An inspiring quote via social media, an old-fashioned bulletin board display, a sticky-note on your desk, calendar pages, or even a greeting card can provide inspiration for a productive week. Consider the following quotes (from unknown authors) and choose one for this week’s encouragement and productivity enhancement.
- “Optimism is essential to achievement, and it is also the foundation of courage and true progress.”
- “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
- “Excellence is the eventual result of always striving to do better.”
- “Considering going with the choice that scares you the most, because that’s the one that is going to require the most from you.”
- “Success often comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.”
- “Vision without action is merely a dream. Vision with action can change the world.”
- “We learn something from everyone who passes through our lives. Some lessons are painful, some are beautiful…but all are priceless.”
- “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.”
- “Dreams and dedication are a powerful combination.”
Sometimes a quote alone is not enough. Perhaps a book, or a bookshelf, of content is what’s needed to overcome challenges, refresh one’s career, or to make improved work/life balance choices. Consider the following books that remain helpful over the decades since their release.
- Difficult Conversations by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, Sheila Heen (2010 – the second edition). Clients and mentees alike have read and referred to this powerful conversation and work-life improving guide. The authors deliver on the subtitle’s promise of “how to discuss what matters most.” Look for the 10th-anniversary edition which includes “answers to the 10 most frequently asked questions about difficult conversations.” Additional accolades: New York Times Business Bestseller.
- Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain was released in 2012 – well before COVID work-from-home-rules caused some introverts to say “I was born for this” or “Now the extroverts know how we feel every day trying to live in their world.” Quiet provides insights for understanding ourselves and the introverts with whom we work and live. Everyone has good ideas to share, let’s learn how to hear them. Accolades: Quiet is also a New York Times Bestseller.
- Doesn’t Hurt to Ask: Using the Power of Questions to Communicate, Connect, and Persuade by Trey Gowdy (2020). This came highly recommended from a colleague in the financial/banking field. Filled with personal stories from his courtroom and public service work, Gowdy presents ways in which we all can become more effective communicators – no matter our arenas of work. Accolades: Gowdy is author of New York Times Bestselling book: Unified (2018).
What titles are on your bookshelf that help you get going? Or, help improve morale and productivity?
Looking forward to hearing your list.
For creative conversations, and go-forward action, call master facilitator Jana Kemp: 208-367-1701
As the author of seven books, in seven languages, Jana has been interviewed by U.S., Canadian, and European programs, and magazines. Her presentations have been seen in the United States and India by international audience members.
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