Create new habits instead (The Secondhand Inspiration Project). The Secondhand Inspiration Project begins with a motivational quote and ventures wherever the creative path meanders. “First, forget inspiration. Habit is more dependable. Habit will sustain you whether you’re inspired or not.” -Octavia Butler Many people believe their motivation and willpower are…

Because who can’t use a bit of motivation every once in a while? One effective way to sustain a habit of deliberate optimism is by using daily affirmations. Affirmations are statements repeated regularly to help you focus on goals and reinforce your belief in your ability to achieve them. They…

A simple roadmap to becoming your future self (The Secondhand Inspiration Project). The Secondhand Inspiration Project begins with a motivational quote and ventures wherever the creative path meanders. Vanessa Williams is an American actress, singer, and former beauty pageant titleholder who has significantly impacted the entertainment industry. Williams became the…

Tiny habits can make a huge impact. 1. Try mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation is a routine that involves focusing your attention on your breath and bodily sensations in the present moment. Consistent meditation — even for short durations daily — can help you cultivate awareness and clarity. It can also reduce stress and anxiety. 2. Engage in mindful activities. …

My answer actually surprised me. Looking back, I have been lucky in my career. Many folks I know have had nothing but piles of overbearing micromanagers and strict bosses littering the landscape of their work lives. Sure, I have seen my share of pieces of professional garbage during my years…

Tell the right people about your goals. The kitchen sink is overflowing with dirty dishes that need cleaning. Your tax info sits on a desk, waiting for you to work on them. A memo is due for a client, but you have not even turned on your laptop. Your life…

Cringeworthy stuff. Early in my first job out of college, I caught my new employer with a lie about what my working hours were — they were a lot more than what he first cited during my interview. But I was young and eager and in dues-paying mode. A few…

Here is my humble answer to an age-old question. A newbie in my Toastmasters club recently asked — What characteristics do good speeches have? They had cracked open a Pandora’s Box. That was a deceptively simple question but one with a layered answer. A million people would dole out a…

Let’s pull back the curtain on how. How are your broken dreams blueprints for success? Each failure you experience is a dress rehearsal for some future act of your life where you will become destined to win. But remember that you are the protagonist in this lifelong play. …