Author spotlight

Fall is not merely a transition in our environment; it's a metaphor for life, reminding us of life's constant change and the profound significance of choosing to let go of what no longer serves us. In this beautiful transformation, we find guidance for our own lives and leadership.

The way my brain works is that I visualize the summer as the end of the year and the start of FREE TIME!! If you have been reading our blogs for some time, you know that Seasons Leadership uses the metaphor of the seasons to illustrate the predictable phases we all move through in all parts of our lives.

"Next time, sit at the table," my colleague said as we left the conference room after an important meeting about a project I was leading. It hit me like a ton of bricks. Of course. Why didn't I?

Debbie and I became podcasters by accident. After publishing 35 episodes (in just our current season!) of the Seasons Leadership Podcast it seems odd to say we stumbled into this, but it is the truth. While a typical week finds us scheduling recording time with leaders from around the world that share our passion for leadership excellence or sharing actionable advice with listeners to improve their lives, what has become an integral part of our mission, started out on a lark.

As I write this reflection on spring the sun is shining in Seattle – a rare treat at this time of year – and I can feel that familiar “spring fever” feeling starting to re-emerge like the crocuses and cherry blossoms starting to bud and bloom. This is the time to try something new – or many somethings. It’s a time to plant seeds of ideas, and to explore those ideas and see how they grow over time.

I have been hesitant to write about this topic because I know what you might be saying to yourself. “Yes, I know investing in myself is important. There is nothing new that she can tell me – it’s just hard to do when I have so many other higher priorities.” But you can create a life that is even more amazing, deeply aligned with your true self, and long-lasting and fun – all that is required is that you slow down, take the time to figure it out – and invest in yourself – NOW.

How to effectively implement “bottom-lining” in your leadership

Winter is the time to rest, and it is essential to do so. Take a clue from nature. Notice the trees and their bare limbs. It looks like nothing is happening, but trees conserve energy through miraculous cellular adjustments. At the same time, their roots gather the soil's nutrients and water to have enough energy to grow buds for new leaves and flowers in the spring. Without the winter, trees would not have the energy to renew themselves.

I suggest we allow ourselves and others some latitude of grace. We can start by assuming that people have positive intent and are trying their best. I’m not saying we shouldn’t hold people accountable, and I am dismayed when we twist definitions to allow abusive or immoral behavior but to err is human.