This week, in my random travels doing research on the internet I stumbled across Seth Godin. What a revelation! Here is a man who finally puts into words the things that I have experienced in the last few years.

Light bulb moment number 1: The Race to the Bottom
Companies are in a race to do things cheaper and quicker often at the expense of quality. What does this mean for us? If you are the kind of assistant that takes no initiative and works solely on instructions, your company will find someone who can do your job cheaper.

Light bulb moment number 2 : The Race to the Top
Find out what is premium about YOU. What can you do that no one else can? What is your niche? This will ensure your long term sustainability in the workplace and ensure that your salary matches your skill, passion and commitment.

Light bulb moment number 3: Pick yourself
For some reason we are waiting for SOMEONE to say "you are good enough", "I see your potential" or "please join my project, I think you can add real value." Volunteer, put your hand up, make people aware of what you can do. PICK YOURSELF!!!!

Light bulb moment number 4 : Your product is not for everyone
We are in a culture of spray and pray. This is not effective. It is impossible for everyone to like what you do. Find out who your customer is. Find a boss that needs YOUR SKILLS, YOUR PERSONALITY and YOUR PRODUCT. Stop trying to get everyone to like everything you do!

Light bulb moment number 5 : Find your tribe or create your tribe
Find people like YOU. Reach out to them. Learn from them, teach them, support them and add value to them. We are moving into a collaboration/connection economy, so be READY!!!

Have a happy week!

We all know how good a well timed thank you feels, how nice it is when your boss says "well done" or "good job". It's great to hear that you are needed and that you add value. We all want validation and to be recognized but how often do we do this for others or ourselves?

The last few days the power of words has come sharply into focus for me as I started a new chapter of my life. Funny when we have to say goodbye or when things change we suddenly say the things we should have all along...it also became very clear to me that when there are big changes in your life, big doubts and fears tend to flare up and this affects our inner dialogue profoundly.

I have realized that we need to be aware of what we say...or don't say to others and perhaps even more importantly what we say to ourselves and about ourselves. The right words at the right time can touch someone deeply and may mean more to them than you realize.

So the question is:

Are you bringing positive things into your world but what you say to yourself and others? Or are your words those of a victim? Is your inner voice your harshest critic? We can all choose and that is the magic of it.

My challenge to you : thank those who help you, encourage those who need a lift and speak kindly to yourself and others!

Have a divine week!