Renee Giarrusso's Blog, page 5

It’s R U OK Day – Not feeling OK? Strategies To Help You Respond

September 12 is R U OK Day!

For me, I believe we should be checking in with others and ourselves every day.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 42.9% of Australians aged 16-85 years had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life, and anxiety was the most common group of 12-month mental disorders (17.2% of people aged 16-85 years).

Burnout, overwhelm, anxiety, and poor mental health can affect our well-being and life in every area. These are all things that can sometimes not be visibly seen, and therefore, we need to reach out to others and be open when others reach out to us.

Being a natural “giver’ in my work and home life, it’s sometimes hard to ask for help, let alone be open and sharing with where I’m at. There was a time when I had to learn the hard way. I was feeling extremely overwhelmed and hit with a health issue, and it was only when a close friend kept on my back on how I was really feeling that I broke down in uncontrollable tears and shared what was going on. For two days, I felt shocking, and then I pulled myself together and felt more grounded and calm than I had in a long time.

Sharing how we are feeling doesn't always cure what’s going on, but connection is a human need and having support and care from others counts for a lot.

What I find when checking in with many people, both in and out of the workplace, is that sometimes the response to the question “Are you OK?” can be a bit vanilla with responses like “I’m OK, I guess”, “Yeah, I’m hanging in there”, or the most common one, “I’m not bad, thanks”.

It’s too easy to accept those responses, and if you are on the receiving end, it’s just as easy to have an automated answer, but is that really working for you?

There is a lot of focus on asking, “Are you OK?” but not much focus on how we could or should respond to make the most of this kind of check in from others.

When someone asks if you are okay or how you are really doing, you have a few options for how to respond, depending on your comfort level and the relationship with the person asking. If you are suffering in any way and someone asks if you are okay, it can be challenging to know how to respond.

Here are a few ideas:

Say thank you: Always say thank you for asking: It doesn’t matter how you choose to respond; I believe it’s essential to acknowledge their concern. You can say something like, “Thanks for caring about me. It means a lot.”

Ask for support: If you feel open and comfortable seeking help from the person asking, you can let them know what you need. An example could be, “Thanks, I really appreciate your concern. Right now, I could use someone to talk to and a bit of support.”

Be open and honest: If you feel comfortable sharing, you can be open and tell them how you're feeling. You might say something like, “I appreciate you asking; thank you. I've been feeling a bit down lately, but I'm trying to work through it.”

Express gratitude: People reach out because they care and usually have good intentions. If you don't want to share your current mental state or whatever it is that is going on, you can still express gratitude for their concern. For example, you could say, “I appreciate your concern. It means a lot to me that you asked.”

Engage a professional: When you feel comfortable doing so, you can always mention that you're seeking support from a mental health professional. You could say, “I'm working with a therapist to help me through this difficult time.”

Deflect with empathy: Sometimes, you may not be open or ready to talk about your mental well-being. This is where you have every right to deflect the question. Make sure your delivery is polite and authentic. You might say something like, “I'm okay, thank you. How about you? How's everything going on your end?”

Find someone you trust and seek their support: If you feel like you need someone to talk to, consider reaching out to a friend, family member, or a professional you trust. You can tell the person who asked that you appreciate their concern and have someone you're comfortable talking to.

Make your boundaries clear: Boundaries are simply rules around what and what isn’t okay. If the person asking is not someone you want to discuss your well-being with, you need to set boundaries. You could say, “I prefer not to discuss my state right now, but I really do appreciate your checking in.”

I will say I am not an expert at this, but over the years, I’ve come to realise I always support others more than I do myself. This is not sustainable. We all need support in different ways and from different people. When people check in, it’s almost an insult to brush them off when all they are doing or offering is support.

We need to remember that it's essential to prioritise our well-being and comfort when responding to such questions. Whenever you feel overwhelmed or need support, don't hesitate to reach out to someone you trust or a professional. Our overall health is essential; seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Taking care of your mental health is a non-negotiable, and seeking help is a sign of strength and self-care.

Reach out to me if you need a chat or any support.

Lead and live limitlessly.

63. Working Through Adversity – Renée’s Health Journey

In this deeply personal solo episode of the Limitless Leaders Podcast, I thought I'd share my story of what has happened this year and my massive journey of healing. This episode is not just about my story, but about finding strength in adversity and the importance of mindset in navigating life’s unexpected turns.

I've had a lot of people ask me ‘What happened?', ‘How am I still working?', ‘How am I staying so optimistic?' and so much more.

Join me as I answer those questions and as we explore the gifts and lessons I've learned and the importance of mindset in overcoming life's toughest challenges. I open up about the fears, struggles, and triumphs I've experienced, and how I've managed to stay grounded through gratitude and purpose.

You can watch the podcast here, click the image below, or listen on your favourite platforms.

Key Take Aways:

From navigating the emotional and physical toll of chemotherapy to finding strength in gratitude, normalcy, and the support of loved ones, I hope this episode offers powerful insights for anyone going through adversity.

Having a strong support network can make a big difference – the vital role family, friends and medical professionals play in providing emotional and practical support.Find out what your purpose is, something that you love doing and really focus on that to maintain your optimism and fuel your resilience.Focusing on what you have, rather than what's missing, can help in coping with significant challenges and changes that you go through.You need to learn to receive support from others and accept help, even when it’s kind of a struggle.Maintaining a sense of normality through everyday activities can offer comfort and stabilityThere’s a crucial difference between optimism and positivity, with optimism involving hope for both the present and future.Embrace the gift of gratitude. Discover joy and look forward to the little things even if bigger plans fall through.Take a step back and be really mindful of what your thoughts are. Maintain a positive mindset during times of adversity, and stay optimistic about future plans and opportunities.

 

Enjoy This Podcast?

Leadership in changing times can be difficult, but you can adopt certain traits to get your team through it. You can also join mentorship programs to gain the skills you need.

Please post a review and share it! If you learned something by tuning into this podcast, do not hesitate to write a review and share it with your friends! The world needs more people with the drive and leadership qualities to make the world a better place. We need strong leadership skills and a learner’s attitude today more than ever.

To listen to the podcast, select your favourite link below.

Apple: https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnApple

Spotify: https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnSpotify

Android: https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnAndroid

 

Have any questions? You can contact me through these platforms:

Company websiteInstagramFacebookLinkedIn

To leading the future,

Harness Your Thoughts To Embrace Change And Transition

Change is the only constant in life, both in and out of the workplace. We all encounter shifting situations and new faces, whether these changes are imposed upon us or self-initiated.

While some resist change, others embrace it, a reaction largely determined by our intrinsic nature and past experiences. Certainty is a fundamental human need, making resistance to the unknown a natural response. Change often makes us uneasy, propelling us into uncertainty and away from the familiar. This uncertainty can stifle decision-making, bringing forth new choices that challenge our sense of stability. Many fail to realise that our perception and reaction to change are profoundly shaped by our thoughts.

Our mindset, beliefs, and attitudes shape our responses, either facilitating smooth transitions or creating obstacles. By understanding this connection, it allows us to develop strategies to manage change more effectively, fostering resilience and adaptability. By identifying and altering our thought patterns, we can transform our approach to change, making it a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth.

Our thoughts create the way we feel and our outcomes and actions.

“Change is hardest at the beginning, messiest in the middle and best at the end.”
– Robin S. Sharma

The power is in identifying and controlling our inner dialogue and the way we think about whatever change we may be facing.

I have worked with senior leaders and teams for almost 19 years. Here are a few tried-and-tested strategies for harnessing our thoughts for good when moving through change.

Mindset Matters:Fixed vs. Growth Mindset: Those with a growth mindset view change as an opportunity for learning and growth, while a fixed mindset can lead to fear and resistance. Embracing a growth mindset encourages us to see challenges as opportunities to develop new skills and gain valuable experiences. It transforms potential setbacks into stepping stones for success.Optimistic Thinking: Focusing on the positive aspects of change can reduce anxiety and increase motivation. Try reframing change as a positive force where we can shift our perspective from fear of the unknown to excitement about new possibilities.Belief Systems:Self-efficacy: This is all about believing in one's ability to handle change, which in turn enhances confidence and proactivity. When we trust in our capabilities and who we are, we are more likely to take decisive actions and move through change successfully.Locus of Control: Individuals with an internal locus of control feel they can influence outcomes, leading to more effective change management. This belief empowers us to take responsibility for our actions and their consequences, fostering a proactive approach to change.Emotional Regulation:Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness exercises or activities that bring peace can help manage the stress associated with change. Activities such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm and balance.Emotional Intelligence is all about identifying and managing one's emotions and understanding others' emotions, which can facilitate smoother transitions. Emotional intelligence helps us navigate interpersonal relationships during times of change, fostering empathy and effective communication. Take the time to know your emotions and triggers and those of those around you.Cognitive Strategies:Reframing: Changing the way we interpret a situation can shift our emotional response and behaviour. We can alter our perception and react more constructively by viewing change through a different lens. Look at change from all angles.Problem-Solving Skills: Developing effective problem-solving skills can reduce the uncertainty and fear of change. By breaking down challenges into manageable steps, we can tackle them systematically and confidently.Behavioural Responses:Proactivity: Taking initiative and planning can make change seem more manageable and within our grasp. Proactive behaviour involves anticipating potential obstacles and preparing strategies to overcome them. Look at obstacles as opportunities.Flexibility: Being adaptable and open to new experiences can ease the process of change. Flexibility allows us to adjust our plans and expectations as circumstances evolve, ensuring we remain resilient and resourceful.Our Support Network:Social Support: Leaning in on friends, family, and colleagues can provide emotional and practical support during times of change. A strong support network can offer encouragement, advice, and assistance, helping us transition smoothly through change.Professional Help: Seeking guidance from coaches and mentors can be valuable. Professional support can provide expert insights and strategies for managing change, enhancing our ability to adapt and thrive.

Change is inevitable. Whether it's a role change, company change, personal change or a transitional forced upon us, remember that our thoughts play a crucial role in shaping how we experience and respond. By Adopting a positive mindset, leveraging our belief systems, regulating our emotions, employing cognitive strategies, and engaging in proactive behaviours, we can transform change into an opportunity for growth and development. Additionally, drawing on support systems can further bolster our resilience and adaptability, enabling us to navigate change confidently and gracefully.

62. The Courage To Be You with Joe Pane

Joining us in this podcast episode is Joe Pane, the Director of JP Coaching and Training Pty Ltd. Joe is an expert in emotional fitness, specializing in group trainings and keynotes.

He is the author of the insightful book, “Courage To Be You – Your Guide To Mastering Uncertainty,” which introduces the Emotional Fitness Formula (EFF). This transformative approach is built on five core principles: Identity, Life Stages, Values, Emotional Flexibility, and Perspective.

You can watch the podcast here, click the image below, or listen on your favourite platforms.

 

Key Take Aways:

Joe's work is dedicated to helping individuals redefine their relationship with uncertainty, empowering them to lead more resilient and fulfilling lives.

Consistency is the key component of trust.The importance of always showing up.No matter what challenge we go through, hold on and you'll work it out.What defines us, owns us – the power of identity.Embrace all things with a healthy level of enthusiasm.Emotions don't respond to facts. They only respond to our interpretation of the facts.The outer conditions of our lives are an echo of who we have been.Success has 3 ingredients – Rejection, Judgement and Failure

Contact Joe Pane:

Joe Pane Website

Joe Pane on LinkedIn

Joe Pane on Instagram

Enjoy This Podcast?

Leadership in changing times can be difficult, but you can adopt certain traits to get your team through it. You can also join mentorship programs to gain the skills you need.

Please post a review and share it! If you learned something by tuning into this podcast, do not hesitate to write a review and share it with your friends! The world needs more people with the drive and leadership qualities to make the world a better place. We need strong leadership skills and a learner’s attitude today more than ever.

For more updates and episodes, subscribe to the Limitless Leaders podcast page!

To listen to the podcast, select your favourite link below.

Apple: https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnApple

Spotify https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnSpotify

Google https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnGoogle

Android https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnAndroid

Have any questions? You can contact me through these platforms:

Company website   Instagram   Facebook   LinkedIn   

To leading the future,

Leading with Clarity: How Setting Expectations Transforms Teams

We all know we need to review and renew expectations of ourselves and our team regularly.

Investing in the time to do this is often missed.

We can get caught up in the ‘doing’ of leading and working and fail to make what I call ‘being’ where we reflect and reset the why and how we do what we do.

We need to focus on the fundamental practice of setting clear expectations for ourselves and our team, no matter the team size.

Establishing and communicating expectations is vital for fostering a productive, transparent, and motivated work environment.

In this week’s blog, I’ll explore and expand on why this practice is vital and how you can effectively implement it within your business or the organisation you work within.

Why Setting Expectations Matters:

Clarity and Direction: Clear expectations provide a roadmap for our team, guiding them on what needs to be achieved and how. This direction helps align individual goals with the broader objectives and vision of your business or organisation.

Accountability and Responsibility: When expectations are clear and known, team members understand their responsibilities and the standards they are held to. This awareness promotes accountability and ensures that everyone is contributing their fair share.

Motivation and Engagement: Knowing what is expected helps individuals (including leaders) feel more secure in their roles. It reduces uncertainty and stress, allowing them to focus on their tasks confidently and enthusiastically.

Performance Measurement: Clear expectations serve as benchmarks for evaluating performance. They enable leaders to provide constructive feedback based on defined criteria, essential for professional growth and improvement.

Remember, people do what is ‘inspected, not expected’.

Improved Communication: Open discussions about expectations foster a culture of transparency and trust. It encourages open communication, where employees feel comfortable voicing their concerns and ideas. Communication is the key to deep and meaningful relationships and interactions.

For many years I have included the below framework in leadership and team programs.

To effectively set and align expectations within your team, consider conducting workshops that encourage open dialogue and mutual understanding. Simply work through the questions as a team and flipchart the responses. You can also use this framework 1:1, but from experience, when done collaboratively, this can build clarity, connection, and shared accountability.

Here are some practical questions to guide these sessions:

What is your expectation of your team?

Define the overall goals and standards you expect the team to achieve.Discuss the team’s collective responsibilities and how they contribute to the company’s objectives.Clarify the behavioural and performance standards expected from the team.

What is their expectation of you?

Encourage team members to articulate what they need from you as a leader to succeed.Discuss how you can support them in terms of resources, guidance, and feedback.Explore ways to enhance your leadership approach to meet their needs better.

As a leader, you need to meet these expectations.

Clearly define your role and responsibilities from the outset.Ensure that you comprehensively understand what is expected in your position, including specific tasks, deadlines, and performance standards.Regularly update your team on your progress, challenges, and any support you might need.

What is your expectation of each individual?

Identify specific goals and responsibilities for each team member based on their role.Set clear, achievable targets and deadlines tailored to individual capacities and expertise.Discuss the expected contribution of each member to the team’s success.Know each person’s strengths and motivations and tap into these.

What is their expectation of their role?

Ask team members to express what they believe their role entails and how they can add value.Discuss their career aspirations and how their current role aligns with these goals.Explore any gaps between their perception of the role and your expectations and address them collaboratively.

Gaining insights is great, but the magic is in bringing these insights to life.
Don’t make workshops a “sugar hit”; instead, make them an experience.

Conduct regular check-ins (1:1 Coaching) to revisit and refine expectations as needed. This ensures that everyone remains aligned and that any evolving needs or challenges are addressed promptly.

Keep a written record of the agreed-upon expectations. This serves as a reference point for both parties and helps track progress and accountability.

Establish a robust feedback mechanism where positive achievements and improvement areas are discussed. This will foster continuous development and reinforce the importance of meeting expectations.

Invest in training programs that help employees meet or exceed expectations. This could include skill development workshops, leadership training, or technical courses relevant to their roles.

Setting expectations for all involved is key to collaboration, connection and performance.

You can create a cohesive, motivated, and high-performing team by fostering open communication and mutual understanding.

I’d love to hear how you progress using the framework!

Lead to be limitless!

61. Activate Your Strengths – Unstuck Your Career with Charlotte Blair

I'm thrilled to share with you this episode with Charlotte Blair, one of the longest established and most experienced Gallup Accredited strengths coaches in Australia.

Charlotte is a founding partner of The Strengths Partners and works with Individuals, Managers and teams across the world to help them discover and use their strengths to meet their business and personal goals. She is also the author of a great book entitled, “Career Unstuck: How to Play to Your Strengths To Find Freedom and Purpose in Your Work Again”.

Helping people get unstuck and love work again is Charlotte's focus. And she knows this through discovering one strengths, shifting mindsets, and leveraging some useful tools and frameworks, and finding a cheer squad to support you.

You can watch the podcast here, click the image below, or listen on your favourite platforms.

 

Key Take Aways:

We discussed the importance of identifying your strengths and taking action to shift the dial and get your career unstuck.

Don't be afraid to give something a go.If you don't ask you don't get.Discover and focus on your strengths and use these to mitigate your weaknesses.We are 3 times more likely to live a happier life if we use our strengths.You need to be able to identify your strengths and understand the role that they play.Believe in yourself, and celebrate what makes you, you.Don’t let other people discourage you in your path towards success.Don’t measure your success in comparison to others.

Contact Charlotte Blair:

The Strengths Partners Website

Charlotte Blair Website

Charlotte Blair on LinkedIn

Enjoy This Podcast?

Leadership in changing times can be difficult, but you can adopt certain traits to get your team through it. You can also join mentorship programs to gain the skills you need.

Please post a review and share it! If you learned something by tuning into this podcast, do not hesitate to write a review and share it with your friends! The world needs more people with the drive and leadership qualities to make the world a better place. We need strong leadership skills and a learner’s attitude today more than ever.

For more updates and episodes, subscribe to the Limitless Leaders podcast page!

To listen to the podcast, select your favourite link below.

Apple: https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnApple

Spotify https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnSpotify

Google https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnGoogle

Android https://www.reneegiarrusso.com/PodcastOnAndroid

Have any questions? You can contact me through these platforms:

Company website   Instagram   Facebook   LinkedIn   

To leading the future,

Navigating Limitless Leadership: Embracing Spirituality in the Corporate World

In the ever-changing world of corporate leadership, the concept of spirituality may seem out of place. Along with the pandemic, AI and recently being diagnosed with breast cancer, it is something I never thought I’d be experiencing, let alone sharing my thoughts through writing and research.

Traditionally, discussions of spirituality have been narrowly focused on personal or religious realms, separate from our professional lives.

But never say never; as the landscape of leadership continues to evolve, there is a growing recognition of the importance of spirituality in guiding and shaping effective leadership practices.

For over 18 years, my team and I have worked with hundreds of leaders and teams, creating “Limitless Leadership,” that is, leadership of self and teams where we learn, unlearn, relearn, and evolve. Limitless Leaders continually learn and tap into the 5 Dimensions of Energy being: spiritual, mental, physical, social, and emotional energy.

Spirituality can mean different things to everyone, but for me, it’s about having a higher purpose, connecting to oneself and others, and coming from a place of empathy and compassion.

But what exactly does it mean to be a spiritual leader in the corporate world? And how can incorporating spiritual principles enhance your leadership effectiveness? These are questions worth exploring as we delve into the role of spirituality in corporate leadership.

At its core, spirituality transcends religious affiliations and encompasses a broader sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to something greater than oneself. It encompasses values such as compassion, empathy, integrity, and mindfulness, which are integral to effective leadership in any setting.

Spiritual leadership emphasises the importance of leading with authenticity, compassion, and a sense of higher purpose, rather than simply focusing on bottom line profit or organisational goals and strategy.

So, are you a spiritual leader?

Here are some questions I’ve shaped to help you reflect:

What is your leadership purpose?

Take a moment to reflect on your deeper purpose as a leader. Beyond achieving business plans and objectives, what drives you to lead? Connecting with a sense of purpose can provide clarity and inspiration, guiding your actions with a greater sense of meaning and fulfilment.

How do you cultivate authenticity in your leadership?

I believe authenticity is a cornerstone of spiritual leadership. Are you able to show up as your true self in your leadership role? Do you lead with transparency, honesty, and vulnerability? When you lead with your authentic self, I believe this can foster trust and rapport with your team, creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Are you practising compassion and empathy?

Empathy and compassion are essential qualities of spiritual leadership.
Do you take the time to understand your team's perspectives and emotions? How do you demonstrate care and concern for their well-being? By practising empathy and compassion, you can create a culture of support and belonging within your organisation.

How do you integrate mindfulness into your leadership practices?

Mindfulness involves being fully present and engaged in the moment, without judgment or distraction. Do you incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation, reflection, or conscious breathing, into your leadership? Mindfulness can help you stay grounded, focused, and resilient amidst the challenges of leadership.

Are you fostering a sense of community and connection?

Spiritual leadership focuses on the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection within your workplace. Do you try to build relationships and create opportunities for collaboration and teamwork? By fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose, you inspire greater engagement and commitment from your team.

“Always put people, before process, before progress”.

You may wonder, “What are the benefits of bringing spirituality into my leadership?”

I have a few insights into what I have seen first-hand using the above strategies with my team and clients and working with numerous companies to bring this in.

Enhanced Decision-Making: Spiritual leaders often make decisions guided by principles of integrity, ethics, and values, rather than solely focusing on short-term gains. By aligning decisions with deeper values and purpose, they create a more sustainable and ethical approach to leadership. Bringing in logic, heart (compassion) and intuition I’ve seen many leaders making more balanced and impactful decisions.

Resilience and Well-Being: Incorporating spiritual practices such as mindfulness and self-care can enhance leaders' resilience and well-being. By looking after your own well-being, you may be better equipped to navigate challenges and inspire your teams to do the same.

Inspiring Others: Spiritual leaders lead by example, inspiring others to embrace their authentic selves and cultivate their own purpose and meaning. Embodying values such as authenticity, empathy, and compassion create a ripple effect that fosters positive change and transformation within their workplaces.

I have always been a spiritual person, so it excites me that there is finally an interest in and need for the role of spirituality in corporate leadership. Remember, it is not about imposing religious beliefs or dogma but rather about embracing authenticity, compassion, mindfulness, and purpose.

When we bring these qualities into our leadership practices, we can create more meaningful and fulfilling work environments, inspire greater team engagement and commitment, and ultimately drive sustainable success for our business or workplace.

So, are you a spiritual leader? This is a question worth considering as you continue your Limitless Leadership journey.

Lead to be limitless!

Unveiling the Magic of Relearning: Transformative Insights for Personal and Professional Growth

This week’s blog is a personal one.

Four weeks ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 HER2positive Breast Cancer.

This has come as an absolute shock.

For the last four years, I’ve seen my beautiful younger sister, Lyndelle, fight this terrible disease. She is now on the other side of it and facing more health challenges. I have had all the mandatory breast screening tests, with all tests being clear, even last December.

For a few weeks in March, I’d had a tender right armpit, thinking maybe I was run down. My intuition kept nagging at me to have it checked, so I asked my doctor on the way out of a check-up (lucky I did). After an ultrasound and biopsy, cancer was found in my right breast and 20 lymph nodes. It was my strong intuition to have it looked at, which resulted in numerous tests and a diagnosis within five days.

As I always say, always trust your gut. In this instance, it most probably saved my life.

I now face six months of chemotherapy (one down), surgery, 18 rounds of another chemotherapy and six months of radiation. This has turned my world upside down, as have my family and close friends. I still feel as though someone is going to wake me up from a bad dream. It’s something I thought I would never go through.

I am optimistic that I will beat this, and I have been overwhelmed by all the support and love from family, friends, and clients. My support network has been amazing, and I’m finally having to ask for a bit of help, something very unfamiliar to me, but I am getting there.

Being a high-functioning person, it’s taken me being very sick six days post-chemo to know things need to change. I am now working through unlearning the way I do work and life.

The first thing my team and I did was remove night events charity work and put a pause on the committees and a board I was on. International programs will now be run virtually (the gift of relearning in Covid), and I will be working at a slower pace the week after each chemo.

Some people have questioned this, and my response is that the work I do with clients I love gives me purpose and contribution, and I will continue to do that. Along with my amazing team, we will continue designing and running all our transformational programs and 1:1 Leadership and business coaching.

It’s easy to learn a rhythm of work and life; it’s more challenging to relearn the way we do this. In my case, relearning work and life to slow down and find more balance is the gift of this not-so-great experience.

In life and the workplace, the journey of learning is perpetual. However, what sets individuals and workplaces apart is their willingness and ability to relearn—to embrace new perspectives, skills, and knowledge.

“Relearning is the compass guiding us through uncharted territories, illuminating new paths of growth and discovery.”

Relearning is not merely about learning new information but involves unlearning outdated practices, working methods and beliefs while adapting to evolving circumstances.

I think relearning our personal and professional ways can provide transformative insights and growth.

Here is what I have gleaned so far:

Adaptability as a Key Competency:

In today's fast-paced world, adaptability has emerged as a non-negotiable competency for individuals and workplaces. Embodying the concept of relearning fosters adaptability by encouraging openness to change and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
Individuals who value relearning are better equipped to navigate uncertainty, seize new opportunities, and thrive in dynamic environments.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

Relearning triggers continuous improvement and innovation, driving progress and competitiveness. When we revisit existing processes, methodologies, and approaches, individuals and teams can identify areas for enhancement and innovation.
Workplaces that foster a culture of relearning can create a dynamic environment where experimentation and creativity flourish, leading to breakthroughs and advancements.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges:

Resilience is built upon the foundation of adaptability and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.
The Gift of Resilience, which I share in my book Gift Mindset, is all about embracing relearning to equip individuals with the resilience to confront challenges and setbacks with a growth mindset.
Rather than viewing obstacles as roadblocks, individuals prioritising relearning perceive them as opportunities for growth and development, fostering resilience in the face of adversity. This is what the Gift Mindset is all about learning, from the challenging people and situations we encounter.

Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills:

Relearning expands our problem-solving ability by introducing new perspectives and approaches.
Through exposure to diverse ideas and methodologies, we can gain insights that enable us to tackle complex problems more effectively. By encouraging relearning, workplaces and leaders can empower their employees to adopt a proactive approach to problem-solving, driving innovation and efficiency.

Cultivating a Culture of Learning:

Embracing relearning fosters a culture of continuous learning where curiosity and exploration are encouraged.

Leaders, I believe, play a pivotal role in cultivating a learning culture by modelling the importance of relearning and providing resources and support for professional development. Workplaces focusing on relearning as a core value attract and retain top talent, as individuals are drawn to environments that foster growth and learning opportunities.

For years, I have worked within hundreds of organisations across multiple levels and teams, teaching people to learn, relearn, and constantly evolve their leadership of themselves and others.

My journey to relearning many things has only just begun and is and will be a transformative journey that transcends boundaries between personal and professional development. By embracing relearning, we can adapt to change, drive innovation, build resilience, enhance problem-solving skills, and cultivate a culture of continuous learning.

As we navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving world, the ability to relearn becomes not only a competitive advantage but also a cornerstone of success and fulfilment in both life and the workplace.

Relearning has an element of magic to it. It’s full of possibility, growth and a deeper connection to oneself and others.

I look forward to sharing my journey and I’d love to hear your feedback and thoughts on how you can foster a culture of learning within your workplace.

Lead to be limitless!

60. Mastering Self-Control – You Are In Charge with Dr. Jane Foster

This episode was recorded just before my diagnosis and it is helping me get through my healing journey and with getting used to a new normal for life at the moment. No matter where you are or what you’re going through right now, this podcast is relevant for anyone going through change whether it’s in the workplace or life.

The roads you’ve travelled may influence you, but they don’t have to define you. With self-control, you are in charge.

Dr. Jane Foster, our guest for this podcast episode, believes that we may be unable to control people and circumstances, but we can always learn to control how we respond to them.

Dr. Foster is the Founder and Director of Emotional Resilience Training. She’s also an educator, researcher, presenter, and author of It’s in Your Hands: Your Steering Wheel, Your Choice. She holds a PhD in Health and Education and is qualified in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shiatsu, and Yoga.

You can watch the podcast here, click the image below, or listen on your favourite platforms.

 

Key Take Aways:

We delved into Dr. Foster’s experience and how it motivated her to develop a universal language that replaces blame, judgment, and retaliation with responsibility, empathy, and compassion.

Taking responsibility positively impacts self-esteem and self-regulationPeople who say or do hurtful things are the ones on a rough road.Just because you are alone on your road doesn’t mean you are going in the wrong direction.Proactive strategies to help build emotional resilience, manage daily stresses, successfully change perspectives and create new neural pathwaysUsing metaphors to gain objectivityIntroducing the steering wheel replaces blame with responsibility and controlDon’t wish for smoother roads. Aim for greater skills to handle all conditions.Empowering people with the tools and confidence to lead from within.

 

Contact Dr. Jane Foster:

Emotional Resilience Website

Emotional Resilience on Instagram

Dr Jane Foster on LinkedIn

Enjoy This Podcast?

Leadership in changing times can be difficult, but you can adopt certain traits to get your team through it. You can also join mentorship programs to gain the skills you need.

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To leading the future,

Renée

Gratitude Unlocks The Fullness Of Life

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” – Melody Beattie

Gratitude, praise, and recognition take various forms, such as positive feedback, a thank-you note, or a token of appreciation like a lunch invitation.

With hybrid work models here to stay, integrating gratitude into real-time interactions has become vital.

Research underscores the importance of appreciation in fostering strong workplace relationships. Studies show a 61% decrease in job turnover among those who feel valued.

Genuine gratitude, given without ulterior motives, is free and deeply impactful.

Rooted in our evolutionary history and childhood development, gratitude is primarily ‘other-oriented’, emphasising appreciation for the actions and support of others. It serves as a catalyst for fostering a culture of connection and collaboration in the workplace.

Practising gratitude involves actions, feelings, and mindset shifts, encouraging individuals to appreciate goodness and pay it forward.

Incorporating gratitude into workplace culture strengthens relationships and promotes generosity and kindness.

With all the pressures of a modern work culture, gratitude can often be overlooked. However, its implementation is needed to maintain employee engagement and well-being.

Understanding how individuals express and receive gratitude is essential for leaders cultivating a culture of appreciation. Expressing genuine gratitude fosters a sense of belonging and reinforces the importance of each team member’s contributions.

Research demonstrates the myriad benefits of gratitude, spanning physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Individuals who practice gratitude consistently report enhanced well-being and social connections.

Gratitude serves as a social emotion, strengthening relationships by acknowledging the support received from others. While thankfulness may be internal, gratitude is typically directed outward, emphasising reciprocity and connection.

Simple gestures, such as spontaneous compliments or expressions of gratitude, can profoundly impact workplace culture. Creating opportunities for team members to share appreciation fosters a positive and collaborative work environment.

By amplifying practices that foster appreciation and connection, organisations can cultivate a culture that attracts and retains talent.

It only takes a moment to be grateful.

Ideas to unwrap the Gift of Gratitude:Compliment work colleagues on the fly; don’t always wait until the time is right.Let a colleague know what they mean to you.Be thankful for the growth opportunity challenges bring.Be grateful for learning something new and share this with others.Invest in moments to be thankful for – this will ensure you create a consistent loop of building, expressing, and living the Gift of Gratitude.Individually or as a team, kick-off team catch-ups with the question, “Who and what are you grateful for?”For every negative in conversations or your thoughts, come up with three positives; this is called the 3:1 ratio.Introduce “Win Wednesdays,” where each team member shares a win, big or small, and who and what helped them achieve it.Acknowledge the silver lining or the Gift in all situations and what it has taught you.

Now is the time to amplify workplace practices that may have been taken for granted, such as the simple act of gratitude and appreciation. Gratitude is the conduit to strong and connected relationships and a collaborative culture people want to be a part of.

Lead to be Limitless…