Life Giving Light

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Light is cheerful and comforting, and it even helps ensure our physical and mental health. What if you had 5 keys to “shine the light” on how to achieve a dream, learn a new habit, or complete a huge task? Recall the power of L-I-G-H-T and apply these 5 keys to success to achieve the results you hope for:

1. List what you want to change – describe in writing the vision of your preferred future (how will your situation improve after you’ve taken action in the present). Most people believe Thomas Edison invented the electric light bulb- not true! He envisioned a day when even ordinary people could enjoy safe, long-lasting light. Then he labored for years to make that dream possible.

2. Investigate options and obstacles, perceived or real. This awareness can get you unstuck and help you make wise decisions. As for Edison, he was aware of several hurdles to over-come, such as the need for delivering safer and more stable electricity to neighborhoods in order for electric lights to be practical for everyday use. He then focused his attention and resources to find solutions. Edison invented 7 system elements in all to make long-lasting and safe home light bulb use a reality.

3. Go! What’s the first step you must take, and the next one tomorrow? Talking, planning and good intentions mean nothing if you don’t take action.

4. Help makes a discernable difference. Whereas you may be able to tackle most any project alone, progress comes more quickly with help. Even Edison was not alone– he had a whole team working on his projects, the "Edison's Pioneers.” The old adage remains true, ‘Two are better than one because they have a good return for their work; if one falls the other is there to help him/her up. Pity the one who falls and has no one to help him/her get back up.’

5. Time is both an investment and a cost. Recognize that anything worth achieving takes time. The good news is that time is often saved with the right resources – people, systems, tools or materials. If you are pressed for time it may be wise - and in the long run a cost savings - to pay a professional to help you plan and prepare, or to provide hands-on help for a project that you may or may not be fully equipped to complete alone and in a timely fashion.

Enjoy your life – walk with LIGHT. For more information on how to turn intention into action, or to hire Sandy Lawrence to inspire to your group, call 404-939-1569.

A Lesson from the Lawrence Puppies

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Even now, full grown at just over 2 years, they don't do a thing without the other, or without looking to my husband and I. They continue to flourish, not by exerting independence, but through on-going dependence and shared activities . . . trusting, loving, quick in forgetting an offense, and playfulness in discovering life and overcoming challenges through shared moments.

Their lives consist of a steady diet of affection, attention and affirmation from their 'parents' and from one another: shared praise and affection, shared adventures, shared meals, shared toys, shared space. They’ve learned this is a healthy, fun, and normal way to live.

One day I saw one pup trying to carry a stick twice his length and half his weight. The other one grabbed it, as if to take it, but the first one held on. Instead of tug of war or a barking match, they managed to trot up to the patio, each holding one end of the stick. Then they maneuvered the stick through the doggie door together. One puppy backed up and let the other one go first!

It seems no matter the situation, they welcome one another's involvement and contribution. They trust and assume the best. They don't demand their own way or insist on being first, and they don't hold grudges. They aren't selfish or hoarding either - if one dog has a toy, it's just a matter of time before it will be in the other one’s mouth. And they don't seem to mind sharing the spotlight. When one pup is praised, the other wags a tail too.

Ah, a dog’s life!

Coaching lesson from the dogs:

If you are feeling worn-out, distant or threatened by others, think like the Lawrence puppies - embrace the goodness of dependence and collaboration. Life and work challenges don’t seem so daunting when you are willing to let others into your world, and life is a little sweeter when you share the spotlight.

Who do you need to collaborate with or ask for help today?

Who do you need to affirm or praise for the little things they are doing right?

Unclutter Your Mind: 5 Critical Steps to Business/Life Growth

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Want to feel empowered, focused and pro-active? Grab a sheet of paper and pen right now and jot down your answers to these 5 Critical Business/Life Decision-Making questions:

What do you have to do now, and do fast, to complete an overdue but very necessary task?
Acknowledge priorities (what’s nagging you the most) and consider long-term consequences of further delay. Where is money (or time) being drained? What must you stop doing, or start doing to be your best self? Why?

List long term consequences as well as benefits/goals/rewards of completing what is undone.
Resist the urge to savor what is comfortable, convenient and easy . . . for example, choosing to spend too much time on ‘fun’ or ‘escaping’ (surfing the internet, reading, watching TV, socializing, working late, traveling, or napping) when there is work to be done or quality relationships are being neglected.

Wisdom teaches, "Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial."
What (or who) are you allowing to 'waste' your time or money? Is it time to set specific boundaries or limits with yourself and others? Where can you take responsibility and exercise more self-control or be more pro-active? Budget your time and/or your money. Ask for help if needed.
Where is your biggest and immediate growth potential? What healthy activity – aka daily/weekly goals (business or personal) - will give the most benefit immediately? Take the first step today in one areas and let that immediate success give you momentum to tackle the rest of your plans!

From the Mountain of Challenges to Oceans of Opportunity

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:25:54 GMT

Coaching several out-placed professionals through 10 weeks of career transition inspired me to take an honest look at my own situation. The past few years have seemed like climbing up a mountain of challenges, only to get to the top to be tempted (even overwhelmed) by oceans of opportunity in view. Now at the top, what do you think I might be inclined to do? Will I head down rugged trails to explore those new oceans glistening in the sun, most likely filled with new people and adventures?

Or, will I study the "map" of my business and life plan, then head in the direction already chartered, the one that will allow me to maintain my best pace and share my talents and wares with those I've already invested time and resources with?

Have you ever been in such a place? If you are embarking on a new job, career or business venture, you might be able to relate.

Which way should you go? How much of your past experiences and relationships do you build upon?

How ready are you to try a new thing? Is that courage or something less flattering and unhealthy?

How set in your ways are you? Are you relying on your experience and skills, or hanging onto a limiting belief that's keeping you from growing a bit?

If you have ever snow-skied or spoken with someone who has, you know that black diamond runs are more adventurous and dangerous, blue or yellow trails are intermediate (can be somewhat challenging but not too intense) and green runs tend to be the easiest way to ski down a mountain.

So, here we are upon our mountains of needs or challenges, ready to move forward on the success journey. Each of us must choose our own trail.

Which path down is your green slope . . . also known as the "comfort zone" and which is the black diamond trail of foolishness or great risk?

Logic says most of us would choose to head down a blue run, embracing an intermediate slope based on our mission, our predetermined budget, available time and innate talent.

But hey, logic doesn't always apply. Sometimes we do things from our emotions, and not our heads.

So how can we leave the mountaintop and proceed well, choosing the BEST career or business path?

Know and affirm your purpose (Why are you here; what seems to be your unique contribution to others?)
Clarify your vision and your values (If life is a puzzle, what does your puzzle box top look like? )
Set a course with feedback from wise counsel (Who do you know that is an expert, or is honest, mature, content, grounded, healthy and financially fit that you can speak to about your next steps?)

Even this 'expert' faces the slopes with uncertainty at times. So what do you think I am doing, in humility? I am listening to wise counsel, reviewing my purpose and plans, and heading down the blue path (not too easy, not too hard, but well-suited) . . . but only after shouting and pretending I can't ski!

For a discounted individual coaching rate, call Sandy today and use product code 'Oceans' 404-939-1569 or 404-841-7800.

Tips On Boosting Willpower

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tips On Boosting Willpower

Brain behavior expert and bestselling author Dr. Daniel Amen, M.D. reveals these 5 Tips to Boost Willpower:

Get a good night's sleep of 6 or more hours a night
Maintain healthy blood sugar levels by eating several small meals a day with some protein in each meal.
Practice. The more will power you practice, the more you actually have (it's like building muscle). Have a child? Help your child develop greater brain capacity for self-control and will power by saying "No" and teaching patience from toddler age upward.
Balance brain chemistry. Try natural supplements like 5-HTP and Green Tea, and seek professional help.
Focus and meditate on what you want. Write clearly stated goals on a sheet of paper and review daily asking yourself, "Is my behavior today getting me what I want?"

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Sandy

Building Trust through Authenticity

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leadership Lessons from the Dugout

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Imagine your workplace is really a baseball or softball game. Put your game cap on. (Being in the Big A, I'm thinking a Braves cap.)

Let's say at this point you've got one or two of your best hitters already on base. How are you going to get them back to home base? By rotating through the other players on the team and letting them go up to bat.

See those "players" as fresh reinforcements for the long innings ahead. You might be surprised at the blessings that will come from their perspective and increased manpower.

Deep breath. Put 'em in coach. Entertain new thoughts such as these and the feelings of cooperation and collaboration will follow.

7 Tips to Inspire Going the Extra Mile, or More!

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Make it easy to attend by confirming with details
Be there with a welcoming smile
Provide crossing guard cheerleaders
Pacing and walking in tandem builds confidence
Dancing and hit tunes a must - Pink Mohawk optional
Water and cookies refresh
Photo finish celebration

The August Journey that taught me these tips:
I learned more about how to inspire achievement and engagement one Sat. morning with an incredible group of women going for a walk, than I'd learned in two decades of professional experience.

A very special friend and mentor just faced breast cancer head-on this summer. Just weeks after surgery Martha informed me she has been walking dozens of miles each week to train for the Atlanta 2-Day for Breast Cancer for "It's the Journey" - a walkathon through the streets of Atlanta to help support Breast Cancer research, prevention and education programs.

Yearning for some girl time with my awesome friend (and knowing I could use the cardio exercise myself) I asked if I could be her walking partner for an upcoming training walk. In her usual enthusiasm, she accepted my request and a few days later called to confirm with directions and details.
With my own regular walks at best 3 miles a day, I assured Martha I would just come along for the first 6 miles . . . that was before I found myself in a well-orchestrated, collaborative effort between some pretty awesome people and God. (!)

I arrived for the event just minutes before we were due to head out. (Not my intention, but it was a restless night and I had somehow turned off my cell phone alarm in my sleep,causing me to also miss my quiet time and my cup of half-caff to prepare me mentally.)

Yet, there was Martha, grinning and stretching . . . and oddly, un-annoyed at my last-minute arrival. She warmly greeted me and introduced me to a few friends. Within minutes, the fun began and we began trecking through the streets of Sandy Springs in spite of dark clouds and occasional drizzle. (A blessing in August in the South.)

Within two blocks of the starting point, courteous gentlemen wearing orange crossing guard vests came cruising by on motorcycles, gently ushering us back onto the right of way out of the busy street.

Every few blocks we'd encounter these same men taking turns directing traffic, acting as crossing guards and cheerleaders, often with '70s and '80s dance music blaring from their radios . . . and always with a big smile and or nod of encouragement, whether they were being pelted by rain or waiving back confused Sat. morning drivers just sure they had a green light.

We girls walked and talked. And we walked and talked some more. Every few miles there was a water car, and every couple of blocks more dance music and smiling traffic guards. It was a party in motion.

Note to self: something about dance music helps reduce the throbbing of tired feet and the burn of the largest muscle in the body (caboose).

And before I knew it, we'd passed the 6-mile mark. In spite of protests from the soles of my feet and an odd twinge coming from the foot I'd twisted on a curb back at mile two, I grinned at my friend and my new walking buddies, took another swig of water, and continued onward. They didn't even have to talk me into it.

Within minutes, the precious cooling drizzle began again with a lovely breeze as well. (God wink) So refreshing!

Graciously, my long-legged friend paced herself for several miles helping me compensate for my not quite 5'4" stride that required me to chasse every few yards just to keep up with her. And we walked and talked, and she introduced me to more journey partners.

More talking, another safe street crossing, courtesy of that guy with the PINK mohawk on his helmet, traversing a few more hills (this is Atlanta!) . . . another water car - cookies too (passed on those since I full on the great conversation we were having) and more walking and talking.

And suddenly, we were back at the starting point and Martha had her camera out for pictures to celebrate our finish.

Three and a half hours after we'd begun, I'd walked the entire 12 miles. OMG!

Yes, it was the journey. A very well-orchestrated journey. Thanks to my mentor and very brave friend, Martha Lanier, and Randi (founder of It's the Journey) and all the awesome volunteers who entertained and ushered us safely along the route.

A huge thanks to my new "sisters" who inspired me to keep going, some who have fought the battle and won, others walking for family members (both men and women still in a battle), and some walking for those who went on to be with the Lord prematurely.

I learned more about inspiring achievement and engagement one Sat. morning from this incredible group of women, than I'd learned in two decades of on-the-job training, reading and attending training seminars!

5 Mental Fitness Discoveries to Change Your Life copyright 2008 Sandy R. Lawrence

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

We can choose to affect our hard-wired physiology and be transformed by the renewing of our minds.

Your mind is never neutral, it's always thinking.
Your mind can't think on two opposed things at once.
If you don't set your mind on something, it will default to thinking about something else.
Emotions and actions follow your thoughts.
Negatism and replaying negative events reinforces problems.

Your mind is never neutral -#1 Many brain studies show that we speak at a rate of 200 to 300 words per minute, yet our thoughts zoom (consciously and unconciously) at thousands of words per minute.

Your mind can't think on two opposed things at once-#2
Functioning MRI's and neuroscientic studies show that when your brain's left pre-frontal cortex, the part that generates contentment is active, it suppresses the right pre-frontal cortex that controls resentment and anger. Left pre-frontal cortex thinking enables us to feel more connected, more optimistic, hopeful, joyful, and energetic. See work by Dr. Richard Davidson, M.D. et al.

If you don't set your mind on something, it defaults to thinking about something else - # 3 (see point #1)

Emotions and actions follow thoughts - #4 (see point #2 and point #5)

Negatism and replaying negative events reinforces and makes problems worse - #5
Experts in the field of Positive Psychology, Barbara Frederickson and Marcial Losada, explain that when we focus on positive thoughts and experiences, we push back the negative tide of emotions and increase the likelihood of positive action. Frederickson, B. L., Losada, M. F., (2005). Positive Affect and the Complex Dynamics of Human Flourishing. American Psychologist, Vol. 60, No. 7, pp. 678-686.

Their research reveals that positive impressions widen the array of thoughts and actions facilitated (such as behavioral flexibility). Whereas negative emotions tend to narrow someone’s behavior to minimal life-preservation actions, such as inaction about a situation, or remaining in what is “comfortable” even if the situation is not beneficial or healthy.

In one of their experiments, a 28-day study, 188 participants provided daily reports of positive and negative sentiments or attitudes they experienced. Losada was able to calculate what is known as the “tipping point,” the mean ratio of positive to negative influences as being 2.9013. This is known as the Losada Line.

So, in order to overcome the toxicity of negative influences and to promote your own flourishing, make sure your positive thoughts outnumber negative ones by 3:1.

If you'd like to work with a coach or trainer who can translate these principles into practical and easy to apply disciplines for work and life success, please email me.

Blessings,
Sandy