Joy, Courage, and Networking Nuggets!

Welcome to another edition of Kickin' it with Kristen — your midweek motivation every Wednesday!

Don't put off your potential — try coaching and book a complimentary Coaching Session today! #leadership #personaldevelopment #learning

??Aha! Moment

I wanted to share a real moment that caught me off guard and led to some unexpected soul-searching. At a networking event, amidst casual conversations, I was asked, 'Are you married, or are you happy?' At first glance, it's a quirky, even humorous question. But it sparked a deep dive into the choices we make and why we make them, especially regarding happiness and authenticity.

This question opened my eyes to the autopilot mode many of us operate in, ticking off life's milestones without pausing to ask, 'Does this truly make me happy?' It's not just about questioning societal norms but about a deeper, personal inquiry into our own paths to fulfillment.

For instance, consider the leadership role many of us play, whether at work or in personal projects. I once led a project that was successful by all standard measures—on time, under budget, with excellent outcomes. Yet, something felt off. It was only upon reflection that I realized that success, for me, wasn't just about meeting those external benchmarks. It was about the journey, the team collaboration, and the innovative solutions we created along the way. That project, though successful, lacked the creative challenge and team spirit that truly lit me up. This was my 'Aha!' moment about aligning my work with what genuinely brings me joy and fulfillment.

Drawing from this, I encourage leaders to regularly check in with themselves and their teams. Ask, 'What part of our work excites us the most?' and 'How can we align our projects more closely with these passions?' This not only boosts morale but also leads to more innovative and heartfelt contributions.

Let’s make it more tangible:

1. Reflect Daily: Spend 5 minutes at the end of each day reflecting on what tasks energized you and which ones drained you. It's a simple way to start understanding your happiness drivers.
2. Open Dialogue: Initiate conversations with your team about what aspects of their work they find most fulfilling. Use this feedback to tailor roles and projects where possible.
3. Celebrate Authenticity: Encourage sharing of personal 'Aha!' moments in team meetings. This practice not only builds a culture of openness but also helps everyone feel more connected and understood.

So, what's your story? Have you had a moment that made you rethink what makes you truly happy, especially in your role as a leader or team member? How did it change your approach? Share your experiences, and let's dive into the practical ways we can all chase genuine happiness in our professional lives. #RealTalk #LeadershipGrowth #PursueHappiness

1??One Thing I...

?? Learned - This week, I wrapped up my training for my new role at HelmsBriscoe, and let me tell you, it was fun and exciting! Diving back into the world of events and meetings felt like coming home—there's something about helping people come together that I love. Each module of the training brought new insights and reinforced my passion for this industry. It's a reminder of how much joy learning and growing in a field you love can bring. Here's to new beginnings and the exciting challenges ahead!

?? Read - Recently, I stumbled upon a LinkedIn post by Sarah Johnston that struck a chord with me. It delved into our often irrational fear of the word "no" and the missed opportunities that come with that fear. Whether it's asking for a promotion, pitching an idea, or simply making a personal request, we've all hesitated, fearing rejection. But what if we flipped the script and celebrated the courage it takes to ask in the first place? Sarah shared a heartwarming story about a young Braves fan who dared to ask his idol, Michael "Money" Harris II, for a trade—resulting in a memorable exchange and a powerful lesson: "If you don't ask, the answer is always no." This narrative not only highlights the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones but also serves as a reminder of the beautiful possibilities that unfold when we do.

?? Watched - In a powerful display of solidarity and support, South Carolina's basketball coach Dawn Staley, after leading her team to victory in the NCAA, made a public call out to Caitlin Clark. It was a remarkable moment, emphasizing the significance of women uplifting each other. This act of kindness and recognition serves as a potent example for us all, showcasing the strength and impact we can have when we support one another. It's a vivid reminder that our successes are sweeter when shared and that every woman's achievement paves the way for more to follow.

?? Accomplished - Every Friday, I set myself a challenge: reach out to at least 10 new folks on LinkedIn for a chance to network. Admittedly, ticking this off my weekly to-do list has been a bit of a struggle lately. However, last Friday, I carved out dedicated time for this task, and wow, did it pay off! Not only did I meet my goal, but 7 out of those 10 people have already booked virtual coffees with me for this week! Calendly has been a game-changer for me, making the process of scheduling these meetings so much smoother and more efficient. For me, networking is all about forging authentic connections and learning from the diverse experiences of others. If you're up for sharing stories, insights, or just having a good, old-fashioned chat over a virtual coffee, I'd love to connect. Feel free to pick a time that works for you, here .

??Insight for the Week

Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear. – George Addair

?Ask Kristen

Thanks to everyone who sent in questions. This one came from the state of Illinois!

Q: After being suddenly laid off, what strategies can I use to seek out job opportunities that really align with what I love doing?

A: First and foremost, I am sorry for the unexpected job loss you and others have recently experienced. Such a change can be incredibly challenging, not just professionally but emotionally as well. Here’s some advice that might help you navigate through this period:

Take Time to Process It's crucial to allow yourself some time to grieve and process the loss and change. Job loss can feel similar to other major life changes; it's important to acknowledge those feelings rather than push them aside.

Reflect on What You Want Next Use this time as an opportunity to reflect on what you truly want from your next role. Consider your passions, your strengths, and what kind of work environment or culture you thrive in. Sometimes, unexpected changes can lead to the most fulfilling paths.

Consider a Pivot This might be an opportune time to consider pivoting in your career. Reach out to a leadership coach, and they can help you explore different paths. Many coaches provide complimentary initial sessions, which could offer fresh insights and actionable strategies for navigating through this period and laying the groundwork for what comes next.

These discussions can be revealing, shining a light on your unique strengths and how they can be leveraged for future job opportunities. A fresh perspective can open up new possibilities you haven't considered before.

If you're navigating through such a transition, I'm here to lend a hand. I do offer special discounts to make this process a bit easier financially. Let's connect and explore how we can turn this challenge into a stepping stone for your career.

Focus on Your Strengths Investing time in recognizing your strengths and the kind of work that excites you is invaluable. Understanding what you excel at and what genuinely interests you can guide you toward new career opportunities. It’s about more than just finding a job where you can utilize your skills—it’s about discovering a role that aligns with your passions and drives you.

Develop Your Personal Brand Your personal brand is more than a resume; it's a way to showcase who you are and what you stand for. Became more vocal and visible on LinkedIn, sharing your journey, challenges, and the help you are looking for. This transparency can resonate with others and show potential employers the real you, beyond just qualifications on paper.

Be Candid and Ask for Help Don't hesitate to be open about your situation and ask for help. Share your experiences and the challenges you faced. I promise you that people in your network will want to help and support you. They will become your champions, connecting you to opportunities.

Losing a job unexpectedly is undoubtedly tough, but it can also be a catalyst for growth, self-discovery, and new beginnings. Lean on your network, consider coaching, and take this time to really think about what you want your next chapter to look like. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and often, your network can provide the support and connections you need during this time.

Do you have a question about a current leadership challenge or situation? You can send me your questions to me via a direct message on LinkedIn.