What if there were an instant way to remind us of good memories, positive events and uplifting instances? And what if we had a tangible way of quietening our inner critic?

Well there actually is!

It’s called a ‘Gratitude Jar’ and if you don’t already have one, it’s time to create yours now.

Every single time something positive happens, a good memory is created and our heart is full of joy – let’s write a little gratitude note and drop it in our Gratitude Jar. Keep the jar by your desk, or on the bedside table – really wherever it is easy for you to access and the place where you spend your thinking time.

Being able to remind ourselves of those happy and fulfilling times coupled with the kind words others said about what we mean to them is a pretty foolproof way to reassure ourselves when we doubt or feel down.

Now, every time you are facing a difficult day and the going gets tough, you can reach out and pick one of these ‘lucky dips’ to read – and remind you of a moment when your heart was filled with gratitude and you were smiling ear to ear.

Let your own gratitude, your own words and your own joy from that moment lift you up when you feel dark and discouraged. Let your own memories of a moment when you were so proud of how far you have come, become your reassurance. Let them give you the strength to lift you up and encourage you to move forward regardless of what is currently weighing heavily on your mind.

Let’s make this a practice. Let’s make this a power. Let’s make this one of the most uplifting tools in your toolkit – so you can flip your limiting beliefs in a difficult moment and move from a frustrated to flourishing mindset within moments. Once you recognise and utilise your inner strength and qualities, you’ll have the courage to take your next steps with a renewed sense of purpose.

Let yesterday’s you be the power behind today’s you – a formidable team!

Shall we?

Quietly, and formidably yours,
-Joanna

So curiosity isn’t about being nosey, it’s about asking thoughtful questions, really listening to understand, (as opposed to listening to respond) and staying open to new perspectives.

This is how we as professionals are more likely to uncover valuable yet necessary information, enhance collaborative decision-making, and build stronger, more effective relationships with our clients and colleagues.

What could you do to be more intentionally curious and less ‘jumping to conclusions’ judgemental?

You might think that some workplace situations are not appropriate for bringing out childlike behaviour. Think again.
I was delivering a course on Presentation Skills this week in a client’s office. We had a great day and there were lots of golden nuggets shared as we explored the why, how and what of presenting an often dry subject. At the end, the group gave me a round of applause, and I spontaneously curtsied, just as I would have done as a child. That provoked more laughter, which was a great way to end what had been an insightful and beneficial day.