It’s a beautiful day and I’m thoroughly enjoying my morning walk. I’m alert to how uneven the terrain is where my feet are hitting the ground. As I examine the road for safe footing, I grow increasingly aware of the many animals that have been flattened under the wheels of cars. We have a term for it — roadkill. Now that my attention is focused on it, my thoughts are taking some creative turns.
Read moreCriticism
"If only you could be less like a wild rose: less thorny and more open."
How do we respond to coaching, feedback, correction – euphemisms for the c-word, criticism? How does it feel when we receive unsolicited feedback? "Be more aggressive.” “Be less abrasive." “I wouldn’t say that if I were you.” It’s helpful to learn how other people see us and to hear their suggestions for change. But it would be easier if criticism didn't come packaged as faultfinding.
Read moreWhat?
Woops! Before I can catch my cup, my coffee spills, splashing the perfectly pressed slacks of the elegant gentleman dining at the table next to mine in the restaurant. Under his breath, but still audible, I hear him say, “Fopdoodle!” The word sounds cartoonish, but his tone is unmistakable — it resonates with irritation. I realize that he's swearing at me! Still mopping up the mess, I blurt, “What?”
Read moreSingle Use
I'm guilty of abusing the convenience of single use plastic — throwaway items like: water bottles that don't degrade; coffee cups, lids and stirrers; plastic wrap; and takeaway packaging. My carelessness stopped when I read this statistic: 5 seconds to make, 5 minutes to use, 500 years to break down.
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