Posts by inspired_admin

Having recently returned from the International Positive Psychology (IPPA) conference in Montreal, I am filled with fresh research information and inspiration from new and practical findings in this exciting field.  At the start of this conference, Dr. Martin Seligman inspired the 1,300 people in attendance with the idea that every few centuries, an idea comes about that sweeps every aspect of humanity and that idea now is that we have the capacity to bring about the flourishing of human beings.   One of the highlights of this conference was the session from Dr. Kim Cameron on positive energy as applied to positive leadership.  Having brought the concept of relational energy in the corporate world as a consultant, Cameron was able to demonstrate that when a...

In a recent coaching session with a woman launching into retirement, the conversation focused on various options she is considering to re-engage, not merely “retire”.  As we explored her transferable skills and natural talents, I sensed she had a strong leadership edge that was seeking to come alive and put to good use. My client provided an example explaining that she had initiated an informal support/action group with former colleagues who were sharing the same goal of increasing their health/fitness and stamina.  It worked very well she said; the participants were supporting each other and had good success reaching the goals they had set.  Our coaching conversation then shifted to exploring her core values, and motivators that could be activated at the...

Having recently returned from leading seminars in 4 cities in 3 eastern provinces, I feel invigorated. During the seminars I was leading for boomers on the way to re-engagement, rather than retirement, I met and heard about remarkable people: an altruistic 40 something who works out 3 times a day and devotes himself to benevolent projects in his spare time, a 102 years old healthy and active woman living independently, an astute business owner who transformed his company away from “command and control” leadership style to growing a collaborative coaching culture that fosters even greater success.  In the process of inspiring others, I also got inspired.  And as the New Year brings wind in the sails or our aspirations, I invite you to cast some goals forward into...

Recently a new coaching client who is striving for career change returned from a 3- week vacation in Europe.  While her mind became increasingly calm and relaxed during her time away, she noticed how quickly that state of mind vanished once back at work. Within a few days, she found herself much more intolerant of the inordinate demands of work which had routinely forced her into 10 hour-days when she typically gets paid for 8.  During our coaching conversation, she realized that the trip had created a disruption in her routine while simultaneously immersing her in that much preferred state of mind.  With this expanded perspective, she was able to see that she really disliked having to live under the time pressure associated with doing work that has been rather...

In French, “printemps” meaning spring comes from the Latin roots “first” and “time”. Doing something for the first time helps us to experience a sense of renewal and spring forward beyond the edge of our comfort zone. As is discussed at some point in my What’s Next re-engagement seminar, when we push against the outer edge of our comfort zone, it expands. Simply put, when we expose ourselves to new experiences, place, people or learning opportunities, we grow new capabilities while at the same time sustaining our vitality and ability to engage with the world around us. In spring time, we are often reminded to clean up our environment, de-clutter, and the like. That is a good way to lighten up, simplify our lives and experience that freshness we associate with...