SILVER LININGS

In the United States, it appears the pandemic is under control.  Let’s hope it stays that way!  As always, there is a silver lining.  Here are the top three things I learned during the pandemic that I hope to remember for a lifetime.

Life is short and unpredictable.  My life turned upside down just like yours did.  Speaking disappeared, while online course popularity surged.  I faced serious questions about how to shape the next decade of my professional life.  I chose my pivot and got to work…  Did I mention cancer?  Sneaky beast almost took my wife – almost.  I don’t think people should live foolishly as if today were their last.  However, after you diligently plan and prepare, you do need to live fully, take a few chances, and try to become the bravest version of yourself.  

Sacrifice builds discipline.  The pandemic reminds me a little of the famous delayed gratification experiment with the kids and the marshmallows.  The punchline is that those willing and able to resist immediate gratification tend to do better in life.  I’ve always liked this idea.  The pandemic forced millions of us to understand this reality.  From restaurants to vacations to family gatherings, we had to say no.  Some of us broke the rules, but I’ll bet that those who resisted immediate gratification, long-term, are better for it.  

People need authentic connections.  Human connection is essential for life.  Without it our soul withers.  We all knew that, but now we’ve felt it.  Money and toys provide fun moments in life from time to time, but they’re not essential.  What matters is food, water, shelter, and human connection.  As we evolve towards some new normal, I hope we remember to make time on a regular basis to connect – to say hello, be inquisitive, say thank you, and to just be present and listen.

TODD’S TIPS

Are you a leader, formal or otherwise?  If so, I know you are stressed out.  I understand that you often look at the team and wonder where to begin.  To cut through the fog when you begin each new day at work, reflect for a moment on these three questions:

Why are we here?  (what purpose do we serve?)

How can I help them?  (how can I build and maintain relationships?)

What needs to get done?  (what are the results the define success?)

No matter what happens during the day, you’re likely to be more productive when you begin with a focus on these issues.  Think about them.  Talk to the team.  Get to work. 

WHAT’S UP WITH DR. D?

Sticking with our silver linings theme – what’s up?  A lot! 

·      Live Hard speech.  With every book comes a new speech.  I’ll never stop sharing versions of the Show Your Ink speech, but now I’m ready to share totally new material building on the content of my recently launched book of twenty fresh stories, Live Hard:  https://amzn.to/2QjPMPc, and when you’re planning your next big company event, give me a shout because the speech is killer (book me:  https://bit.ly/2RSSBHq).

·      Two new FREE courses.  Immediately available for all new speaking clients, either a Show Your Ink course or a Live Hard course.  Each is a premium quality course packed with practical advice ready to be added to your organization’s learning platform.  This is the high-quality actionable advice you’ve come to expect from me.  Your employees will love these useful insights derived from the books.  Did I mention they are FREE for all new speaking clients?

·      4xTEDx.  I’m thrilled to share three new TEDx performances.  The original was in 2013 (https://bit.ly/2QnNhvg) and now three new ones are in post-production and will be available soon.  They address a variety of classic yet highly relevant topics including why we fail to support creativity and innovation and what to do about it, the price of deviance for change agents and why it’s worth it, and the need to choose a positive version of perseverance in the face of challenges.  Coming soon!

·      Executive speech coaching.  I’ve been a top-level pro speaker for many years.  I’ve written about the topic.  I have multiple popular courses about speaking (https://bit.ly/3ojdCHg).  I’ve coached loads of MBAs and executives personally.  Now, I’m officially offering managers and executives a new three-tiered service:  video analysis of an existing speech or practice speech, virtual coaching to help you create a new speech, or an on-site workshop to help multiple members of your team enhance their speech skills.  After working with me, your words will have far more impact.  Read more on the coaching page at www.drdewett.com. 

·      Just Ask Dr. D.  My new coaching service goes live this week!  Watch for announcements and free trial membership information coming soon! 

FYI – I will be live streaming with my partner in crime Sara Canaday this Tuesday (5.18.21) at 11 central – topic:  rebounding from mistakes.  Just follow me on LinkedIn and you will receive notice when we go live.  Your questions are welcome!

Until next time – stay safe, go learn something, maybe help someone, or at least do something interesting!

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All of my links in one place:  https://linktr.ee/drdewett.