Inspiration into Action November 2000

INSPIRATION INTO ACTION

Holidays or Holi-Daze?

November 2000

The COO was burning out and feeling isolated. The last few years had been a roller coaster ride in the high tech industry. We coached him on work-life balance and examined what worked well and what needed working on in the business. We strengthened the executive team with group coaching so they could more effectively support one another. Today the COO and his peers are more resilient and able to navigate the company and industry challenges successfully.

The startup staff suffered from low morale, poor communications and high stress.The director frequently "blew up" at his employees in public. They felt discouraged and powerless. With our help these people turned themselves aroundÑthey learned to communicate and cooperate effectively, and felt fulfilled and joyful at work. The manager learned to lead by example and work with his employees to inspire performance. Employees took initiative and meetings became productive and energizing. Bottom line: absenteeism decreased, internal and external customers were happier and the organization saved money.

Are you trying to rally the troops for one last push before year end? Are you scrambling to get out last quarter reports, ship that new product, make one more VC pitch, figure out employee bonuses or strategize for 2001-Q1? Are you reviewing your 2000 programs and services to justify your actions to your board? It's that wonderful and sometimes challenging time of the year.

We are into the season of gratitude (Thanksgiving), celebration (Hanukkah, Christmas and Solstice) and new beginnings (New Year). The real New Millennium is almost upon us. To avoid having a year like these clients, here are some holistic tips to keep your professional and personal life from tipping over:

PURPOSE: With your team or co-workers, revisit your organizationÕs mission and purpose. Assess how your projects, programs and activities have aligned with your mission. How well have you done in each of these areasÑpeople, planet and profit (human capital, natural capital and economic capital)? What were the gains? What were the losses? What are the learnings? Take time to with loved ones to discuss what is meaningful to each of you this holiday season. Do you want to have fun, get away, do community service or worship together? Do you want to see all the relatives or have quiet time alone? Together, declare an intention that integrates your life purpose and values, and commit to celebrating that intention.

WORK/LIFE BALANCE: How are you juggling the different aspects of your professional/personal life? Do you see things as demands or as joys? How is your energy level closing out the 4th quarter? Are you ready for the stretcher or will you dance your way to New Year's Eve? Which areas feel solid? Which areas need your attention? If youÕre feeling depleted, book some R&R and calendar some sessions with a coach to help you get on track.

RENEW: Honor yourself and your relationships in the workplace and among family and friends. Especially with those you've had some challenging or downright difficult times, stretch yourself to acknowledge the other person's good intentions. Commit to doing your part to build up the Emotional Trust Account.

CELEBRATE: On your own and with co-workers and family, reflect upon this past year and acknowledge that for which you are grateful. It can be your health, people, place, job/business, events, situations, a star, the sun, the Earth, or the smile on a person's face. Where difficulties arose, look for the silver lining and acknowledge the lessons. Then celebrate these blessings and congratulate yourself for turning problems into opportunities!

ANTICIPATE: What are three business/professional areas or goals you want to focus on in the real 2001 Millennium? What are three personal areas or goals you want to address next year? Which of your core values needs attention in order to reach those goals? How will you enjoy the process as much as the achievement? Here are your coaching inquiries for the season: Who or what inspires you? How can you stay on track with your purpose and your organization and ensure that your holidays don't become holidaze? How will you inspire someone else?

With warm regards for a healthy, happy holiday season,

Light and Laughter until next time,

Barbara Chan

If you want to learn how to bring purpose, vision, balance, renewal and celebration into your leadership or organizational dynamics, send mailto:inspired@barbarachan.com.

Inspiration into Action
Barbara Chan Consulting Group
510-233-0580
510-231-8919 fax