Expectations

Last weekend I visited Washington DC for the first time.  Yes, it took me this long to visit a place that has been only 4-5 hours driving distance from my home in NY and now NC.

We had a great time and what it brought up for me was the idea of expectations and how they effect our perception.  You see, I had very little expectation of what it would be like to visit DC.  Contrary to the “planner” in me, I had a short list of what sites I wanted to see but beyond that I did not do much research or have an itinerary. 

Sure I imagined what The Mall and Arlington would look like and had a map of the area, and of course photos of DC are everywhere, but I did not spend too much time thinking about it.

What was so wonderful about having little expectations?  For me it was being suprised by the beauty of the architecture, gardens we found without looking, delicious food we encountered whenever we were hungry (even the soft pretzels I missed from NYC) and the overall feeling of being in such an historic place! 

Here are some of my favorite photos…

 

Our Own Personal Brand

I came across a great article called Authentic Personal Branding .  This topic is something I talk about in one form or another in many of my workshops especially Getting Noticed, Known and Connected in the Getting Prepared section.

Branding is not just for business, it is the image we present to the world through our relationships, our work, our everyday lives.   It is the unique qualities we portray and how we live out what we value most.   Branding has to be authentic, not only in what we deliver but in how we deliver it. 

When I work with clients that are either building a business or seeking employment, there is a lot of fear and trepidation in “selling” ourselves.  If we think of it as branding instead – showcasing ourselves in a way that helps others see the true essense of who we are as individuals, and we are able to deliver it by consistent action and being true to our word, it could feel more effortless!

A great way to showcase who you are in a way that feels natural is getting involved in an organization you believe in.  That involvement could include volunteering for a project/event, leading a committee, accepting a board position in the organization or any other opportunity to give of yourself.  In this environment, you are “living” your brand by allowing your passion, drive, strengths and value to shine through example.

Take a Break

As an avid reader, I love it when I come across a book that so perfectly fits where some of my clients are in our work together, and where I often am in my life too!  One such book is The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr, particularly the strategy and importance of taking purposeful breaks throught our day.

You see, I am of the belief that productivity is of upmost importance.  Now that belief has been beneficial to me, but it limits me when I push through a project even when I am tired or disengaged – especially when working on the computer.   Now, when I feel my body or brain is ready for a break, I take it!   Since I work from home, my breaks may include taking a short walk (or just walking away from my desk), retreating to my deck or sunroom to just sit, have a snack, or pet my cat.   Sometimes my afternoon break even includes (gasp!) taking a quick nap! 

Giving myself permission to take breaks and do with them what I feel my body and brain needs in the moment to recharge, is incredibly freeing and exciting!   In fact, I took a week long break just this past week!

How often do you take a break?