By Kim Brame McGimsey, NBC-HWC
Going into the past few “new” years, instead of setting “resolutions,” which, to some, is a dirty word, I’ve adopted the tradition of choosing a word or series of words to guide my intentions.
For 2018, it’s “CREATE.”
As I was pondering what that might look like for me, I remembered a recent training, offered by the National Association of Corporate Directors, on effective board service. One segment focused on the value of creating a positive culture on your board with five recommendations. Though within the context of board service, they struck me as apropos of the many dimensions of our lives, whether it falls under the heading of volunteer, professional, or in our personal life.
So, to think outside of my normal box, I decided to ponder these recommendations to further shape my intentions for 2018. Below are my ponderings and intentions.
This challenges me to consider how I will stay fresh and relevant. As a private practitioner, without a boss driving me or my work, it is up to me. Whether you have a boss or not, I think it inspires positivity and possibilities, because you get to decide what you want to create that challenges and inspires you.
It is empowering to take an inventory of the strengths and habits that support you currently (or previously). Your self-efficacy will motivate you to do #5 below and tackle the inevitable obstacles along the way.
How do you want to think about this? Compensated or uncompensated? Formal or informal? An authentic mentoring relationship is often raw and vulnerable. My experience is it’s both humbling and invigorating when someone speaks into my life as well as when I have the privilege of speaking into someone else’s.
This makes me think of legacy, what I hope people and organizations are left with through our relationship or interaction. My hope is for others to know how special and unique they are, to feel that their contributions are valued, to believe they can accomplish their heart’s desire, and to challenge any thinking to the contrary.
Before you consider this challenge, flesh out how you want to handle the saboteurs that might get in your way. For me, it’s me. My insecure inner critic wants to protect me from rejection or failure, so I must remember my strategy for dealing with that inner voice. If you’ve taken inventory of your strengths in #2, review those when you need a boost of confidence. And when I get stuck in thinking and research and development mode, deadlines and accountability support me.
I hope this framework and pondering process stirs up something new and fresh for you. It reminds me that it takes intention, planning, and execution to bring my “A” game. It also takes understanding that my “A” game is not about perfection, and that I require self-compassion – knowing it is the best I’ve got in that moment. Some days are better than others, and I’m learning to embrace them all.
So happy pondering and Happy New Year.
Duke Integrative Medicine’s public programs and professional trainings offer many opportunities to receive mentoring, learn how to utilize best practices in your work or life, and stretch outside your comfort zone. Health coaches can consider registering for the IHCPT Certification Course, which provides individual mentoring to improve and strengthen your coaching skills. Many other program opportunities are available for personal and professional development. How will you choose to move forward in the New Year?
As the days grow longer and warmer, spring offers more than blooming flowers and blue skies—it's also the perfect time to declutter and refresh your living space. Spring cleaning, often considered a household chore, can significantly boost your overall well-being.
Mindfulness meditation and mindful awareness may sound similar, but they are not the same. Meditation establishes a foundation for mindful living, while mindful awareness enables you to fully engage with each moment. Learn the difference between mindfulness meditation and mindful Awareness and how to incorporate both into your daily life ...
READ MOREExercise is increasingly recognized as a crucial element in managing Parkinson's disease (PD). It offers numerous benefits that enhance the quality of life for those affected. Regular physical activity can improve mobility, balance, and overall well-being.
Getting Started with ...