The day my son Andrew left for Virginia Tech (his brother Tom was already there), I went for my morning walk around Lake Thoreau in Reston. A neighbor joined me, and when she heard both boys were at college, she asked…
Browsing CategoryThe Better Newsletter
The Good Life vs A Good Life – The Better Newsletter #80
Years ago, I was exploring the Morro Bay waterfront on an Easter Sunday. Three of the most famous restaurants were packed—lines out the door.
Turn Reasons Into Results – The Better Newsletter #79
Someone got in touch with me recently and said she has wanted to write a book for years.
I said. “What’s been keeping you from writing?”
“Well you know, I’ve been busy and
What’s Your Moonshot? – The Better Newsletter #78
At a recent event, a founder told me she was feeling lost after selling her company. “I had a nice exit… but now what?” she said.
I asked, “What used to light you up?”
Go Ahead. You First. – The Better Newsletter #77
Have you ever driven California’s spectacular Pacific Coast Highway? If so, you’re familiar with its many hairpin turns.
In the day, you can see what’s ahead and adapt accordingly. Unfortunately, I didn’t get there during the day, I got there at dusk.
From Mid-Life Crisis to Mid-Life Clarity – The Better Newsletter #76
Years ago, when I announced at a National Press Club event that I was taking my business on the road for my “Year by the Water,” most people burst into applause and said, “Take me with you!”
However, two people pulled me aside to express their concern.
One asked, “Are you having a midlife crisis?”
Stop Bringing Your Boss Home – The Better Newsletter #54
Years ago, I presented a Tongue Fu! seminar about conflict resolution and put up a slide with my adaptation of Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote which said, ‘No one can make us mad without our consent.’ A woman raised her hand and said, “I agree because I’ve lived through it.
Banish Boring Breakouts – The Better Newsletter #75
Instead of leading meetings and virtual events that fall flat, I suggested building in connection opportunities with breakout sessions, so your participants feel seen, heard and valued as part of the community.
But here’s the thing—breakouts can be game-changers or total time-wasters.
You’re Now Free to Forget – The Better Newsletter #74
As Emcee of the Maui Writers Conference, I walked the beach every morning. One morning, I saw Pulitzer-Prize winning author Frank McCourt (Angela’s Ashes) writing away on two high-school composition notebooks… I was intrigued and asked, “Frank, quick question, what are you doing?”
Show Don’t Tell – The Better Newsletter #73
Years ago, I judged a pitch competition called The Dolphin Tank. I reviewed the business plans the night before, including one for a hook you put in your car to put your purse on…