communication
The Surprising Thing Authentic People Do (That You Probably Don’t)

The Surprising Thing Authentic People Do (That You Probably Don’t)

Amongst people at dinner parties, networking events, and behind the closed door of my office, I hear, “I don’t want drama. I want honesty. I dislike fakey-fake.” Then invariably I hear this declaration from one of the people I just described, in response to some...

The Overwhelm Cure: Using the Positive Power of No

The Overwhelm Cure: Using the Positive Power of No

I truly could not be more excited to be offering this workshop, The Overwhelm Cure: Using the Positive Power of "No". It is designed to make a profound and immediate impact on managing stress and increasing joy by knowing how, when, and why to say "no" (while still...

Do You Need to Be Right?

Do You Need to Be Right?

The motivation is clear: it can feel so good, so powerful to be "right." But is it really worth it? What do you gain? The truth is: you can pursue being right but at the cost of being unhappy. Basically, if you approach conversations, dialogue, or arguments with the...

5 Ways Speaking Up Makes Our Lives Better

5 Ways Speaking Up Makes Our Lives Better

Yesterday I had the opportunity to co-facilitate a discussion on the theme “Dare to Speak Up and Be Heard” with the organization, Women Standing Together. It was a great group of interesting, competent, accomplished women. Still, most agreed on one thing: it’s too...

Common Ways Women Undermine Their Words

Common Ways Women Undermine Their Words

"I'm sorry, Mom. These muffins are really messy," said my 3-year-old daughter a few mornings ago. It was clear she wasn't apologizing for making a mess. She was really saying, "I hate to tell you this, but these muffins you made crumble really easily." My daughter...

Mind Your Own Business, For Your Own Sake

Mind Your Own Business, For Your Own Sake

I spend a lot of my day encouraging people to bravely and effectively speak their truths, which makes it a little weird to have this post devoted to the following message: There are lots of times when you should really shut up. I believe our words, time, emotions, and...

What Could You Gain by Becoming Effectively Frank™?

What Could You Gain by Becoming Effectively Frank™?

What if you had the ability to say with clarity, kindness, and confidence the things you really need to say? How would your life be different? How much easier would it be? How much time, energy, and frustration would be saved? I believe that we can all do better with...

Want Better Communication? Stop Pushing Buttons

Want Better Communication? Stop Pushing Buttons

I’m around little kids a lot these days. It’s amazing how early and thoroughly they learn to push our buttons. They know our weaknesses, and they aren’t afraid to use them. A very convincing cry, some irritating whining, or even a guilt trip. Man, they are good. I try...