helps you wind down and get a good night's sleep.
- Stay active: Exercise is an effective way to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels. Find physical activities you enjoy, such as walking, running, yoga, or swimming, and make time for them regularly.
- Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help you stay present and focused. Even just a few minutes of mindfulness practice each day can improve your overall well-being.
- Seek support: Talking to someone about your challenges and concerns can be a valuable form of self-care. Consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or colleague, or seek support from a mental health professional if needed.
- Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life, and prioritize downtime to recharge. Turn off notifications and avoid checking emails after work hours to create a more balanced lifestyle.
Remember, self-care is an ongoing process, and it's essential to make it a part of your routine. By incorporating these simple and easy tactics into your daily life, you can prioritize your well-being and be a more effective and resilient leader.
How to Develop a Learning Mindset and Supercharge Your Leadership Success
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
07/14/23 • 8 min
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of becoming an exceptional leader? Look no further than this key strategy to supercharging your leadership success! Developing a learning mindset isn't just a necessary skill —it's a game-changer for accelerating your leadership success. In this article, we will delve into the key strategies and mindsets that can help you develop a learning mindset – because it’s not that you’re born with it or not, you learn this key trait.
First, though, why a learning mindset?
A learning mindset is crucial for leadership success because it helps you to stay adaptable. You are more likely to adjust and change in new circumstances and situations instead of getting stuck. A learning mindset fosters innovation and encourages you to think out of the box and generate new ideas, solutions, and approaches. It is the key to your personal and professional growth! And, just think of how this helps to form a new way forward full of potential for yourself, your teams, and the organization.
So what is a Learning Mindset, exactly?
It is when you have an attitude that is open and receptive when it comes to seeking new knowledge, embracing feedback, and adapting to circumstances. You are always seeking more and expanding your knowledge and skills, and you are willing to challenge assumptions – not just go with the flow.
Now, I’m sure you want to know HOW to develop this mindset, don’t you? Great! Here are 6 tips to do just that.
Embrace CuriosityCuriosity is the secret sauce that ignites your passion for lifelong learning. It's the spark that fuels innovation, drives exploration, and propels you to seek knowledge beyond the ordinary. As a leader, nurturing your curiosity empowers you to seek more knowledge, especially in challenging situations.
Embrace FailureFailure is not the end; it's a launchpad for personal and professional growth. To truly develop a learning mindset, you must be willing to embrace failure as the invaluable teacher it can be. Rather than fearing missteps, view them as stepping stones on the way forward. Analyze your failures, extract the lessons they offer, and use that newfound wisdom to refine your strategies to make a different choice the next time.
Foster a Growth MindsetImagine a mindset where you believe that your abilities and intelligence can flourish through dedication and hard work. That's the power of a growth mindset. Cultivate self-awareness and challenge those self-limiting beliefs. Remember, success isn't predetermined; it's a result of your continuous effort and belief in your own potential.
Emphasize Lifelong LearningLeadership success isn't a destination; it's an ever-evolving journey. To stay at the forefront, you must make lifelong learning a non-negotiable priority. Set aside dedicated time for personal and professional development. Attend industry conferences, engage in workshops, and tap into the wealth of knowledge shared through webinars. Remember, by investing in yourself, you are investing in your future leadership success.
Seek Diverse Perspectives: Expand Your HorizonsTo truly develop a well-rounded learning mindset, you must actively seek out diverse perspectives. Engage in meaningful conversations with individuals from different backgrounds, industries, and cultures. Embrace different viewpoints and be open to challenging your own assumptions.
Reflect and Iterate: Learn from Every ExperienceReflection is the cornerstone of personal growth and learning. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, both successes and setbacks. Dive deep into your actions, decisions, and outcomes. What worked exceptionally well? What could have been done differently? Learn from every experience, iterate, and continuously strive to become a better leader.
By developing a learning mindset, you open the door to your own potential and the exceptional leader you can be. Embrace the journey, seize every opportunity to learn, and witness the transformation in yourself and your organization.
The choice is yours...choose you and your potential
Here’s wishing you the Clarity (and learning mindset) you deserve!
First, though, why a learning mindset?
A learning mindset is crucial for leadership success because it helps you to stay adaptable. You are more likely to adjust and change in new circumstances and situations instead of getting stuck. A learning mindset fosters innovation and encourages you to think out of the box and generate new ideas, solutions, and approaches. It is the key to your personal and professional growth! And, just think of how this helps to form a new way forward full of potential for yourself, your teams, and the organization.
So what is a Learning Mindset, exactly?
It is when you have an attitude that is open and receptive when it comes to seeking new knowledge, embracing feedback, and adapting to circumstances. You are always seeking more and expanding your knowledge and skills, and you are willing to challenge assumptions – not just go with the flow.
Now, I’m sure you want to know HOW to develop this mindset, don’t you? Great! Here are 6 tips to do just that.
Embrace CuriosityCuriosity is the secret sauce that ignites your passion for lifelong learning. It's the spark that fuels innovation, drives exploration, and propels you to seek knowledge beyond the ordinary. As a leader, nurturing your curiosity empowers you to seek more knowledge, especially in challenging situations.
Embrace FailureFailure is not the end; it's a launchpad for personal and professional growth. To truly develop a learning mindset, you must be willing to embrace failure as the invaluable teacher it can be. Rather than fearing missteps, view them as stepping stones on the way forward. Analyze your failures, extract the lessons they offer, and use that newfound wisdom to refine your strategies to make a different choice the next time.
Foster a Growth MindsetImagine a mindset where you believe that your abilities and intelligence can flourish through dedication and hard work. That's the power of a growth mindset. Cultivate self-awareness and challenge those self-limiting beliefs. Remember, success isn't predetermined; it's a result of your continuous effort and belief in your own potential.
Emphasize Lifelong LearningLeadership success isn't a destination; it's an ever-evolving journey. To stay at the forefront, you must make lifelong learning a non-negotiable priority. Set aside dedicated time for personal and professional development. Attend industry conferences, engage in workshops, and tap into the wealth of knowledge shared through webinars. Remember, by investing in yourself, you are investing in your future leadership success.
Seek Diverse Perspectives: Expand Your HorizonsTo truly develop a well-rounded learning mindset, you must actively seek out diverse perspectives. Engage in meaningful conversations with individuals from different backgrounds, industries, and cultures. Embrace different viewpoints and be open to challenging your own assumptions.
Reflect and Iterate: Learn from Every ExperienceReflection is the cornerstone of personal growth and learning. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, both successes and setbacks. Dive deep into your actions, decisions, and outcomes. What worked exceptionally well? What could have been done differently? Learn from every experience, iterate, and continuously strive to become a better leader.
By developing a learning mindset, you open the door to your own potential and the exceptional leader you can be. Embrace the journey, seize every opportunity to learn, and witness the transformation in yourself and your organization.
The choice is yours...choose you and your potential
Here’s wishing you the Clarity (and learning mindset) you deserve!
Stop Chasing Everything – How to Prioritize and Focus on the Right Things to Get Ahead at Work
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
06/09/23 • 8 min
In today's fast-paced work environments, it's easy to fall into the trap of constantly chasing after every task and opportunity that comes your way. However, true success lies in taking inspired action by focusing on the right things. By developing the ability to prioritize effectively and direct your energy towards the most meaningful tasks, you can be more effective and go further faster! In this episode, we will explore strategies to help you take action on the right things at work and cultivate a mindset of inspired action.
Until next time, here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
- Clarify Your Goals: To take inspired action, you first have to get a clear understanding of your goals. Define what success means to you and identify the key goals you want to accomplish. By having a well-defined purpose, you can filter out distractions and prioritize tasks that align with your vision.
- Prioritize Ruthlessly: With countless demands and limited time, prioritization becomes crucial. First, look at the urgency and importance of each task. The Eisenhower Matrix is a valuable tool that categorizes tasks into four quadrants: important and urgent, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. Focus your attention on tasks falling under the important and urgent category while remembering to take consistent action on the important but not urgent tasks as well. They are usually goal related.
- Focus on Your Strengths: Recognize your strengths and leverage them to make an impact. Identify tasks that align with your skills and expertise, as these are the areas where you can excel and create the most value. Delegating tasks that are not within your strengths can also free up time for you to concentrate on what you do best.
- Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals: S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals provide a clear framework for taking action. Break down your larger goals into smaller, actionable steps that are specific, measurable, attainable (and actionable), relevant, and time-bound. This approach enables you to focus on tangible milestones, stay motivated, and measure your progress effectively.
- Embrace the Power of No: Saying "no" can be challenging, but it is essential for protecting your time and energy. Learn to decline tasks or opportunities that do not align with your goals or are beyond what you can reasonably do. Politely explain your reasoning and suggest alternative solutions whenever possible. By saying "no" to the wrong things, you create space for the right things to enter your work life.
- Collaborate and Seek Support: Building strong relationships and collaborating with colleagues can provide valuable support. Engage in open communication with colleagues to ensure you’re on the right track with team goals. Get feedback and input from others to gain an awareness of how you can uplevel in your role.
- Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay curious and commit to ongoing personal and professional development. By constantly learning, you can expand your knowledge and skill set, allowing you to take on more challenging and rewarding tasks. Pursue relevant training, attend workshops, and engage in networking opportunities to stay ahead in your field.
Until next time, here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
The Power of Building Trust in Leadership
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
05/05/23 • 7 min
Trust is a vital ingredient for any successful team or organization, and it all starts with leadership. Without trust in the person at the helm, getting the team to follow directions or feel motivated to work towards a common goal is difficult. As a leader, building trust should be a top priority; luckily, there are plenty of tips and tricks to make it happen.
First, let's talk about why building trust is so important. When team members trust their leader, they are more likely to feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns. This, in turn, leads to better decision-making and problem-solving, as everyone can contribute their unique perspectives. Trust also leads to better communication and more honest feedback, which is essential for growth and improvement. Conversely, when trust is lacking, people tend to hold back and become more guarded, leading to missed opportunities and a lack of progress.
So, how can a leader build trust?
Well, it all starts with being authentic . No one likes a phony, and trying to be someone you're not will only lead to a lack of trust. So it's important to be genuine and honest, even when it's uncomfortable. If you make a mistake, own up to it and apologize. People appreciate transparency and vulnerability, and it helps to build a sense of camaraderie and unity.
Another key component of building trust is consistency. If you say you're going to do something, do it. If you make a promise, keep it. When people know they can count on you, they'll be more likely to trust you. On the flip side, if you're constantly changing your mind or breaking your commitments, people will start to doubt your reliability.
A sense of humor can also go a long way in building trust. Now, I'm not suggesting you start telling knock-knock jokes in every meeting, but being able to laugh at yourself and diffuse tense situations with a bit of humor can help to build rapport and put people at ease. Plus, laughter releases endorphins, which can help to boost morale and increase productivity.
It's also essential to actively listen to your team members. People who feel heard and understood are more likely to trust you. This means putting down your phone, turning away from your computer screen, and really focusing on what the other person is saying. Ask questions, repeat back what they've said to ensure you've understood correctly, and acknowledge their perspective. This not only helps to build trust, but it can also lead to better ideas and solutions.
Last but certainly not least, building trust takes time. It's not something that can be achieved overnight. It requires consistent effort and a willingness to be patient. Don't get discouraged if it feels like progress is slow, and don't give up if you encounter setbacks. Instead, keep showing up, keep being authentic, and keep listening. Over time, trust will be built, and the benefits will be immeasurable.
Building trust in leadership is crucial for any successful leader, team, or organization. It leads to better communication, more honest feedback, and a sense of unity and camaraderie, creating the sort of culture people want to be a part of.
Start now and create the time to build more trust in your relationships inside and outside the workplace. Then, make a choice to show up as your highest and best self for the people who matter the most to you in your leadership and life.
Until next time, here's wishing you the Clarity you deserve to build the trust you desire.
First, let's talk about why building trust is so important. When team members trust their leader, they are more likely to feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns. This, in turn, leads to better decision-making and problem-solving, as everyone can contribute their unique perspectives. Trust also leads to better communication and more honest feedback, which is essential for growth and improvement. Conversely, when trust is lacking, people tend to hold back and become more guarded, leading to missed opportunities and a lack of progress.
So, how can a leader build trust?
Well, it all starts with being authentic . No one likes a phony, and trying to be someone you're not will only lead to a lack of trust. So it's important to be genuine and honest, even when it's uncomfortable. If you make a mistake, own up to it and apologize. People appreciate transparency and vulnerability, and it helps to build a sense of camaraderie and unity.
Another key component of building trust is consistency. If you say you're going to do something, do it. If you make a promise, keep it. When people know they can count on you, they'll be more likely to trust you. On the flip side, if you're constantly changing your mind or breaking your commitments, people will start to doubt your reliability.
A sense of humor can also go a long way in building trust. Now, I'm not suggesting you start telling knock-knock jokes in every meeting, but being able to laugh at yourself and diffuse tense situations with a bit of humor can help to build rapport and put people at ease. Plus, laughter releases endorphins, which can help to boost morale and increase productivity.
It's also essential to actively listen to your team members. People who feel heard and understood are more likely to trust you. This means putting down your phone, turning away from your computer screen, and really focusing on what the other person is saying. Ask questions, repeat back what they've said to ensure you've understood correctly, and acknowledge their perspective. This not only helps to build trust, but it can also lead to better ideas and solutions.
Last but certainly not least, building trust takes time. It's not something that can be achieved overnight. It requires consistent effort and a willingness to be patient. Don't get discouraged if it feels like progress is slow, and don't give up if you encounter setbacks. Instead, keep showing up, keep being authentic, and keep listening. Over time, trust will be built, and the benefits will be immeasurable.
Building trust in leadership is crucial for any successful leader, team, or organization. It leads to better communication, more honest feedback, and a sense of unity and camaraderie, creating the sort of culture people want to be a part of.
Start now and create the time to build more trust in your relationships inside and outside the workplace. Then, make a choice to show up as your highest and best self for the people who matter the most to you in your leadership and life.
Until next time, here's wishing you the Clarity you deserve to build the trust you desire.
How to Develop Better Listening Skills to Amplify Your Leadership
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
05/12/23 • 6 min
There are a ton of skills that you'll need to master if you want to succeed in your leadership career. You'll need to be organized, detail-oriented, strategic, and a great communicator, to name a few. But there's one skill that stands out above all the others and has the largest return on your investment: listening.
Yes, you heard me right. Listening. I know it sounds like a “nice to have” softskill, but hear me out. Listening is critical in leadership because it's the foundation for building strong relationships and trust with your team. And let's face it, if your team doesn't trust you, they're not going to follow you. And if they're not following you, then you're not really leading, are you?
So, how do you become a better listener? Well, it's not rocket science, but it does take some effort. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Now, I know what you're thinking. “I am a good listener already.”
Ah, the self-proclaimed "good listeners. They nod their head, say "uh-huh" at all the right moments, and then promptly forget everything you just said. They think they're great listeners, but in reality, they're about as useful as a chocolate teapot. I want more than that for you!
So, if you want to be a great leader, start by being a great listener. It may not be the most glamorous skill, but it's the one that will serve you the most and set you apart from the crowd, especially if you aspire to leadership.
But let’s be clear – because hey, Clarity is my world; listening skills are not only important for emerging leaders, they are critical in any leadership role. By actively listening, you can build strong relationships with your team and really get to know them as people and at a deeper level. You can gain their trust, and better understand their perspective all by listening twice as much as you talk. You have one mouth and two ears, after all, and that’s the ratio.
Improving your listening skills doesn't require a lot of effort, just a few small changes in your behavior can make a huge difference. But it’s a choice and only one that you can make.
Here's wishing you the Clarity you deserve and becoming the best listener in the room!
Yes, you heard me right. Listening. I know it sounds like a “nice to have” softskill, but hear me out. Listening is critical in leadership because it's the foundation for building strong relationships and trust with your team. And let's face it, if your team doesn't trust you, they're not going to follow you. And if they're not following you, then you're not really leading, are you?
So, how do you become a better listener? Well, it's not rocket science, but it does take some effort. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Put down the phone.
- Make eye contact.
- Don't interrupt.
- Ask questions.
- Repeat back what you heard.
Now, I know what you're thinking. “I am a good listener already.”
Ah, the self-proclaimed "good listeners. They nod their head, say "uh-huh" at all the right moments, and then promptly forget everything you just said. They think they're great listeners, but in reality, they're about as useful as a chocolate teapot. I want more than that for you!
So, if you want to be a great leader, start by being a great listener. It may not be the most glamorous skill, but it's the one that will serve you the most and set you apart from the crowd, especially if you aspire to leadership.
But let’s be clear – because hey, Clarity is my world; listening skills are not only important for emerging leaders, they are critical in any leadership role. By actively listening, you can build strong relationships with your team and really get to know them as people and at a deeper level. You can gain their trust, and better understand their perspective all by listening twice as much as you talk. You have one mouth and two ears, after all, and that’s the ratio.
Improving your listening skills doesn't require a lot of effort, just a few small changes in your behavior can make a huge difference. But it’s a choice and only one that you can make.
Here's wishing you the Clarity you deserve and becoming the best listener in the room!
How Does Reverse Mentoring Work (and Why You Need It)
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
03/17/23 • 6 min
In the fast-paced, ever-changing world of modern business, it's more important than ever for leaders to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and ways of thinking. But as the pace of change accelerates, it can be difficult for even the most experienced leaders to keep up.
That's where reverse mentoring comes in. In essence, reverse mentoring is the practice of pairing a senior leader with a junior employee for the purpose of sharing knowledge, insights, and perspectives. By reversing the traditional mentor-mentee relationship, leaders can gain a fresh perspective on their organization and the larger cultural and technological trends shaping their industry.
So why do you need reverse mentoring as a leader? There are a few key reasons.
First and foremost, reverse mentoring helps leaders stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. By pairing with a junior employee who is closer to the front lines of the organization, you can gain insight into emerging technologies, best practices, and new ways of thinking. This can help you to stay ahead of the competition, identify new opportunities for leadership and business growth, and make better strategic decisions because of the diversity of perspectives.
Second, reverse mentoring can help you better understand the needs and perspectives of younger generations. As the workforce continues to diversify and younger generations become the dominant demographic, leaders need to understand the unique needs and values of these groups. By working closely with a younger employee, leaders can gain insight into the values, priorities, and expectations of the next generation of workers. With five generations in the workforce, this is a huge diversity opportunity.
Finally, reverse mentoring can help break down silos and promote a more collaborative, open culture within an organization. By encouraging senior leaders to work closely with junior employees, reverse mentoring can help break down hierarchical barriers and promote a culture of open communication and collaboration.
So how does reverse mentoring happen in practice? Typically, reverse mentoring programs pair senior leaders with junior employees from different departments or business units. The pairs meet regularly to discuss topics of mutual interest, with the junior employee taking on the mentor role and the senior leader taking on the mentee role. It’s an opportunity for conversations that wouldn’t usually occur and to ask insightful questions.
During these meetings, the junior employee might share their perspective on a particular issue, share best practices from their department, or provide feedback on the organization's culture or policies. The senior leader, in turn, might share their own experiences and insights, providing context and guidance where appropriate.
Overall, reverse mentoring is a powerful tool for any leader looking to stay ahead of the curve and better understand the needs and perspectives of their organization. By pairing with a junior employee, leaders can gain fresh insights, identify emerging trends, and promote a more collaborative, open culture within their organization. So if you haven't already, consider implementing a reverse mentoring program in your organization today.
Until the next time, here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
P.S. If you’d like to bring great mentoring programming to your organization, check out my keynote, The Secret to Exceptional Mentorship: How to Master the Mindset that Connects People, Passion, and Peak Performance, at https://www.debbiepetersonspeaks.com/
That's where reverse mentoring comes in. In essence, reverse mentoring is the practice of pairing a senior leader with a junior employee for the purpose of sharing knowledge, insights, and perspectives. By reversing the traditional mentor-mentee relationship, leaders can gain a fresh perspective on their organization and the larger cultural and technological trends shaping their industry.
So why do you need reverse mentoring as a leader? There are a few key reasons.
First and foremost, reverse mentoring helps leaders stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. By pairing with a junior employee who is closer to the front lines of the organization, you can gain insight into emerging technologies, best practices, and new ways of thinking. This can help you to stay ahead of the competition, identify new opportunities for leadership and business growth, and make better strategic decisions because of the diversity of perspectives.
Second, reverse mentoring can help you better understand the needs and perspectives of younger generations. As the workforce continues to diversify and younger generations become the dominant demographic, leaders need to understand the unique needs and values of these groups. By working closely with a younger employee, leaders can gain insight into the values, priorities, and expectations of the next generation of workers. With five generations in the workforce, this is a huge diversity opportunity.
Finally, reverse mentoring can help break down silos and promote a more collaborative, open culture within an organization. By encouraging senior leaders to work closely with junior employees, reverse mentoring can help break down hierarchical barriers and promote a culture of open communication and collaboration.
So how does reverse mentoring happen in practice? Typically, reverse mentoring programs pair senior leaders with junior employees from different departments or business units. The pairs meet regularly to discuss topics of mutual interest, with the junior employee taking on the mentor role and the senior leader taking on the mentee role. It’s an opportunity for conversations that wouldn’t usually occur and to ask insightful questions.
During these meetings, the junior employee might share their perspective on a particular issue, share best practices from their department, or provide feedback on the organization's culture or policies. The senior leader, in turn, might share their own experiences and insights, providing context and guidance where appropriate.
Overall, reverse mentoring is a powerful tool for any leader looking to stay ahead of the curve and better understand the needs and perspectives of their organization. By pairing with a junior employee, leaders can gain fresh insights, identify emerging trends, and promote a more collaborative, open culture within their organization. So if you haven't already, consider implementing a reverse mentoring program in your organization today.
Until the next time, here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
P.S. If you’d like to bring great mentoring programming to your organization, check out my keynote, The Secret to Exceptional Mentorship: How to Master the Mindset that Connects People, Passion, and Peak Performance, at https://www.debbiepetersonspeaks.com/
How to Refocus at Work: The Way to Rebound After a Setback
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice
06/02/23 • 7 min
Setbacks are an inevitable part of life, and they can occur in any aspect, including our professional lives. Whether it's a missed deadline, a failed project, or a disappointing outcome, setbacks can leave us feeling unmotivated and unsure of how to move forward. However, the key to bouncing back lies in refocusing our energy and efforts toward achieving success once again. One effective approach to refocusing at work after a setback is by utilizing the SMART goal process.
The SMART goal process is a well-known framework that helps individuals set clear and achievable objectives. By incorporating this process into our professional lives, we can regain our focus, boost our momentum, and work towards overcoming setbacks. Let's explore how each component of the SMART goal process can aid us in refocusing at work:
Until next time, Here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
The SMART goal process is a well-known framework that helps individuals set clear and achievable objectives. By incorporating this process into our professional lives, we can regain our focus, boost our momentum, and work towards overcoming setbacks. Let's explore how each component of the SMART goal process can aid us in refocusing at work:
- Specific: The first step in refocusing is to establish specific goals. Instead of vague aspirations, define exactly what you want to achieve. For example, if your setback involved a missed sales target, a specific goal might be to increase sales by 20% within the next quarter.
- Measurable: It’s absolutely necessary to establish measurements to gauge your progress. By making your goals measurable, you can track your achievements and stay motivated. In the case of increasing sales, you could measure progress by tracking the number of new leads generated or the revenue generated from each client.
- Achievable/Actionable: While it's important to set ambitious goals, they should still be attainable. Consider the available resources, time constraints, and any potential obstacles to ensure the goal is realistic and attainable. Finally, break the desired goal down into smaller, manageable tasks.
- Relevant: Make sure that your refocusing efforts align with your overall professional objectives. It could be the misstep was designed to show you this isn’t the direction you should be moving. Your goals should contribute to your long-term growth and success. In the case of increasing sales, it should be relevant to your role and the company's sales strategy.
- Time-bound: Setting deadlines is crucial because one day and someday never come. What is a reasonable timeline for achieving your goals? For instance, you may aim to increase sales by 20% within the next quarter, providing a specific timeframe to work towards.
- Break down your goals: Large goals can often seem overwhelming, leading to a lack of motivation. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach allows for a step-by-step progression and a sense of accomplishment along the way.
- Seek support and feedback: Don't be afraid to reach out to colleagues or mentors for advice and support. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you navigate through challenges and setbacks.
- Change your attitude about setbacks: Rather than dwelling on failures, use setbacks as opportunities for growth. Analyze what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and apply those lessons moving forward. Cultivate a growth mindset that embraces challenges as learning experiences.
- Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements along the way. Recognizing your progress boosts motivation and helps maintain a positive attitude.
Until next time, Here’s wishing you the Clarity you deserve!
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FAQ
How many episodes does Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice have?
Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice currently has 155 episodes available.
What topics does Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice cover?
The podcast is about Management, Business Success, Podcasts, Self-Improvement, Education and Business.
What is the most popular episode on Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice?
The episode title 'Making a Bigger Impact on Your Relationships at Work as a New Leader' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice?
The average episode length on Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice is 13 minutes.
How often are episodes of Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice released?
Episodes of Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice?
The first episode of Getting to Clarity: Creating MORE Success With Less Sacrifice was released on Jul 7, 2021.
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