Three Thoughts to Carry with you in November
As we lean into November and embrace creativity, I’ve been reflecting on a few leadership lessons that have shaped how I show up—not just at work, but in life. I just returned from a business retreat planning for 2025 and it had me thinking on how I got here. The importance of staying in alignment to the core of this mission, our "why" - to support leaders in advancing their impact and lives. It had me reflecting on that congruence that great leaders have, no matter what they do. Leadership is not a title or role; it’s a mindset, a way of being. Modern leaders, the game-changers, understand that showing up fully—both at work and in life—is what truly makes an impact. We don’t have to choose one over the other.
With the season bringing more family time and togetherness, these three principles are worth practicing - not just in meetings or on the job, but around the dinner table too.
1. Be About it, Don't Just Talk About it
Actions speak louder than words - always. The leaders who inspire us most are the ones who live their values every day. It's easy to talk about priorities like innovation, collaboration, or wellbeing, but how often do we actively model them?
👉Try this: Choose one thing you've been saying you'll do - whether it's prioritizing family dinners, making time for self-care, or mentoring a teammate - and commit to it this week. Be about it, and watch the ripple effect.
2. Not the Loudest in the Room, but the Most Uplifting
True leaders don't dominate conversations; they elevate them. They listen deeply, ask great questions, and leave people feeling more confident and capable. Being uplifting takes intention - you don't have to agree with everything. It's about finding ways to energize and encourage others.
👉Try this: In your next meeting or conversation, focus on amplifying someone else's ideas. Notice how it transforms the dynamic and fosters connection.
3. It's Not About Being Right, It's About Getting It Right
This one hits home for me. Leadership isn't about winning arguments or proving a point; it's about finding solutions and doing what's best for the team, the project, or the goal. Ego often gets in the way of progress, but when we let go of needing to be right, we open the door to collaboration and real results. Better relationships are fostered both at work and at home.
👉Try this: The next time you feel the urge to "win", pause and ask yourself, "What's the best way to move forward together?"
Leading today takes intention, it is a practice - a daily opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact. As we focus on creativity and joy this month, let's also recommit to showing up in ways that inspire and uplift others. When you do, that ease and flow follows!
Take in every moment with your families and teams this week. Enjoy the little moments and conversations, be present and make some memories this holiday!
The Serotonin Boost of Giving Back
In a world where self-care is emphasized, there's another important aspect of personal well-being that can easily be overlooked: the act of giving back. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply helping someone in need, giving to others can provide profound benefits not just to the recipient, but to the giver as well. One of the most significant effects of helping others is the boost in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, happiness, and overall wellbeing.
The Science Behind the Serotonin Boost
Serotonin is often referred to as the "feel-good" chemical in the brain. It helps regulate mood, appetite, sleep, and even social behavior. When serotonin levels are balanced, we tend to feel calm, content, and positive. Low levels, on the other hand, are associated with feelings of depression, anxiety, and irritability.
When you give back, your brain's reward system is activated, and the production of serotonin increases. Studies have shown that altruistic behavior - acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity - can trigger the release of serotonin, as well as other "feel-good" chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. The experience of doing something kind or generous stimulates neural circuits that are linked to happiness and social connection.
Serotonin is also involved in fostering social connections, and helping others is one of the best ways to build meaningful relationships. Acts of kindess create feelings of trust and reciprocity, which enhance feelings of belonging. Being part of a community or network of supportive people is essential for mental health, and the serotonin boost that comes from helping others strengthens these social ties. Whether it's offering your time to a local organization or simply helping a neighbor, these interactions contribute to a sense of connection and can have a lasting positive impact on your mood.
This feeling of contributing to something greather than oneself can be incredibly fulfilling and is associated with long-term happiness and wellbeing. If you're looking to give back (and get a little serotonin boost), here's some easy activities you can do this holiday season:
1. Volunteer: Offer your time and energy to causes that are meaningful to you, whether that's helping at a food bank, mentoring, or assisting with a community event.
2. Random Acts of Kindness: Small gestures like paying for someone's coffee, sending a thoughtful note, or helping a neighbor can have a big impact on both you and the recipient.
3. Donate: Whether it's clothing, money, or items you no longer need, donating to a cause you care about can be incredibly fulfilling.
4. Lend an Ear: Sometimes, just listening to someone who needs support can be one of the most impactful ways to give back. Offering emotional support helps strengthen bonds and shows others they're valued.
5. Support Local Businesses: Shopping locally or supporting small businesses in your community is another great way to give back while strengthening the local economy and fostering a sense of community.
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What you do today can improve all your tomorrows."
– Ralph Marston
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