One expands your energy, the other puts a lid on it. Guess which is which. I had a discussion with some friends yesterday about phrases we habitually use, whether they are thought connectors, or simply phrases that fill the space. Words like "right", or "like", or "exactly." A phrase that I have used and have started to use again is "it is what it is." I had even included it in an article a long time ago as an example of an equalizer in a difficult management moment, an momentary acceptance if you will. But, now I realize it's more a phrase of resignation, of resigning to a less than ideal situation or circumstance. It has shifted my thinking about the notion of acceptance. The very synonyms of resignation say it all: acquiescence, conformity, long-suffering, uncomplainingness. That kind of makes me want to laugh and cry at the same time.... Read more →

I'm sure there are many days you'd rather end that sentence as in the classic 1977 Johnny Paycheck hit. I find it ironic that Johnny’s last name is Paycheck, given the theme of this post. I’m just sayin’. I read a crazy statistic that some 1 million people call in sick every day, and surveys vary, but anywhere from 45% to 87% of people in this country don’t like their jobs. So, if this is you, you’re definitely not alone. But, this isn’t a misery-loves-company kind of day. How about you make a vow to really love your job? Even if it’s just for a day? If you’re already there, congratulations! If not, perhaps some of the following ideas might help: Call in sick. Kidding. First morning thoughts – when you get up in the morning, think of 3 things you’re really looking forward to that day, anything from seeing... Read more →

My amazing friend Ferrell Marshall's latest blog post gives great suggestions for how to volunteer yourself for service. She's a living example... I vow to do more. "Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love" Read more... via ferrellscommunity.wordpress.com Read more →

It's not what you do that matters, it's who you are. But, at the same time they are connected, aren't they? When what you do matters to you, then you are more of who you are supposed to be. Read more →

"Music is the mediator between the spiritual and sensual life." ~ Beethoven I saw this brilliant show last night at The Ahmanson in LA, the original Broadway cast in the Tony nominated play, "33 Variations." The story dissects Beethoven's obsession with his composition of 33 variations on Anton Diabelli's waltz, told via a musicologist's own obsession with Beethoven's obsession. The musicologist was portrayed mesmorizingly by Jane Fonda. It got me thinking about how both of their obsessions led to true genius by "33 Variations" playwright Moises Kaufman. Does obsession lead to genius? Can it? If it's channeled in the right way? Is it curiosity with purpose, or a need to fill a never-ending hole? Is it ever satisfied? Dorothy Parker said, "The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity." Well, if this is what curiosity leads to obsession leads to genius looks like... I want some. Read more →