Muse to Magic: A Journey toward Self Publishing

  
MUSE:  Oxford dictionary: 1. (in Greek and Roman mythology) each of nine goddesses, the daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, who preside over the arts and sciences. 2. A person or personified force who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist”
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I always was wordy… in my writing, in my talking, in my gesturing with my hands.  I had stories to tell and emotions to share.  Years passed, many of them spent in the corporate world with brief stints in the nonprofit sphere -- writing, reading, debating, coaching, presenting, commenting, synthesizing others' thoughts on paper.  

The words tumbled.

And sometimes people listened, paused and nodded as I touched a common chord was and mad a  a connection, a moment of sharing through my words.  Still my writing, my speech was couched in the context of the business world.  Clear, carefully worded and effective business writing.

But the muse called, and I began to write snatches of poetry now and then, inspired by nature and relationships.  Experiences and emotions were captured in phrases that surprised me.  “ "They percolate through my walls, my screens. And with pen poised, I listen.  The words of inner voices, drift onto the pages, magical, mysterious.”

And so I wrote for myself.  

But the tickle, the itch to write deeper, something more meaningful for others would not go away, and then the universe delivered the opportunity for a new chapter. A journey with a remarkable business partner who was a REAL Writer.  The magic began in a symbiotic way, both of us driven to do something more with words… using them to share what we had learned… the good, the bad, the ugly.  Writing from our hearts…. writing with passion about what we cared about.

And the dream of our book was launched. 

They say it takes a village to raise a child.  I believe it takes a partnership based on trust and respect to publish a book.  And of course … a large dose of patience sprinkled with humor.  
But probably the most important thing, is a belief in something bigger than either of us.  A belief in the wisdom of inner voices, which we humbly share with our readers in our blogs every week --- resulting in our first self-published book.  We write about perseverance, of overcoming challenges, and of the “learning” that nature and people reveal --- if we take the time to listen and observe. 

The Muse may be calling you. And you may be surprised what is possible.  Maybe even a book!

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

How Grand Central Station's Black Spot Improves Your Content

You make your content sticky when you use the power of curiosity. It is a subject we discuss here often. And on my recent trip to NYC, it was yet again underscored while standing in the center of Grand Central Station.

Here's the story...

My youngest son lives in Norwalk about an hour north of the city. He, my oldest son and I rode the train in on Saturday morning to celebrate a birthday weekend. After getting off the train, I remember walking up into the "palace" and felt my jaw drop at all the splendor greeting my very wide opened eyes. The three of us just stood there not saying a word and letting it all...soak...in.

After a minute, Ross pointed out a very small black brick in a corner on an otherwise perfectly pristine and breathtaking ceiling. I looked at him and felt an immediate need to know why and now not later. Curious, indeed. He said that during the station's mass restoration in 1988, the team transforming this historical American icon decided to leave a nod to what the ceiling once looked like.

Initially, I thought it was the result of decades of soot from the trains chugging in and out of tunnels below. Wrong. Research proved it was mostly nicotine and tar and the result of the cigarette smoke swirling inside the terminal in earlier times.

So what does this all have to do with sticky content you're asking?

Well, research has proven time and again that when curiosity gets used in a well-crafted title, a post always gets more eyeballs and engaged minds. We've said it before and we will say it again. Curiosity is an itch that must be scratched. It's what well-known content marketing company Upworthy calls the curiosity gap. It basically piques human interest so much that we want to close the gap between what is known and what is not known.

Needless to say, they use the strategy day-in and day-out as the foundation for the volume of engaging content they craft and produce. In terms of how they approach that content, these brilliant marketers sum it up in one sentence:

Simply write a headline that is tantalizing enough to get read to click through but does not give away the whole story.

Centuries ago, English philosopher Thomas Hobbes said, "Curiosity is the lust of the mind."  No argument here as I lusted to know why that "black spot" was on the beautiful ceiling of Grand Central Station.

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

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Older PostLesson from the Workplace: The Power of Simpatico

Why Not Try Some "Aloha" in the Workplace?

In another life, I must have been a cultural anthropologist. In this life, I have learned languages, and quickly made the connection between words and the cultural values behind them.

You discover a lot by exploring words from other cultures. Earlier this week I shared the meaning of the Italian word "Simpatico." The process of studying languages teaches us a few things in our ANGLO workplace. Imagine for the moment, warm tropical breezes. Now—let’s talk about the Hawaiian word “Aloha.”

“Oh, I’ve been to Hawaii and ‘Aloha’ means hello or goodbye," you tell me. Yes, on the surface, “Aloha” is a friendly greeting. But dig a little deeper, because the word is much more than that. In fact, “Aloha” embodies a way of living that goes beyond the translation of “good morning” or “hi.”

In talking with native Hawaiians, they tell me that “Aloha” is actually a way of treating others with deep care and respect. According to these folks, when you live the spirit of Aloha, you work to create positive feelings and thoughts. Aloha, therefore, is actually a philosophy—a way of behaving and thinking that demonstrates sharing, and being a part of all living things coming together. In other words, “Aloha” is MUCH more than a salutation.

When someone says “Aloha,” she is saying, “I am connected with you, and I will strive to think good feelings toward you.” And when you reply, “Aloha,” you’re telling this person that she can expect the same from you.

That’s pretty powerful. It is reminiscent of the Golden Rule, but embodies all living things, and brings in reciprocity of respect and connection.

Let’s add the concept of Aloha to all our communications. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Always assume good intent when you interact with people, and give them the benefit of the doubt.
• Slow down and be in the moment. Don’t be rigidly locked into your future goals and what needs to be done today. Pause, as there are side paths to take. Remember, the relationship is more important than the task.
• Listen to the emotion behind the words. Queen Lili’uokalani of Hawaii said, “To learn and understand what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, and to know the unknowable.”

What else can we do in the workplace to embody the spirit of Aloha?

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

Lesson from the Workplace: The Power of Simpatico

My Italian readers—my paisanos,  if you will—know what I mean by “simpatico.” To be bookish about it, simpatico conveys mutual and reciprocal positive feeling between two people, and expresses an “immediate alignment and resonance with another person.”

 In other words, simpatico is about an “I get you, you get me” connection, the root of which stems from shared values and deep understanding. As with other multicultural words and concepts, I’m intrigued by the idea of mainstream culture integrating these old-world values into the modern business reality.

With simpatico I’m diving into some important beliefs familiar to me as an Italian American. When I think of simpatico, I realize there simply isn’t a comparable single word in English that captures its essence.

Let’s say I have a strong working relationship with the CEO of a small cause- driven organization, and I appreciate that they practice the values associated with conscientious organizations. A co-worker asks how and I get along with the CEO. I may answer, “we get along great” (too generic), or “our values are aligned” (too corporate), or maybe even “I like his vibes” (too new-agey). Or I can say, “we’re simpatico,” as that meaning resonates on a deep level. People know that we have a trusted relationship based on understanding, high regards and mutual respect.

How can we be more simpatico with coworkers and clients? In other posts I’ve written about listening, respecting, being humble, honoring diversity, and creating opportunities for trust. These same attributes also contribute to being simpatico.

Today I will try to be more simpatico with my colleagues and clients by practicing these five steps:

1. Listening and looking for common ground between us.
2. Opening up and sharing a little about myself. (Hopefully they in turn will share something as well. You can’t be simpatico if you know nothing about each other.)
3. Showing emotion. Simpatico doesn’t happen if the discussion is only about facts and data.
4. Communicating frequently. This builds a sense of simpatico. (And remember to laugh!)
5. Sharing successes, challenges and failures alike…in other words, being real, which creates a sense of bonding that leads to simpatico.

Now that you know how to use this word, try it out.  Have you created simpatico with some business relationships this month?

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

Why NYC's Oldest Bar Is a Content Writer's Dream

Picture Abe Lincoln. Babe Ruth. Teddy Roosevelt. John Lennon.

Can you imagine their conversations over a beer or three? The heated discussions about politics? The talk about America's favorite pastime? The words about Dylan, the Stones and McCartney?

Well, these icons at one time patronized the Irish establishment pictured above (circa 1937).

It's better known as McSorley's in the East Village. And it is said to be New York City's oldest bar dating back to 1854.

Two Saturday nights ago, my sons and I sat at the table in the foreground. We shared the joint with a loud and lively crowd of men and women of all ages, from 21-year-olds to octogenarians and everyone in between.

Talking, laughing, yelling and yes, drinking beer. No doubt many offered their own solutions to the world problems of the day.

No fancy IPAs, Stouts or Lagers served here.

Just your choice of a white or dark ale. And because two beers are better than one, suds are served in pairs of seven to eight ounce glass mugs. Simply remember two words: light and dark. It’s the only type they offer. And cash only, please.

You want an appetizer you say? Sure, how does an unadorned platter of white cheddar slices and a sleeve of saltines sound?

Because that's what you get. 

Everything's stripped down to the bare essence of a good time.

I thought about the stories the dark wood walls of McSorley's could tell.

Stories of love and joy.

Stories of anger and hate.

Stories of betrayal and revenge.

Stories of life.

Very compelling content, indeed.

In fact, enough ideas for a content writer to engage their audience for awhile. Make that a good...long...while.

Think about that the next time you struggle for an idea or angle into a story.

What things do people feel strongly about?

What keeps them awake at night?

What makes them laugh so hard they snort?

What brings joy to their daily grind?

Ask enough of those questions and you get unstuck quicker than the Great Bambino's swing at a pitch.

It's something skilled content writers and conscientious leaders already know. Not to mention the patrons frequenting McSorley's over the past 162 years .

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

How Nature and Mindfulness Keep Stress Away

You ‘ve heard me say it before … nature teaches, nature calms, nature soothes the soul, etcetera, etcetera.   And I’m going to say it again, because it’s true… when you immerse yourself in nature, TIME STOPS!

This the key to mindfulness, the “hot” new philosophy that preaches living in the moment to minimize stress.  Something every conscientious leader knows, or needs to know.

Even police departments teach this technique to their officers.  But, trying to not worry about the past, or trying not to worry about the future proves to be very, very difficult. . Mindfulness is challenging for those pesky thoughts that seem to percolate up during a normal day of activities.

But there is hope…

Several weeks ago, I went camping at a primitive and remote site, off a dirt road that ran parallel to a beautiful Oregon coastal river.  It was a magical place with space for the tent under trees with delicate webs of moss.  A secret place with the river just 100 yards away singing a melody that put me to sleep at night. 

We set up camp, pulled out our camp chairs and sat quietly among the trees.   The miracle was not that we discovered this enchanted spot, but that for three days my brain stopped its daily litany of worries, concerns, and issues to be resolved.

I listened, explored, hiked and laughed in the moment of the experience, within the green and lush carpet of nature.  Three days of mindfulness with nary a thought of work, the kids, the future. 

I was on pause, allowing myself to smell, touch, see and hear the deep and forgotten songs of nature that  filled my mind, leaving no room for worry or stress

Nature makes mindfulness easy. I found I could shut off the clatter of my brain, leaving no room for disruptive thoughts.  I cherished this feeling, tucked it into my memory and returned home, tranquil, slower in pace and refreshed… without stress.

So to all my friends and colleagues who are conscientious leaders… give yourself permission to sit still in nature. By combining it with some mindfulness, stress doesn't have a chance.

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

Why the Conscientious Leader Loves the Electric Bike

Never ever underestimate the power of curiosity.

I was reminded of this last weekend as my oldest son Cam and I visited my youngest son in Connecticut for his birthday. Ross works for Cannondale, one of the premiere bicycle manufacturers in the world. He took us on a tour of his very cool corporate HQ and showed us the latest and greatest in the cycling world.

Touring, mountain, hybrid---pick a style of bike and you will find it inside the Cannondale labs, along with all kinds of memorabilia from the Tour de France and other world class cycling events.

This particular Saturday, we tested two bikes in the company's empty parking lot. One was a cutting edge new trail bike called "Bad Habit" with an uber suspension system. Thanks to its design and the fat 3-inch wide tires, you can climb over parking curbs and feel...no...pain.

We also tested a Cannondale E-Series model (pictured above), better known as an electric bike. Basically you pedal real fast for a few seconds and then feel the electric current kick in and power you along for a ways. (Ross said that a lot of employees use it at lunch to run out for a quick pastrami and rye pickup.)

Let me be totally honest with you. I had no idea what to expect. But my virginal ride on the E-Series was a total blast.

I felt exhilarated and energized (pardon the pun) as it was a new experience for me.

Then I got to thinking how the whole exercise reminded me of what every conscientious leader knows about the value of curiosity and a willingness to step out of the box to try new things. Not only does it make you happier, research show curiosity to be associated with higher levels of positive emotions, lower levels of anxiety, more satisfaction with life and greater psychological well-being.

What's more, curiosity has been proven to improve on the job performance. Yes, it's obvious to most of us, but when we're more curious and interested in what we are working on, it's easier to jump in, do the time that a project needs and see success in the process.

In fact, we've talked before about how smart marketers and companies know that curiosity is the key to engaging their audience no matter what form of communication is crafted.

So what's the point of all this?

Just a simple reminder to keep things interesting in the workplace.

Keep an open mind and don’t settle for the same old routine.  Find ways to pique the curiosity of your teams. Give them opportunities to try new ways of learning, brainstorming, communicating.  

It's what the evolved conscientious leader already knows. And it's why they love the idea of bringing an electric bike into their work environment.

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

Type "A" Personality: The Lesson in Autumn Leaves

I’m lucky, I guess. I live on a street full of conifers so my rake stays pretty quiet in the fall.  But there are a couple of deciduous trees that turn color on my property - a pretty vine maple with flaming orange leaves, and a cherry tree with crimson foliage.  They add that touch of magic to the yard that charms my eyes.

But I can’t quite understand why one tree drops leaves sooner than another.

In August, all the tree leaves are green and yet by mid-November the trees are bare.   My guess is that each tree has its own internal clock and rhythm that triggers the change.

Now as I’ve shared before, biology was always one of my favorite subjects – and that includes the study of trees.  But for curiosity’s sake, I decided to check out what I remembered about deciduous trees and why their leaves change color.

Source:  Science Made Simple: http://www.sciencemadesimple.com/leaves.html

As summer ends the days get shorter and the trees "know" to begin getting ready for winter. During winter, there is not enough light or water for photosynthesis. The trees will rest, and live off the food they stored during the summer. They begin to shut down their food-making factories. The green chlorophyll disappears from the leaves. Small amounts of the orange and red colors have been in the leaves all along. We just can't see them in the summer, because they are covered up by the green chlorophyll. There is also a process that enables them to lose their leaves, so they can conserve moisture and reduce the amount of energy they must consume to stay alive.

This science and “wisdom” of nature is pretty amazing.   It sure makes sense… a time of growth and a time of rest to conserve energy. Each deciduous tree listening and honoring nature's cues.

Of course that got me thinking about whether people take the time to listen internally and externally for cues that intuitively signify a time of change.  Isn’t that an important trait of conscientious leaders?

We need to remember that like trees, each of us has our own time table for change. 

Each of us may have a different time of respite and reflection versus a time of active and energetic pursuit of growth.  There is an ebb and flow.  For Type "A" personalities like myself, perhaps I need to honor the lesson of nature and give myself permission to rest…like my friends the maples.  

And perhaps this will create more calm and peace in preparation for another season.

What about you?

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

The Power of Simplicity in Communication, in Life

It's been said that life really is simple. But it's we humans who make it complicated.

Think for a minute about that 2,500 year-old thought from Confucius.

It's really the truth isn't it?

The human condition is such that we are always wanting more.

Something bigger. Faster. Shinier. Sexier. Newer.

And that's where the complicating begins. We are never content with what we have. And as a result, never grateful for what we have.

Simplicity is something I've come to admire. It is a touchstone in my life.

But I'll be the first to admit that it took some time to get there. I no longer crave the massive view home. Or the foreign luxury car. Or the material possessions.

My simple 2-bedroom apartment, 14-year-old Acura and good health works wonderfully well for me. 

It's the same idea for communication.

Strive for simplicity in your ideas.

In your content.

Find a subject.

Add a verb.

Resist all other embellishment.

For example:

Eat less. Move more. Buy less. Make more. Stress less. Laugh more. Feel blessed. Love more.

And that, more or less, is what simplicity is all about.

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

How Crabbing Teaches Us the Value of Mentoring

I was captivated and enchanted.

I watched the grandfather patiently spend an hour teaching his 8-year-old granddaughter how to clean a fresh caught crab.  There were 17 of the crustaceans … a very good day at Nehalem Bay on the Oregon Coast.

He passed on the skill as an old crabber to a new one.  One generation to another. And you saw the delight on the child's face.  Her enthusiasm was contagious as she listened patiently to the wisdom of her grandfather.  At times she rushed the process, leaving meat on the crab legs, at other times she was hesitant, afraid to take the crab in her hands.  But in the end with smiles on both their faces, she exuded pride in her new skill.

It made me think of how easily and naturally grandparents take on the responsibility of passing on their knowledge to the grandchildren. Yet in the workplace it is the exceptional manager who deliberately takes a portion of their time each week, each month, to mentor employees.

It is a critical and essential role for the Conscientious Leader. 

A favorite Harvard Business Review article makes a compelling case for mentoring:

“ Mentorship delivered in an authentic manner creates an “I care about you culture.” The first step is just having mentorship as part of your people development strategy. This does not need to be a complex, bureaucratic HR-department process. It should be something people know is embraced as part of the ethos of a firm.”

Mentoring is a close cousin to coaching.  Sometimes it’s hard to discern the line between the two.  Both create a win-win experience of sharing without ego, learning and entrusting knowledge and expertise to others.

It’s a value embraced in conscientious organizations. 

And why is this good? Simply because it demonstrates a sincere and humble willingness to “pass the baton.”  That we are all in this together and it’s not just about me. 

Such coaching or mentoring helps the "student" because it:

·         Encourages the individual to excel and try new things through encouragement

·         Assists with problem-solving and generates creativity

·         Generates self-confidence

·         Provokes self- reflection

All good stuff in a workplace!

And for the person doing the mentoring...you win too!   Our brain rewards kindness and giving to others by releasing hormones that make us feel good. And it may enhance your own job satisfaction, knowing you are training and seeing others succeed because of your wisdom. 

I particularly like coaching and mentoring young graduates, breaking into the job market.  I never turn down an informational interview if referred by someone I know.   Nothing gives me more fulfillment than seeing someone “get a step up” through some tip or piece of advice I provided.

So today even if you are extremely busy…dedicate at least 3 hours a month toward mentoring.

Do it for others, do it for yourself.   Pass it on! 

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

How To Bring Passion To Your Ideas

I always have an idea or two percolating around in my head.   Perhaps because I’m basically a curious person.  I wonder about things…probably too many things. The problem is that when I share them – many are actually pretty half baked.  And I have the annoying habit of speaking whatever I think…without my filter engaged.

My kids just roll their eyes, and mumble, “There goes Mom." 

But sometimes there is a gem amongst my meandering thoughts, and it merits some fine tuning and time spent with others flushing out the concept. 

This is when the passion comes in. 

People like to belong to something positive and exciting---the right idea creates engagement and exhilaration. In fact, people want to join in and become a part of it, be it as a funder, partner, or customer.

The key is generating the passion that captivates the imagination and connects with the listener. The most important thing to remember is to tell a story that creates emotion.

They say people “shop” based on data,  but “buy” – in this case an idea—based on emotion. It's a central premise of conscientious marketing.

Now this comes easier to passionate, high energy, animated people. (Italians like myself.)  Yet even quieter, calmer folks can invoke passion around an idea.  Here are a few practical tips strategic leaders know about generating such passion:

1.      MOST IMPORTANT:  You have to believe in the idea with your heart and soul.  No hesitancy or back pedaling. Bringing an idea to fruition is a journey and you have to trust in the long haul.

2.      Tell the story of the vision.  What is it that the world, the customer, the donor will be a part of.  Describe it using terms like, “A New Paradigm,” “Breaking the Rules,” “Creating a Movement."  These phrases get  people excited. And if they are scared of such powerful phrases you probably don’t want to talk to them anyway.

3.      Shift the inflection of your voice. If you are generally quiet, raise your voice slightly.  If you are loud, like me, slow down and lower your voice. It’s the contrast in your style that make people perk up with curiosity, wondering what is going on.

4.      Ask them for their input – tell your listener it is an evolving idea that is gaining traction and you want them to be a part of it.  And then listen.  Their ideas may make yours better!

5.      Open your eyes wide as you tell the story of your idea. This alone creates the feeling that this is important.

Bringing passion to your ideas not only generates supporters but may open doors you didn’t think were possible and propel your idea forward.   And it feels good to be passionate about something. Try it!

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

Have you Built a Bridge Between Your Left Brain and Right Brain?

Raiseyour hand,  if you depend on analytics and metrics to inform your decision making?

Raise your hand,  if you depend more on gut intuition and relationships to inform your decision making?

Did any of you raise both hands? Two different problem solving styles and yet most of us gravitate more naturally to one or the another.  The first one reflects more left brain thinking while the second one reflects more right brain thinking. 

Both are important, so those of you who raised both hands are on to something.  It may be the balance between both hemispheres of the brain that results in the best decision making.

Yet, the truth is that logic and analytics have become the  go-to tools  for most business leaders.  It is part of Western  European culture and the one more heavily taught in Business Schools.   Talk to any MBA graduate and you will know what I mean.

But let’s pause a moment, as I believe it time to give right brain thinking a little more respect!  And as we become a more diverse nationwe may need to open our minds and honor cultures that utilize more intuitive relationship oriented approaches.

As  Carl Sagen stated, “There needs to be a much stronger bridge between science and analytics with intuition and spirituality.”  I have to agree.  For too long, “creative, intuitive types” were considered a little too touchy-feely in the corporate world.  These employees often seen as over contemplative, sometimes emotional, and not fitting the mold of linear thinkers who religiously embrace metrics and robust planning processes for  achieving goals.  

But these same folks were also often described as visionary, big thinkers and pretty darn creative with their circular thinking.

The reality is that this place we call work, is dynamic and grounded in relationships.  Emotional intelligence, which is seated in the right brain, has emerged as an important attribute of Conscientious Leadership.

My relevant story: In a prior work life with my left brain analytics training, I filled the role  as VP of Strategic Planning.    I created the flow charts, scenarios, contingency plans, and metrics up the kazoo, to guide the organization. I was successful and garnered my kudos from left brain executives. Yet,  although we followed these plans to some degree, there was no way we could guess at the changes that coming which made the plan obsolete.  We neglected the right brain intuitive thinking that facilitates planning as an art – with creative visioning and attention to the relationships and pulse of partners and consumers.

And it’s important to consider the underlying aspects of intuition that neuroscience reveals may provide powerful benefits in the corporate world.  For example, did you know the chemistry in the body rewards those who are relationship oriented,  altruistic and may be following their intuitive nature?  (right brain stuff)

In other words, it feels good when we let go of our ego that demands being "right" because the data tells us so.

It’s time to challenge dependence on left brain analytic thinking as the panacea for solving problems. 

Here are some new ways of thinking that connect to your left brain thinking:

·         Connect with others in an empathetic way, not logical way, to learn and feel better.

·         Recognize that innovation often comes from creativity experienced through intuition.

·         Understand that universal mythology, revealed in stories from around the world, often tease out the narrative. It’s time  to pause, listen, share, and not be wed  to the mantra of analytics. 

Let’s utilize both left brain and right brain thinking.

Want to know if you're left brain or right brain oriented? Sign up for our weekly e-letter by clicking here and you'll receive a 30-second quiz developed by Sommer + Sommer.

There are advantages in business and strategic planning to use BOTH left brain and right brain thinking

Lesson from the Cemetery: The Secret To On Demand Creativity

They might not admit it. But every creative person wants a muse. You know, that go-to someone or something that jolts right brain stimulation when needed for content and communication.

After all, coming up with revolutionary ideas, powerful words, or world-class imagery is not always the easiest task in the world. Even when your veins are coursing with a triple-shot Americano. Or a handful of M&M's (peanuts, please).

Sure, I'll be the first to admit that strolling through the art museum, listening to a musical savant or taking in a documentary at your favorite movie house can provoke some good thinking...even extraordinary from time-to-time.

But I'll also add that these "arty" experiences are anything but fail-safe.

Over this past weekend, I asked the question if there really is any "tried and true" path to finding on-demand creativity.

I was thinking about this in a pretty off-beat location. To be precise, while at Willamette National Cemetery visiting close family members.

Outside of the warm wind rustling a few trees every so often, you could hear virtually nothing over this 270-acre sanctuary. A rare occurrence I can assure you, in a loud and busting at the seams 2.3 million metropolitan area.

I think the fact that it was the third straight day of mercury hitting the century mark that kept all but me and three others who crossed my path that morning from visiting such a tranquil peace of earth.

But after 10 minutes of peace the answer hit me.

If you really want to tap into a well of creativity at just about any time, you find a place of solitude. No conversation, no music, no urban noise. Nothing to get you amped up, ramped up or angry.

Just peace and quiet.

Just the stillness of your mind.

And it works every...single...time.

Think Lao Tzu, Hawthorne and Monet. It's a secret the great philosophers, writers and painters have known for centuries. When you've quieted your self-talk and emptied your cerebral cortex, all kinds of good things seem to bubble up to the surface.

For me last Saturday, it was the idea and content for this blog post, what critical advice to give my son about a job search and a spark for my biz partner and me, as we create strategies for conscientious organizations.

In fact, I even came up with a creative answer to my most pressing challenge of that day.

I picked a Washington cab over an Oregon pinot for a weekend dinner party.

To get our book, "25 Building Blocks To Create a Conscientious Organization" free, go to HCollaborative.com for an instant download.

The 2,000 Year-Old Word Sparking a Workplace Revolution

I‘m fascinated when words from other cultures go global. You know—the ones we Anglos say but don’t fully understand, and can’t exactly translate into English.  Today, let’s go east—way east, in fact, and uncover the meaning of Namaste.

Do you know what Namaste means? Perhaps you’ve seen movies where people bow their heads, bring their palms together and utter Namaste to one another. Or maybe you have been in a yoga class where the instructor offered Namaste just as you were leaving. Perhaps you’ve experienced the beauty of India or Thailand and shared the phrase Namaste with the gracious people of these enchanting places.

Is Namaste a greeting of respect? A hello? Is it a blessing, like “peace be with you”? Actually, it is all of these—and much more. The phrase is probably most commonly heard among Hindus of the Indian subcontinent, and in some Southeast Asian countries. But this information alone does not do it justice.

On a much deeper level, Namaste reflects a philosophy and orientation to life that can’t be conveyedwith a quick translation.  When you break down the origins of the word, it literally means “bowing to you.” People in the West don’t typically bow to others (never mind that bowing conveys honor and hospitality from one person to another). Going even deeper, the word signifies that “I am withdrawing my ego in the presence of another.” That’s a tough sell for an ambitious go-getter of the Western world, striving singularly to make it.

As one Hindu woman told me, Namaste “is a heart connection between people.” When we greet one another with Namaste, we’re saying, “may our minds meet,” a message further communicated by the folded palms above our hearts.

This is a pretty significant cultural message, all wrapped up in just one word. Maybe we need to embrace the concept of Namaste in our work world. But how? Here are a few ideas:

1.       Make discussions a mutual win-win, not a situation where only one person can be right. Competing with colleagues just for pride may serve our egos, but it doesn’t serve our clients or our teams.

2.       Listen first, and with respect. As the saying goes, there is no such thing as a bad idea.

3.       In any relationship, build the other party up. Acknowledge their strengths and what they bring to the table.

4.       Default to a collaborative model. Don’t let the idea of collaboration paralyze you. Consider all viewpoints, and make decisions with a group consensus. Some leadership circles call this the “enlightened dictator” model.

5.       Don’t sweat the small stuff. After all, if we are all connected, it’s not about the battles, but the harmony.

Namaste!

A deeper understanding of the word Namaste reflects a philosophy of " checking the ego" and connecting via the heart. We need more Namaste in the workplace

How To Write Effectively: Lesson from a Caffe Latte

You sit with a good friend in your favorite coffee shop.

You sip your caffe latte served at a most perfect 185 degrees.

What's more, the rich full-bodied espresso and steamed milk in your Italian handcrafted ceramic coffee cup could not taste better.

You exchange stories about your relationships, your jobs, your lives.

Thanks to that wonderful coffee drink, your conversation flows effortlessly.

And that's how it is with effective marketing communications.

Effective communication is always conversational.

It resembles nothing remotely close to what is found in a textbook or academic paper or Harvard Business Review.

You must begin with a simple conversation to engage your key stakeholders.

Forget about "marketing-speak" or industry "buzz terms."

Just be conversational.

Need a simple hint on how you do that? Write with your ears. In other words, write as people speak.

And keep in mind these proven basics of effective communicators:

·         Your sentences should be short and simple.

·         Your language needs to be jargon-free (see above).

·         And keep paragraphs to just 3 to 4 sentences for easier scanning and reading.

Also, write in active voice. It grabs hold of your audience. (Kind of a like coffee does with your brain.)

Keep these simple tips in mind the next time you need to write an important memo.

Or a put up a blog post.

Or craft a newsletter.

Your ability to be conversational is crucial if you want to engage your audience and get your message to resonate.

 Nothing like a handcrafted caffe latte to get you stimulated to do just that.

www.HCollaborative.com | Tips to help leaders write better and connect with readers

~HCollaborative.com~

Authenticity: The Crux To Connecting with Millennials

You would have had to be under a rock for the past five years to not have heard about the value of authenticity. I'm talking about authenticity as a brand and authenticity as a leader.

The reason for so much discussion is clear. Millennials, now the largest consumer group in the U.S., not only value authenticity but they demand it.

I need look no farther than at my own 20-something sons.

Homogeneity isn't a default setting for them. They choose to surround themselves with authentic people -- blue-collar, white collar, musicians, doctors, hair stylists and Peace Corps workers -- the only common bond seems to be that these young men and women live authentically.

In other words, they live life on their own terms.

Elite Daily, the premier online news platform for and by Millennials, reveals in a 2015 research study the following finding:

"43% of Millennials rank authenticity over content when consuming news. They first have to trust a company or news site before they even bother reading the content that they provide. Blogs are meant to be authentic and many of them are run by a single individual. Millennials connect best with people over logos."

Now if you're a leader steering a company, working to attract the best employees or marketing products to Millennials, this is a wake-up call for you. In fact, the longevity of your career and your brand may very much depend on it.

Yes, I know that being authentic might be easier said than done. After all, a lot of us are used to "playing a role" in our jobs and in our relationships. But as research shows you, that is really no longer acceptable.

So how do you work toward becoming that "true version of yourself" particularly if you're a leader?

Well,  Bill George, former CEO of Medtronic and author of the book "Authentic Leadership," says 4 key traits are present in every authentic leader:

1. They are self-aware and genuine. Authentic leaders clearly know their strengths, their limitations, and their emotions. Most importantly, they show up the same way whether in the conference room or on the back patio. They do not fear looking weak by admitting their mistakes or weaknesses.

 2. They are mission-driven and focused on results. Authentic leaders work to carry out the mission and achieve the goals of their organization. They seek results for the good of the company, not for their own personal gain.  

3. They lead with their heart. Authentic leaders do not fear showing their emotions or their vulnerability when connecting stakeholders. When communicating with employees or customers, they do so in a direct manner but it’s always done with empathy.

4. They focus on the long-term. A key principle in Bill George’s model is that authentic leaders are focused on long-term shareholder value. Authentic leaders realize that to nurture individuals and to nurture a company requires hard work and patience, but the approach pays large dividends over time.

Now be honest. Doesn't the idea of  being authentic sound a whole lot better than conforming to a predetermined role?

~HCollaborative.com~

NYC Subway Teaches Workplace Navigation Lessons

After visiting my daughter in Brooklyn, I’ve awarded her the title of “Subway Queen.” With a little help from her Smartphone transit app, she maneuvered the never-ending stairs, gates and schedules flawlessly, and we always landed where we were headed.

To navigate without a car in this metropolis, you need to learn the language of a web of trains, including their starts, stops, and the timing in between. To go north, you must first go west…unless you have to go east. Huh?

This reality isn’t intuitive to an outsider, while seasoned residents like my daughter get it. When you don’t understand how everything connects, you’re liable to get lost, stuck, or at least extremely frustrated.

It made me think of how we all survive in the complexity of workplace webs. Do we know how to begin navigating the workplace with the myriad of paths and gates of politics and influence? Like the subway, sometimes the journey is underground, while the movement, although seemingly going forward, looks like a detour.

Is there a surefire way to navigate the political network system of our corporate worlds?

It depends.

In a smaller company, for instance, it’s easier to travel through the organization and understand the influencers and powerbrokers. With larger organizations, this can be confusing, especially with multiple departments, unequal titles, and added layers of hierarchy.

Regardless of company size, if your goal is to successfully navigate through the hierarchy, here are some helpful tips from the subways of the Big Apple:

1.     Be flexible. Things change, from titles to offices to the people you see on a daily basis. It’s important to listen and observe the flow.

2.     Be aware of your surroundings. You never know when a circumstance may arise  that delays your progress. Be alert, monitor the landscape, and check in with those in the know.

3.     Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance when you are feeling a little lost. In general, people in the know want to help out. Some may even take you under their wing.

4.     Create contingencies. Sometimes your path changes. You need to be prepared by thinking through options.

5.     Patience is golden. You can’t rush movement. Honor the waiting, and use your time for other things.

6.     Trust that you will get there. Believe in the path and see yourself reaching your destination.

Many thanks to my daughter for taking the mystery out of my trip to NYC! She was a knowledgeable companion, making the journey an experience I’ll always remember. Now reach out and find a worthy companion to help you on your trip through the corporate world.

Conscientious Leadership is the Hope for our Future

Learn and understand how critical it is for companies to demonstrate conscientious leadership. It is vital for their success and growth within the new business paradigm.

10,000 Most Shared Articles on Web: Strongest Emotional Appeal?

You put a ton of effort into your content writing. But how do you make sure you get a big return on all that sweat and time?

A recent study by respected web-metrics company BuzzSumo took a look at the web's most shared articles. In fact, 10,000 of them got mapped to a specific emotional appeal. (As you who follow us know, we believe emotion is the foundation for any great piece of content writing.)

The emotions included joy, anger, sadness and so forth. Here's how those emotions ranked when put into a pie chart:

You see that easily the most popular emotions injected into these highly shared articles were:

-- Awe at 25%

-- Laughter at 17%

-- Amusement at 15%

The unpopular emotions in the chart? Sadness and anger.

There's a simple lesson in all this.

If your content is boring, you're not going to grow your audience.

So make sure it is entertaining.

David Ogilvy, my favorite ad guru, famously said in the 1960s:

"You cannot bore people into buying your product."

- David Ogilvy

If he were with us today, I'm certain he would say that applies to content as well.

~HCollaborative.com~

Do You Live Up to Being a Cause Driven Organization?

The phrase, “Cause Driven”  gets thrown around a lot recently.  I’ve heard myself say these exact words: “I finally left the corporate world, the business world, as I want to use my marketing expertise to help organizations who are 'cause driven' and hold the same values I do.”

Well I’m busted!

First that sounds a little righteous, as many corporations and for profit companies exist within the business world that are cause driven.  Second, do we even understand what it means to be cause driven?  And who decides whether an organization is cause driven?

But first let’s review some key trends around why this matters:

1.       According to the 2015 Millennial Impact, Millennials aren’t interested in structures, institutions and organizations, but rather in the people they help and the issues they support.

 A 2016 Survey of Millennials,  conducted through Mobile Cause, “The New Generation of Giving”, 87% of Millennials donated to charities last year. That is more than any other age group.

In sum, Millennials, now the largest population bubble, say that a major factor in making purchasing decisions and employment choices, is based on whether an organization is “cause driven” and reflects their own values.

2.       There is a growing movement among for-profit companies, to file their laws of incorporation as a “Benefit Company”.   This legal designation means allowing the company to move beyond the purpose of generating profit to only serve the financial interests of shareholders --- but to also accommodate and allow profits to be used to benefit the “greater good”.   Some Benefit Companies may even choose to go through a rigorous third party certification process and become “B-Corps”.  

3.       Many retiring baby boomers, are choosing to stay active, often as volunteers or start up entrepreneurs, using  their talent and energy to participate in efforts to improve the environment and work toward social justice. They often use the phrase, “It’s time to give back.” 

In other words within the new world order, an emerging strong contingent believes a shift is occurring:

“The overarching goal is not profit but IMPACT!”  Michelle Obama, July, 2016

This is the evolution of organizations and corporations who dedicate themselves to the triple bottom line:  People, Profit, Planet. This is a framework that touches  social, environmental (or ecological) and financial aspects. Some businesses are even calling it the quadruple bottom line, adding Purpose.   

But beware of the phrase and exploiting its marketing value!

It’s popular to claim you are “cause driven”, or that you are a Benefit Company, as this phrase resonates with current customer preferences.  So take note... this next step is very important: You must pass the sniff test.  We are talking about being authentic.  Demonstrating you practice what you preach.   The Millennials are adept at ferreting out the truth around an organization and with the transparency of social media you must  be honest about your efforts. 

There is also going to be more and more auditing and scrutinizing of Benefit Companies.  They are required to complete an annual “Benefit Report” outlining how they fulfilled their promise to practice the principles outlined in the tenets they've  agreed to follow in becoming a Benefit Company --- and what impact they are making.  This report has to be shared publicly!  Today very few Benefit Companies have complied with this requirement, as no one has been checking.  But those in the know say those days may be ending.

A benefit company like ourselves, HCollaborative was honored to recently help a local Portland LLC, develop its  2016 Benefit Report.  This for-profit company is truly making a difference around equity and sustainability and embodies the spirit of being cause driven.  

So ask yourself these questions:

1.       Is it time for a “manifesto statement” describing the very essence or heart of the company, that goes beyond a vision or mission and demonstrates your "Cause"?  (P.S.  we can help you with this)

2.       Is it time to explore becoming a Benefit Company?  If so check with the Secretary of State’s office within your state of residence.

3.       Do you practice the principles reflected in the triple bottom line?

a.       People – truly investing in your employees

a.       Profit – using profits for the better good – making an impact

b.       Planet – practicing good stewardship of our planet

4.       Are you sincere, authentic, honest and put your money where your mouth is?  Words are easy, but actions are what matter.  

THE TIME IS NOW… Take the step, and together with other cause driven individuals, businesses and nonprofits, we can make the world a more equitable and just world for ALL.