Strategic Serendipity

When I signed up for the 31 Day Blogging Challenge  my main objective was to train myself to write every day.  I found so much more.  The challenge leader has provided daily support, encouragement, and tips that I look forward to reading every morning.  The challenge also includes reading and commenting on other participant's blogs.  I have found some wonderful bloggers and am thoroughly enjoying sharing this process with them. I think sometimes when we take on a challenge we may anticipate some of what we will gain, but often, we learn so much more than we ever expected.  If we can keep that in mind as we begin challenges maybe it will push us a little harder? Twelve days into the challenge, I have already topped my previous high monthly views.  For those bloggers who have posts with views in the millions, the activity on my blog may not be earth shattering.    For me, it is truly inspiring. If you have a blog or want to start one, I r...

As I dropped my toddler off at daycare today one classmate was already crying, another was literally on the verge, and two more (including mine) started before I left.  I left with a guilty relief thinking "I am so glad I don't have their job today" and "those gift cards do not even cut it for what they put up with."  You've seen it, one child is crying because he fell and the others cry not necessarily because they are hurt but seemingly out of a type of empathy. It goes the other way, too!  Watch any group of people (male or female) of any age get started laughing and once it gets going it is almost impossible to stop.  There isn't one leader, it is just a ripple of feeling that touches everyone in it's path. It may be a funny story when it happens in a pre-school room, but it happens in the office, too.  Whether you are the CEO or a front-line contributor, your attitude directly impacts every person with whom you come into contact.  And each p...

In working with senior leaders I typically find an outright aversion to social networking.  I hear people say "I would never want the people I work with as Facebook friends," "That is just a time waster," and "Our organization blocks it so it must be bad."  When used properly, however, social networking can be a huge asset.  There are lots of posts on how to use it, what to use, etc.  I recently gave my personal Facebook page up to just be a way to update friends and family on my son's progress.  Riveting to some, but not necessarily something that everyone wants to read.  I warned everyone before I did it and directed those "work" connections to my Strategic Serendipity Facebook "Page" and my Linked In account.  This works really well for me.  I'm currently experimenting with Google Plus so feel free to "circle?" me on that if you wish.  Here are the general guidelines I use when posting. Rule #1 - Don't post ...