Insights & Observations

Keeping the Momentum Tip # 11 & 12

2010-11-04T20:17:00.000-07:00

Tip #11 for Keeping the Momentum may sound simple, yet there is so much more to it. So I encourage you to...

Be thankful! Yes that is right. Gratitude, combined with acceptance and appreciation, is a powerful ingredient to keeping momentum.

Being thankful is an act, a mindset and a way of being that promotes a prosperity consciousness. The more you are thankful, the more you have to be thankful for in all areas of your life.

And with Tip #12 for Keeping the Momentum, you'll find greater success, joy and ease in your life when you...

Master your moments. Momentum is based on what we do, how we think and the way we choose to be in each moment.

Since moment is the root of momentum, it makes sense. Yet with the complexity and pace of life, technology, world events and...it can be easy to get lost in the past, worry about the future and forget to focus on the moment at hand. Mindfulness, practicing the presence, along with the previous 11 tips are ways to keep your focus on what is at hand in the moment. This ensures the optimal, appropriate response for yourself and all involved.

Bonus ~ for keeping your momentum: all of the Top 12 Tips for Keeping the Momentum are available as a one page, suitable for framing gift for you. All you have to do is send an e-mail with Top 12 Tips for Keeping the Momentum in the subject line to info [at] ASystemthatWorks [dot] com.

Here's to keeping the momentum for great success with all of your endeavors.

In Gratitude & Appreciation,

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip #10

2010-10-25T18:04:00.000-07:00

Keeping the Momentum Tip # 10 fits in well with the current season, it's fall in the USA.

Understand your rhythms and cycles. The ebb and flow of life can affect your momentum. Some things naturally take more time than others.

Everyone has their natural way for doing things. Trust yourself and trust what you know to be true for you. Of course, this doesn't mean you can't be flexible.

Keeping the Momentum...Naturally!

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip #9

2010-10-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

As we continue exploring the Top Tips for Keeping the Momentum Tip #9 is:

Open to new ideas. Be aware of your thoughts and of what is going on around you. Stop, look and listen are basic guidelines for picking up ideas and tips to add to or enhance what you are already doing.

As I reflect on this tip, I am reminded of the quote by the ever famous Anonymous:

A mind is like a parachute.
It only functions when it is open.

Our gifts of awareness and mindfulness will serve us well when we are open to new ideas.

Other points to consider include:

start where you are (your baseline),
be open to new ideas,
take inspired actions,
adjust as needed.

Keeping the Momentum...

Enthusiastically!

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip #8

2010-10-11T20:00:00.001-07:00

Tip #8 for Keeping the Momentum is near and dear to my heart; it is...

Harness the power of your enthusiasm. Part of keeping your momentum going is to connect and reconnect with the enthusiasm you felt in the initial experience. Reflection and visualization can help ignite the spark of enthusiasm.

For more information on how to Harness the Power of your enthusiasm, check out the Enthusiasm 4 U blog, which has a variety of articles, tips, insights, book excerpts and points to ponder.

Harnessing Enthusiasm!

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip # 7

2010-10-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

Keeping the Momentum Tip # 7

...guides and informs providing the way to better your best. That's why it is always a good idea to:

Monitor your progress. Here are two insightful questions to ask yourself on a periodic basis: What went well? What, if anything, can I do differently the next time?

Taking time to inquire, better yet write it down so you have a record and resource to monitor your progress.

What went well before, during and after. Depending on your situation, also remember to ask what went well with the beginning, middle and end.

The second question does not imply anything went wrong. It is simply asking if there might be anything you would do differently to enhance or improve future experiences.

Monitoring your progress is another way to review how far you have come.

Keeping the Momentum Going...

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip # 6

2010-09-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Tip #6 is powerful.

Respect your gift of choice. Keeping the momentum is a choice before, during and after the event. Possibilities and opportunities abound for ongoing growth and development. Choose wisely.

In the Flow of Wise Discernment,

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip #5

2010-09-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

Tip #5 identifies one of the key things you can do to keep the momentum going:

Keep things simple and realistic. Make it a point to select one or two things to do initially. Once they become a natural part of your behavior, or you determine that 'it' isn't right for you, select one or two more to implement.

Making note of your experiences along the way allows for the opportunity to get valuable information. This information provides insight that leads to greater clarity, focus and confidence. Also, keeping things simple and realistic:

* is a form of self-care.
* reduces stress.
* supports you personally and professionally.
* builds skills through a series of small successes.

In Simplicity,

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum Tip #4

2010-09-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

So far on the way to Keeping the Momentum, you:

* have given yourself permission,
* are honoring your natural way,
* look for insight into what has worked

and now your next step is to...

Create a plan of action. Knowing in advance what you intend to do makes it easier for keeping the momentum going long after the meeting, seminar or event. Planning is time well spent.

Your plan of action can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Do make sure it is specific, realistic and that you have time included. By that I am referring to estimates for how much time something is going to take, when you intend to begin, frequency (if relevant) and end dates (for those things that are time bound). Block out time on your calendar to create and regularly review your plan of action keeping your momentum going .

Also, remember a plan of action is an effective support tool, not a burden. It serves to keep you focused, remind you of what you are keeping momentum for, as well as energize you.

Here's to Keeping the Momentum,

Antoinette

© 2010 All rights reserved. www.ASystemthatWorks.com

Keeping the Momentum: Tip #3

2010-09-03T20:56:00.000-07:00

Keeping the Momentum Tip #3

Last week readers were encouraged to Honor your natural way. This week you are once again encouraged to trust yourself and trust what you know as you...

Look for insight into what has worked. Your experience, whether it is work, education, life or..., is where you can look for what worked for you in the past. This is one of the few times where looking back can help you now and in the future.

Additional things to consider include:

* what were the circumstances?
* how did you handle the situation, i.e., what were the thought processes and actions that generated the outcomes?
* what skills and resources were beneficial? in what way?
* how might what worked in the past apply to a current situation?

You already have your answers. All you have to do is look for insight that works. And yes, it is okay to tweak as appropriate.

Keeping the Momentum,

Antoinette

Keeping the Momentum: Tip #2

2010-08-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

Continuing on with our exploration of Top Tips for Keeping the Momentum, here tip #2:

Honor your natural way. Each person has his or her preferred ways of doing things. Remember it is okay to experiment; though, force fitting rarely works.

This tip encourages you to trust yourself and trust what you know. And, I also recommend that you check in every once in a while with inquiry and reflection, just to be sure habit or fear isn't keeping you playing small or holding you back from discovering what truly is your natural way.

Here's to Keeping the Momentum,

Antoinette

www.ASystemthatWorks.com

Keeping the Momentum: Tip #1

2010-08-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

This is the first of a multi-part series on how to keep the momentum, whether it's with a project, learning something new, making changes/enhancements in our lives...personally or professionally. Having a guide to support us along the way can make all the difference before, during and after.

Tip #1: Give Yourself Permission

I know it sounds simple. Yet, this may be the one thing for many that may have been holding them back from achieving desired results or simply taking the next step. Another thing to remember: you are your own white knight. You don't have to wait for someone else to take care of you or give you the go signal. So, begin to take charge of your life now by starting new, starting fresh.

Give yourself permission. Keeping the momentum going is a gift we can easily give ourselves.

Here's to Keeping the Momentum,

Antoinette

Navigating Through Change & Transition Part III

2010-07-29T04:46:00.000-07:00

Creating Certainty

Change and uncertainty bring about myriad responses in people. Stress increases for some. Others may look at an opportunity to reassess their lives, personally and/or professionally to make new or different choices. Interactions with others can present challenges, depending on how you and they respond to current or changing circumstances. Whether or not you welcome change, things can become easier the better we understand ourselves and others, hone our communication skills and reduce stress.

There are tools and resources available to assist you with creating certainty in uncertain times including:

DiSC® Classic Behavorial Style Profile
Personal Listening Profile®
Coping & Stress Profile®
Time Mastery Profile®

Each profile comes with a complimentary 30-minute follow-up phone session to your discuss results. To order the above profiles**, e-mail Info (at) ASystemthatWorks (dot) com. Also I've created Sample Action Plan for Times of Change and Uncertainty as a simple tool to assist in bringing greater clarity and focus.

In Certainty & Focus,

Antoinette

**Your investment in the above profiles is only $31 each. The complimentary follow-up session is valued at $75. Act now to begin to experience greater certainty and ease.

Navigating Through Change and Transition: Part II

2010-07-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

Take Charge of Your Life:
Navigating Through Change and Transition
Part II

Change is a natural part of life. How we think and feel about change makes a difference as to how we experience things before, during and after the situation/event.

Following are insights and Points to Ponder from my experience, observations and work with clients along with insights from others, as cited. As you read through them, notice how you respond and what goes through your mind.

Points to Ponder

* Change is a natural, normal part of life.

* There are Three Stages of Transition:
Endings
The Neutral Zone
New Beginnings

"People don’t resist change; they resist transition. It is difficult to leave behind the “old” ways, even if the new way is exciting and appealing. People resist the loss of their identity (and sense of security)..." ~ William Bridges

* Change involves going from the known to the unknown. Stepping into uncertainty is what the unknown is all about.

* It is natural to experience a range of emotions when in the midst of change and transition. Denying your feelings can lead to increased stress, health issues and depression.

"When things change, we leave behind the way things were, and the way we were under those circumstances."

~ William Bridges

* Creating a plan of action is one way to navigate through change and transition allowing you to take charge of your life.

* Every moment is an opportunity, choose wisely how you use it.

Select one or two of the above to reflect on during the week. Then be aware. Simply observe yourself and your responses to the various change experiences this week.

Tune in to the next post for Part III.

www.ASystemthatWorks.com

Navigating Through Change and Transition, Part I

2010-07-16T20:54:00.001-07:00

There are several areas that cause clients concern and myriad challenges. One of the biggies is change. Here is an excerpt from a program that has helped many with understanding, clarity and focus.

Take Charge of Your Life: Navigating Through Change and Transition

Change offers the opportunity to look at and explore ways to learn and grow in our life and everyday livingness. Consider the following opportunities…

Choice
Creativity
Communication

Honor yourself and your feelings.
Have a plan.
Help others.

Acknowledge
Accept
Act

Now!
No to negativity.
New opportunities abound.

Gain clarity.
Generate joy.
Give thanks.

Express your feelings.
Exercise your body, mind and heart
Engage enthusiasm.

It’s not so much that we’re afraid of change or so in love with
the old ways, but it’s that place in between that we fear...
Marilyn Ferguson

Tune in to the next post for Part II.

Allowing or Pushing

2010-07-07T20:02:00.000-07:00

A few years ago a friend gifted me The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have by Mark Nepo. This book of daily 'guidance' was written by a man who chose to share wisdom, insights, observations from a life encompassing the spectrum of experiences—ordinary to difficult, life threatening to life giving—brought about by choices made.

I have come to treasure this book. Each day, each year I glean greater awarenesses along with the opportunity to live mindfully and intentionally. Today the reading was on Patience, something I've danced with many times, successfully and not so. One thought in particular stood out.

"...Had I not waited—which is different than avoiding what needs to be done...
Fear wants us to act too soon. But patience, hard as it is, helps us outlast our preconceptions..."

Various questions come to mind, including:

* How many times had I claimed to be patient when I was actually avoiding a situation, conversation, choice because I was afraid?

* What were the results from acting too soon because fear was the driver instead of wise discernment?

* How often did I push (fear based) instead of allow (trust based)?

We gain wisdom in many ways. Consciously tuning in allows the opportunity to move beyond preconceptions to clarity. This is what I choose. How about you?

In the Flow of Patiently Allowing,

Antoinette

How To WIN In The New Workplace

2010-06-24T16:18:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that things have changed all around us, especially in the workplace.

I've experienced these changes directly, as have my clients. I'll be sharing insights, tips, resources, etc. to assist with clarity, understanding and direction on an ongoing basis.

Here is a quote that provides perspective, one course of action along with benefits from such action.

"The World is crying out for a new way of doing business. When the social enterprise concept becomes known and begins to spread through all free market economies, the flood of creativity it will unleash has the potential to transform our world."
~ Muhammad Yunus, winner Nobel Peace Prize 2006

Here's to a new way for the new workplace.

Antoinette

Observations ~ Walking Your Talk

2010-04-06T20:56:00.001-07:00

With the pace and situations of life - personally and professionally - it is interesting to observe how others show up. There are those who react, which often is triggered by fear or frustration. Then there are those who respond, which often comes from a calmer and more relaxed or neutral space.

And there are those people who are projecting onto others and/or may be sending mixed messages. For example, he or she may caution others against being judgmental, yet they point fingers or engage in gossip. Another example might be when he or she tells an employee that they ramble on and are wordy. Yet the one providing feedback often goes off on tangents or has trouble making a point.

This reminds me of a quote from the wise sage, Anonomyous:

"What you do speaks so loudly, I can't hear what you are saying."

This quote is a good reminder to be sure we walk our talk. This can be done by:

* saying what you mean in clear, concise terms.

* be mindful of sending mixed messages. Remember effective communication is verbal, nonverbal including body language, tone, content, context and so much more.

* own your own projections!

* be honest and sincere.

* lead by example; be mindful of the example by which you are leading.

* engage in an objective self-inquiry process to find out what may be underneath what is showing up. This could be a written process or a point of reflection while walking, exercising or setting time aside for this specific purpose.

What to do when you meet or work with someone whom you perceive is not walking their talk? The best thing to do in the moment is to make sure you are centered, perhaps take a few calm, deep breaths. Inwardly move to a place of objectivity. Model the appropriate behavior. Take a time out and reconnect at a more appropriate time, but not too far from the situation or event.

In Clarity & Consistency,

Antoinette

www.ASystemthatWorks.com

Walking Perspective

2009-01-26T17:32:00.001-08:00

I needed a break from working on the computer so chose to take a walk, stretch my legs and mind, along with getting some fresh air. The small cemetery called to me; a quiet beautiful setting perfect for contemplation and exercise.

Yes some of you are thinking what an odd place to go for a break. To me it is the perfect place. This place and this walk helps to give me perspective. Just as there are people here from different backgrounds, experiences and cultures that have had families and jobs, there are those of us drawn to the various types of work we do that also come from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences. Some have been here a while, and some are new. Once again I become aware of the wisdom, lives touched, changes, opportunities and lasting legacies.

Most people only associate cemeteries with death. Yet if they look around they’ll see so much life. Gray squirrels run, hop and climb as they do what comes natural. Birds sing and chirp as they sit on tree limbs or telephone wires. There are the grasses, plants; oh yes, and then there are the trees. Numerous varieties are scattered about the grounds including evergreens and oak. The trees have long shed their leaves. Though, I recall the beauty of the trees through each of the seasons. My favorites, though, are the tall trees arching over the lane welcoming all who come as if with great honor and reverence.

Traffic speeds by oblivious to what is beyond the open gates.

My walk. This walk especially puts me on notice to change—life changes, seasonal changes, changes within the seasons; outer seasons and those of our lives. Some of the changes we choose. And then there are those that choose us. Nature doesn’t question the seasons or change. In fact it provides a model and metaphor for us in our work and how we live our lives.

Igniting Your Spark(sm)

2008-01-31T19:41:00.000-08:00

So winter is upon us in the northern hemisphere and for some that means slowing down, dreariness, staying inside and hibernating until spring arrives. Those options are available to everyone, but what a waste of time, energy (yes it does take energy to be a couch potato) and potential. Now is a good time to take advantage of the many opportunities to “sharpen the saw” as Stephen Covey puts it in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Another way to look at it is that this is the time to “Ignite Your Spark”. You know, the spark that gets and keeps the fire going at work, for you personally, with family, at school, in volunteer activities, etc. How? Let’s take a look at just a few of the possibilities for:

Igniting Your Spark at Work

· Clean your office. Clear out all of the clutter and unnecessary stuff you’ve accumulated over the years. This includes clearing out old files and e-mails on your computer. Did you know that clutter steals your energy, which makes you less effective?

· Once you clear the clutter look around to see if your office looks inviting or boring. If boring then consider how you can make it inviting, perhaps with new pictures or items representing your favorite hobby or just by moving things around.

· Take a few moments to reflect on when you first started your job. Think about what excited you enough to say yes to that job or type of work. What were you hoping to accomplish then? What are you hoping to accomplish now? How can you do what you do differently and still achieve desired results?

Igniting Your Creative Spark

· Give yourself permission to be creative always, in all ways. Yes it is that simple!

· Every once and a while look at life literally. This is especially interesting with conversations, commercials, and fast food restaurant signs.

· Ask effective questions. The basis for creativity and innovation is in asking questions. Along with this is to look for the third right answer. Curiosity can serve you well.

· Take risks. Act with boldness and outrageous audacity on occasion.

Igniting Your Wellness Spark

· Outline a wellness plan for the year. Break things down by week or month. Also make sure you vary things quarterly to keep yourself interested. Remember wellness includes what you are going to do for your body, mind and spirit. Be sure Fun is part of your plan.

· Take a class whether it is for yoga, Tai Chi, dance, art, canoeing, cooking or something related to your wellness plan.

· Throughout the day make it a point to get up and stretch. Move around to keep your energy flowing and your mind fresh.

As you see, there are many ways and areas of your life where you can ignite your spark. Once you set the intent to do so, things become easier and your life is enriched in the process.

Here’s to Igniting Sparks with Joy & Enthusiasm!

Antoinette

©2008 Antoinette Webster. All rights reserved. Antoinette is President of A System that Works. A System that Works focuses on co-creating a system that works…for Igniting Your Sparksm through speaking, training, consulting and coaching services along with various books and empowerment tools. Contact Antoinette at 513.887.0600, Info (at) A System that Works or www.ASystemthatWorks.com.

A System that Works...For Your Success Newsletters

2006-09-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

A System that Works (sm) …for Your Success!

Volume 10 No. 1

Keys to Success

Well it certainly feels great to be back writing this newsletter. I felt it appropriate to take some time off to refresh, retool, publish two books in our Enthusiasm! series and explore ways to help you take the leap to your next level, whatever that might be.

I am pleased to announce that September marks the 18-year anniversary for A System that Works. Quite a bit has happened since 1988. Reflecting on the success, adventures, learning opportunities—and, yes the failures too—here are 18 bits of wisdom and insight to share with you.

Related to Work…

1. Pay attention to the way you like to work and the type of work that allows you to flourish. You owe it to yourself to do that work and work to your talents, strengths, abilities and interests.
2. Tune in to the type of environment that supports you in bringing forward your best. This includes physical space, location, resources available and your work expectations.
3. Look outside of your department, organization and even industry to ignite the spark of creativity and innovation.
4. Discover how to effectively make the most of meetings you lead and attend.
5. Experiment and take some risks, once you review relevant factors, that is. One way to know if you can is to do.
6. Treat your job as if it is your business. Actually, that is the case when you consider you are the president of the company that is you and all you have to offer others.

Related to Others…

1. Maximize your people skills at work and in all areas of life. Relationships offer support and play a part in our growth.
2. Explore ways to become a more effective communicator with all of the ways you communicate and connect with people.
3. Remember that people have different styles and preferences for behavior, learning, leadership, communication, listening and processing information. The more you understand about others the better you’ll understand yourself.
4. Clarify what is expected of you along with any action items and due dates. Communicate the same to others
5. Be mindful of how you offer feedback. Honest, specific, respectful feedback brings positive results.
6. Heed the red flags by honoring your instincts and intuition.

For Yourself…

1. Take time, on a regular basis, to reflect on what you have done, how far you have come and what you may have discovered along the way.
2. Become a life-long learner. This allows you to stay fresh, hone your skills and become a better person, overall.
3. Give yourself permission to play and take time to recharge, refresh, renew.
4. Celebrate the small successes for they pave the way to bigger ones.
5. Clear all of the clutter and simplify your life. This frees your mind and energy.
6. Trust yourself and trust what you know.

One more bit of wisdom to share involves gratitude and appreciation.

So much has happened along the way. And there have been many people—clients, colleagues, peers, coaches, mentors, vendors, friends and family—many events, challenges and opportunities along the way. All have been important. All have been meaningful. Most of them have been enjoyable. Deep gratitude and appreciation flows to them and to those whom I am yet to meet and experience.

May these next years hold many fascinating, insightful and prosperous adventures.

Antoinette S. Webster

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Insights & Wisdom

Even when we know something well, there are always new opportunities to learn more, when we are open to the lessons. –Kevin Eikenberry

Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive! And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who are truly alive.

–Harold Whitman

The greatest gift you will ever have is your life, and the second greatest gift—which you give yourself—is courage to live it to the fullest. Time goes by quickly, and you cannot take it for granted. Appreciate how far you have come, and give yourself the gift of discovering how far you can yet go.

–Dr. Sonya Friedman

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What’s New

October is the Month of Enthusiasm! Yes that’s right and once again Antoinette is the National Coordinator for creating awareness and celebrating Enthusiasm! Find out about various activities, programs, etc. under the What’s New section on the ASW website @ www.ASystemthatWorks.com . There will also be special offers, raffles, etc. throughout October.

The Enthusiasm! How To Draw It To Yourself & Keep It book is now available in print and eBook format. In the works is the audio version of the book, which is currently scheduled for a Fall 2006 release. Check out a book sample @ http://www.asystemthatworks.com/.

Now available in print format is Igniting the Spark of Enthusiasm! Discovering what to do when your get up and go got up and went.(sm) This is a 6” x 6” book with tips on how to zap the zappers of your enthusiasm before they zap you. It also contains suggestions on numerous things you can do to ignite your spark of enthusiasm, many of which are no or low cost. This makes a great gift for friends and members of your work team. Check out a book sample @ www.ASystemthatWorks.com.

Did you know that both of these books are available for bulk purchases for sales promotions, premiums, fundraising or educational use? Find out more by contacting, SpecialSales@ASystemthatWorks.com.

Currently, there are a few openings for clients in my coaching practice. I work with a limited number of people on an as needed or ongoing basis; find out more by calling 513.887.0600. ASW

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The A System that Works…for Your Success! newsletter is written for people and businesses committed to harnessing their potential. Information contained in this newsletter is general in nature and is not intended to replace professional consultation. A System that Works…for Your Success! is published by A System that Works(sm).

A System that Works (sm) is a speaking, training, facilitation, and coaching company focusing on professional and personal transformational growth and development. For information on our services and programs or to schedule a private session, contact: Antoinette S. Webster, M.E!, MBA & President, A System that Works, 640 Foster Ave., Hamilton, OH 45015, (513) 887-0600, info@ASystemthatWorks.com, www.ASystemthatWorks.com.

Hello & Welcome

2006-03-31T21:22:00.000-08:00

Hello & Welcome to Insights & Observations. This blog is an opportunity for me to share insights, observations, curiosities, questions ~ things that come to my mind with regard to everyday experiences and the "stuff of life".

I look forward to connecting with you in this way.

Antoinette