What enables you to thrive?

Our team at Wisdom Works is inspired by an audacious vision to fuel a movement of leaders that prioritizes and amplifies thriving worldwide. We believe the complexities in our lives, workplaces, and societies demand this kind of leadership. This isn’t leadership defined only by an organizational title or role. It is the leadership which naturally arises when each of us decide to use our lives to strengthen the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual core of all beings, plus harness that collective power for a better, more inclusive, and just world.

We are full of gratitude to engage in this bold vision with a growing community of people (we affectionately call Be Well Lead Well Pulse? Certified Guides) living and working in every corner of the globe. These people are incredible! They walk on Earth with big minds, big hearts, and big commitments to uplift humanity through healthier, more conscious, effective, and sustainable ways of leading. As we close 2022, we asked them to share with you the practices that enable them to thrive personally.?Here are some of their voices.

WHAT PRACTICES ENABLE YOU TO THRIVE?

"I've allocated more time in my day to start back playing the saxophone?after a 40 year break. Thriving?during the holiday was having a holiday concert and having my grand kids in attendance." — Jay Bryant , Mint Collective

"In these times of “year end stress” and lots of overwhelm in all aspects of my life I reconnect with THRIVING through my self care routine: 30 min of yoga early in the morning, a glass of hot lemon & ginger before breakfast, 2x5 minutes breathing during the day. I spend?loads of quality time with my family and friends and reconnect with nature on a daily basis by walking & skiing in the mountains. Also, I will work on a Vision Board for 2023 to get more clarity on my priorities for the new year." — Julia Schwoerer , Barilla Group

“My wife and I work together to provide warm, welcoming hospitality to all our holiday visitors; a place where they can rest from their labors, their stresses, and routines. We want to give the gift of a safe haven where love and laughter are food for the soul."— Dave Schrader, PhD , Leadership Circle

"The things I love to do during the holidays have become fewer as I have aged. So, in order to thrive, I am gradually culling things that I don’t want to continue—such as wrapping gifts, which?does not bring the joy of the past.?It is more about doing more of what feels good with a sprinkle of “I guess I need to do…”?And at the end of each day I sit in my incredibly comfortable recliner, breathe out a few times, and look around my living room. My husband is in his chair, our new puppy is curled up or begging us to play with her, the tree lights are on, the Christmas pillows bring warmth, and I remember how grateful I am for life, for family and friends, and for our home."— Jane Cocking , Wisdom Works Group

"I enjoy living life through the eyes of my children who have tremendous capacity for wonderment and awe! The simple things in life are the most beautiful to me!"— Jennifer N. , Genentech

"This holiday season, I plan on slowing down to savor the wonder of the season, to experience that warm glow of Christmas through my son's eyes and the joy of togetherness with my family. I will also spend some time focusing on my purpose and fueling up, as I have big plans for next year!"— Keith Cocking , The Home Depot

"Connections that feed my soul in body, mind and spirit enable me to thrive, especially during the holidays: ancient medieval cathedrals—sacred places that are wonders of builders, worship, and honor; a run in crisp winter air to reset the mind, and light fluffy new fallen snow; and the music of the season in all languages feels rooted in uplifting inspiration."— Dianne Culhane, Wisdom Works Group

"I thrive when I am able to control what I can control, versus trying to control what I can’t. This helps me thrive in a way I feel confident I am making the right decisions and being present for the people that need me."— Andrea Zemel , Trilogy Spa Holdings

"I connect with thriving by creating space (both physical and mind space) for learning and reflection during the holiday season. I make a conscious effort to “touch base” with my core values and connect that with my work, my life and with all the interactions I have. With that, I hope to bring more meaningful connections and contributions to my work and at home."— Chunfeng “Breeze” DONG , Roche

"Thriving for me during this season starts with being intentional about what I say yes to and what I say no to. It means I have to check in with myself before I say yes to invitations to make sure I'm intentional about how I spend my energy. It means saying no to the invitations that aren't uplifting. I also spend time walking along the river to reset in nature."— Diane Wismer , New Measures, LLC

"The key to thriving is to reach out and nurture your connections. These allow you to feel supported and it also helps others feel purpose. By helping one person at a time we help change the world. So, thriving this season for me is to maintain those connections, even if it is a simple check in and a genuine interest, that is far worthwhile. Christmas and the festive period can be a lovely time but also can be lonely for some. Even with people around you, you can still feel lonely.?So reach out to someone today, connect, even if it’s a smile it can mean so much and go so much further than you will ever know."— Nuzhad Chagan , Let's Improve Workplace Wellbeing

In a world that can oftentimes seem stressful and polarizing, you can be a creative force that empowers people and our planet?to thrive—and that includes yourself.?I hope the voices of these Be Well Lead Well Pulse? Certified Guides encourage you to reconnect with what thriving means for you. Every time you do, your presence and energy will have a positive ripple effect in the lives of others. Because, despite our seeming differences and divisions across our planet, we are all deeply connected.

May you, your loved ones, and your teams have a beautiful holiday season, Renee