The Hockey Skill That Every Person Needs in Business and Life

In a hockey game, players stop and change directions hundred of times. There’s a lesson there for all of us,,  in business and in life…

(The article I mention in the video is not only about  Wayne Simmonds‘ evolution from a dream-filled youngster to an NHL star, but an homage to trailblazer Willie O’Ree, the first black hockey player in the NHL Enjoy and be inspired!)

IMMERSE: Rediscovering the Creative Flow Within Each of Us

From the moment a fish breaks out of its egg, it is swimming.

It doesn’t ask itself it can swim, it just does.

It can swim by nature.

Humans are creative by nature.

We don’t have to ask, we just are.

We live this truth with gusto as children but then we start listening to the opinions of others. We compare  ourselves to others, and little by little the light of  creative boldness dims.

But we can reclaim our creative identity.

When you are doubting your creative nature, think of a fish immersed in its natural environment – it simply exists in that state without questioning or complicating it.

As a helpful reminder of how to embrace this creative identity, I’ve developed the IMMERSE acronym for you to reflect upon:

I – Innate: Creativity is innate to our human nature.
M – Mindful: We don’t need to overthink it; creativity comes from being present and mindful.
M – Mindset: Creativity is a way of approaching life with an open and curious mindset.
E – Effortless: Like a fish swimming, creativity flows effortlessly when we are in our element. .
R – Realized: Creativity is realized through thought and  birth of that thought in action. 
S – Spontaneous: Creativity often arises spontaneously. Embrace your creative promptings.
E – Expressed: Creativity is reward in itself.  Expression of creativity emboldens the self and gives permission to others.  Just start, and then share your creativity.

But how does one start?

If you are stuck, even though you want to re-engage your creativity, do this: close your eyes, take a deep breath, and picture yourself being creative with no expectations,  no judgement. Feel the bliss , the  freedom-  like a fish glides through water. Hold on to the creative energy. That’s you. That’s yours.  Gently open your eyes and see the world with childlike wonder and curiosity. 

It’s still you.

Into the ocean of creativity your soul contains…

…IMMERSE…

11 Lessons in Life (and Business) I Learned from Luge

1. Visualize – visualize everything along the way. Not just the finish, but what it takes to get there. Run things through your mind and that includes visualizing things that don’t go perfectly right, but you deal perfectly with them.
2. A strong start never hurts -Never
3. Making adjustments early can pay dividends later – It gives you a buffer to cover mistakes at later times, but if you’re execution is clean, it’s all bonus!
4. Relax and breathe – Being tense works against you- when things come at you quickly and you literally feel the pressure, it’s easy to forget to breathe properly. Tense muscles and a tense disposition translate to less efficiency. Breathe, relax, be comfortable being uncomfortable.
5. The less steering the better – get into the flow of the track – Every act of steering temporarily creates more friction. You want people and systems to run cleanly on their own without needing input from course correctors. Friction slows you down. Don’t unnecessarily introduce friction in your (life, project, relationships, fill in the blank).
6. You don’t want to hit the walls, but your focus shouldn’t be on the walls, it should be on your line down the track- where your attention goes, your energy flows. The path, bounded by constraints, is still the path-you’re on it- stay aligned with the goal and focus on what can be done in the present, preparing you for the next experience of the present.
7. Larger course corrections are done with your legs and shoulders but fine, sensitive adjustments are made at the head- Finesse when you’re in the thick of it. Don’t over-compensate.
8. If a mistake happens, let go of it-it’s literally behind you-keep going! There will always be time to analyze your run, or your project, but the time isn’t while ‘now’ demands your full attention. Don’t dwell on the past because that means your mind isn’t focused on the present and everything is happening right …
…Now…
Mindfulness is power!
9. People are pulling for you! We might not always hear the cheers, but there are always people pulling for you, always.
10. Be thankful for every run and celebrate- When you get to the end of a run, or the end of the day, or the end of the project, you made it. Be proud. Doesn’t matter how you finished, it doesn’t matter how bruised or how many dislocated pinkies you have (I speak from experience) You finished! There are other people that don’t get the opportunity you just had. There are other people who have challenges of different types: mental, physical, financial, relationships…in short other people would give anything for another opportunity. Live in gratitude.
11. Regardless how the run went, learn from it and grow- At the end of the day, at the end of the project, reflect on what went well, what didn’t. Keep doing the things that work and fix what doesn’t if you can. If you can’t, keep building on your strengths.

Bonus Learning: Bring on the next challenge, you got what it takes!

Dare to Ignite: 8 Questions to Fan Creative Flames

“Set your life on fire. Seek those who fan your flames” – Rumi

This simple yet powerful quote by Rumi, is applicable to individuals and organizations.

How do you apply it?

Here are 8 questions you can ask to help you and your colleagues be your best creative selves.

1. What is the ‘fire’ in your life that drives your creativity, and how do you continuously fuel it to keep it burning brightly?

2. In your journey of personal and professional growth, there have been individuals who have acted as catalysts, fanning the flames of your ambitions and creativity. What did they do that helped you? Do that, be that, for others.

3. How can you, as part of a team, act as a force that ignites and amplifies the creative passions of your teammates?”

4. As a leader, how do you identify and nurture the ‘sparks’ of innovation and creativity in your team?

5. What kind of environment or support system is most conducive for you to thrive creatively and why?

6. What strategies can you employ to help others realize and unleash their creative potential?

7. When faced with obstacles or setbacks, how do you reignite your passion and keep your creative flame alive?

8. Peoples creative endeavors, your creative endeavors, influence and inspire others. What systems/plans are in place to make sure others are exposed to the courageous creative efforts of you and others?

You are creative by nature. Believe it. Embrace it.

Embrace you!

Set your life on fire, and seek those who fan your flames.

If you’d like to discuss how to do this, drop me a line

The Creative Benefits of Practicing Gratitude – Happy Thanksgiving!

As we appreciate all the bounty around us, remember also that Thanksgiving vibes bring a feast of creativity.

1. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s missing to what we’ve got. It opens our eyes to possibilities we might’ve missed.

2. Thankfulness brings joy and happiness, boosting our well-being and motivation. When we’re feeling good, we’re more likely to take risks and find innovative solutions.

3. Gratitude helps us see how supported we are — the people, materials, opportunities, and even our own talents. Recognizing this boosts our confidence, laying a solid foundation for exploring new creative ideas.

4. Gratitude builds a positive mindset and resilience. When challenges hit, being thankful reminds us to keep going, even when things get tough.

5. Thanking others fosters collaboration and teamwork. Appreciation fosters an environment where diverse perspectives spark more creativity.

6. Gratitude can help put us in flow, fully absorbed and engaged in creative activities.

In a nutshell, Thanksgiving gratitude isn’t just about turkey—it’s the secret sauce for unlocking creative potential and finding joy in our creative adventures, not just today, but every day of the year! 🎨✨

Happy Thanksgiving!

Unleashing the Limitless: The Authenticity and Transformative Power of Creativity

Creativity is inherently authentic and true to itself. It doesn’t strive to conform or be something it’s not.

At the same time, creativity has the power to manifest in various forms and expressions, adapting and transforming into different ideas, artworks, or innovations.

The nature of creativity is limitless, transcending boundaries, simultaneously source and expression, noun and verb.

Be bold!

You are creative!

Beyond Sight- Understanding Observation in the Creative Life

The true essence of observation goes beyond seeing, it’s about engaging and being present to all your senses, even your inner dialogue.

Ready to embrace a richer, more creative, more present version of yourself?

Please accept this invitation to redefine your perspective.

Drop me a line and join the journey.

Don’t just look…observe. ✨

Join Me in Being Patient Zero for Creativity- Share Who You Are and Make the World Better

Henri Matisse said, “Creativity takes courage.”

The world needs creative solutions, courageous people.

Like a virus, creativity is contagious. People get bold when they see others stepping out of their comfort zones to create, and they get creative as well.

I wanted to create something to share my thoughts about the importance of being a person that starts the spread of creativity: To be Patient Zero for Creativity!

But I felt that in order to do that effectively, I needed to stretch out of my own comfort zone.

What started out as a Robert Frost style poem morphed into the soliloquy with Shakespearean overtones you see here. Please join me in being ‘patient zero for creativity.’

Share your creativity so that others can be inspired and share theirs, and together, let’s create a better world. I’ve got your back!

Four Techniques to Declutter Your Mind So That You Can Live Fully in the Present

A cluttered mind overwhelmed by worries and regrets drains your mental bandwidth, blocking creativity and engagement.

Take back control with simple, proven techniques to declutter your headspace.

This quick video reveals tips on how to how to stop negative thoughts and unlock the calm, focused mindset you need to live fully in the present moment, tap into your creative potential, and start thriving in the here and now.

The Ego Trap: Overcoming It to Create

Let go.

True creativity requires taking risks and embracing failure. Ego resists this by wanting to avoid missteps and thus protect you.

But to be creative, you must let go of ego. Don’t cling to the idea and shut down or lash out when it flops.

Recognize you’ll never be fully right – the world evolves, perceptions shift. What works today may not tomorrow.

Let go of perfectionism.

Keep trying new things, stumbling and learning, you will grow forward.

Stay open through setbacks.

Your best ideas emerge when you override Ego’s need for safety and approval.