I was perusing the current issue of Newsweek magazine (12/24/12) and came across an article about New Year's resolutions. You know what Number 1 is? HAVE MORE FUN! And Number 2? RELAX AND REDUCE STRESS! (Sources: University of Scranton, Journal of Clinical Psychology and International's Caravan (R) on behalf of Ameritrade.)
So, to paraphrase a line from an old song, there's nothing to it but to do it!
In 2013 (and beyond) take a moment for yourself, your family, your co-workers and colleagues and find your true fun self and that of others and savor the experience. This having more fun thing is a goal that can be achieved and I sure plan to give it my best effort.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Lagniappe
I have probably posted before about lagniappe. It is one of my favorite words and ideas and I first learned about it when I lived in New Orleans. In short, it means something given or obtained by way of good measure, as in something extra and unexpected.
What better idea to incorporate at this time of year, if not all year long. And the something extra does not even have to be something tangible, such as a flower or piece of chocolate or whatever you might be appropriate to the situation. It could be something as simple as looking someone right in the face, holding their gaze, and saying "Thank You" or "Well Done", when they least expect it.
In any event, when you are with a colleague, a customer, a friend, a family member or a loved one, think about offering them a little lagniappe from time to time. It's a good thing.
What better idea to incorporate at this time of year, if not all year long. And the something extra does not even have to be something tangible, such as a flower or piece of chocolate or whatever you might be appropriate to the situation. It could be something as simple as looking someone right in the face, holding their gaze, and saying "Thank You" or "Well Done", when they least expect it.
In any event, when you are with a colleague, a customer, a friend, a family member or a loved one, think about offering them a little lagniappe from time to time. It's a good thing.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Random Acts of Kindness
I found this on Facebook posted by my wonderful cousin Katie Cahnmann.
Today I facilitated a group focused on "Random Acts of Kindness." We had a discussion about doing for others and giving to others solely out of the goodness of your heart without expecting anything in return. Then I share examples and am challenging my students to go out into the community and do random acts of kindness.
Before leaving they will hand the person a card that reads: "Smile! You've just been tagged and now you're it. Someone reached out to you with an anonymous act of kindness. Now it's your turn to do the same. Do something nice for someone, leave this card behind, and keep the spirit going."
I challenge you all to do the same. Let this be the season of giving and let us all learn to Pay It Forward. For all you parents out there, this is a great lesson to teach your children...
Today I facilitated a group focused on "Random Acts of Kindness." We had a discussion about doing for others and giving to others solely out of the goodness of your heart without expecting anything in return. Then I share examples and am challenging my students to go out into the community and do random acts of kindness.
Before leaving they will hand the person a card that reads: "Smile! You've just been tagged and now you're it. Someone reached out to you with an anonymous act of kindness. Now it's your turn to do the same. Do something nice for someone, leave this card behind, and keep the spirit going."
I challenge you all to do the same. Let this be the season of giving and let us all learn to Pay It Forward. For all you parents out there, this is a great lesson to teach your children...
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Desktop/Desktop Match Game
I've been gone for a long while and wasn't sure about coming back, but then I had a thought about a game and decided to post it and see what develops.
Here's the game and it is easy. See who can best make the wallpaper/background on your PC/Mac match your physical desktop (where you do your work) configuration. (I still remember when these were called desktop systems, hence the title of the game.) Points awarded for accuracy, imagination, whimsy, and maybe even just for participation. Season themes encouraged (depending on when you play).
As always I invite you to contribute your own ideas for humor at work. I have already pretty much plumbed the depths of my creativity on this front :)
Here's the game and it is easy. See who can best make the wallpaper/background on your PC/Mac match your physical desktop (where you do your work) configuration. (I still remember when these were called desktop systems, hence the title of the game.) Points awarded for accuracy, imagination, whimsy, and maybe even just for participation. Season themes encouraged (depending on when you play).
As always I invite you to contribute your own ideas for humor at work. I have already pretty much plumbed the depths of my creativity on this front :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)