It is easy to talk about problems. However, if we approach them in a solution driven manner, the problems turn into endless opportunities. Asking how questions needing open ended answers as opposed to questions requiring yes and no answers, create possibilities for solutions. Keeping an optimistic outlook and seeking different opinions will help create a solution driven mind.

Holding a grudge really hurts the wronged person not the person responsible for the problem. It is not easy to let go of a grudge. However, it is tough to take the high road and rise above the it, especially when you feel hurt.

If you can get past it, though, the rewards are tremendous! Besides the respect of peers and leaders, you will love yourself more. Being wronged will happen many more times in life. And remember, it has been medically proven that folks who let go of hurts live longer and happier lives.

Simon Sinek suggested that “Learning has greater value when we share what we learned”. Sharing learnings creates value for the person delivering and for the receiver (s). However, sometimes, people forget about the importance of the way and when the learnings are delivered.

When this information is given at a time a mistake has been made, it will look like a correction. The best time is to discuss in a sharing environment. The point I bring up to my clients and in workshops is to share what we have recently experienced that continues to help us learn.

Giving 110% plus is easy when we are passionate about our work or project. The 110% plus comes naturally if the job is a natural fit for the needed skill set. When the passion is lacking, what can be done to create it? If passion is lacking because of time constraints and task overload, take a break from it. Whether you leave for an hour or half of a day, not thinking about the work will result in the energy needed. Passion and the drive to succeed needs to be organic or burn out occurs.

Today, more than ever in the professional and personal world:

1. Speak truth not fiction
2. Admit a mistake by saying “I was wrong” and giving an apology
3. Only say nice things or avoid saying anything
4. Be on time for meetings or conference calls
5. Answer emails within 24 hours

A loss, whether the death of a family member or loss of a job, is difficult for everyone involved. Most desire to give comfort. That could mean not saying anything but instead giving a hug (if you are close). Other words are I am sorry for your loss or for this difficult time. Never give the impression you understand what they are going through because you are not them. Offer your comfort simply and with empathy.

Recognize that sharks are folks who use their power positions to ensure they will succeed, especially during a conflict or in a competition. Some sharks have developed through the environment they were born into. They manipulate people / situations and are masters at spin. Staying aware and taking precautions will help you avoid sharks by just staying out of their way.

Giving someone a second chance is critical for long term survival and success. Mistakes and not so smart decisions happen to everyone. What matters is how we recover by giving others and ourselves a second chance. The folks who continue to dwell on their mistakes and wrongs done by others will never reach their full potential. It is good to learn from our mistakes and then let them go by allowing and embracing a second chance.

It is not acceptable to hold hands in a professional setting. Touching is allowed if you have permission to help someone up and down stairs by using your hand to support an elbow. Patting someone on their shoulder or arms is not acceptable. Hugging only works with peers when there is a long-term relationship and permission has been asked and granted.

Personal external and internal brand impacts need to connect with others and the environment. For example, you can sell the best tasting hot dogs but if the group you’re in is vegetarian not only will the offering not work, it might even be ridiculed. Showing up and projecting your best is just the foundation. You also need to create a splash in sounds, actions, and delivering what is valued to establish an effective brand impact.

Remember, you can be the best artist but if you are playing in an accounting environment, your artistry will be perceived as useless.