Blog post #1 - Time for an Evolution!

Writing frightens me a bit. I wasn't a great writer in school and only improved as I progressed in corporate life. There, the stakes were higher, and the feedback was unselfish. I had to write for executives above me and many employees at all levels. I was not good with clear, simple, and short messages. Over time, I learned how to get better. But now, with a Blog, I strive to put messages out that are brief yet meaningful.

So, here I go. 

Embrace the Space and Pace

My work has slowed over the last six months, and I've been in simmer mode. I've been anxious about it because we live in a world that rewards fast action, regardless of its sustainable value. About a month or two ago, I decided to embrace it. Embrace the open space and let go of forcing things. I went back to thinkers of old and explored some new ones to help in this mindset shift. A shift from "busy = success" to "welcoming in the uncertainty and trusting the unseen and unknown support (and progress)." How much space is on your calendar this week to pause and contemplate your inclusive leadership effectiveness?

Prune Away

In February, without any real intentions, I spent time in the flower beds pruning plants for the first time in my life. I had never done it before because you don't see an immediate return on your action.

But this was a part of getting rid of some "old wood" so new life would arrive with vibrant energy. It was about getting rid of the old to allow for more efficient energy to produce something better. What must you let go of to make space for new growth?

Be Patient

"When are these darn flowers going to bloom?!" One can't rush Mother Nature. I wish I had paid more attention in my science classes to fully appreciate the universe's wonders—in this case, the renewal process of plants and flowers. And I'm starting to see the rewards of my earlier work. I have to say, I am more satisfied. And, as I am actively working to evolve my business, I'm more satisfied with it. What are you being impatient about? Why? 

Experiment

Okay, so I did a whack job on some of the plants. Even though I researched, some things, like our rosemary plant, could be healthier. But that's how we learn, isn't it? We have to experiment, get feedback, and adjust our approach. And from what little I know, there will be opportunities shortly to prune again. What could you experiment with on your "to-do" list and be okay with a "B+" result?

Evaluate

Remember, I intended to be short yet meaningful. That was challenging. But, as I evaluated this first post, four "tips" emerged.

1. Embrace the Space and Pace - I grabbed time this morning and went for it.

2. Prune Away - I pushed my social media scrolling aside and jumped into a blog.

3. Be Patient - I noticed some judgment while writing (nobody cares to read this. It doesn't make sense) and was patient as I cleared those thoughts away and kept going.

4. Experiment - Blog post done. Less than perfect. Feeling okay.

Thanks for reading. I hope at least one nugget/insight helped your evolutionary journey.

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