A Glitch in the Matrix: Grace, Growth, and Getting a Grip

You know those days when nothing feels quite real, like you accidentally slipped into a parallel universe where time moves weird, your brain is buffering, and reality keeps glitching? Yeah — that was me last Friday.

It started with a terrible night’s sleep. You know, the kind where you wake up every hour thinking it's time to get up… only to find out you still have three hours until your alarm. By the time morning finally came, I had hit snooze so many times I actually missed the alarm altogether.

No big deal, I thought. I’ll just shift a few things. Until I looked at the clock.

I was already late.

Late for the first thing on my schedule — a meeting I wasn’t mentally (or physically) prepared for. I threw on something vaguely presentable and bolted. As I sat there trying to participate like a functioning adult, I felt that internal tug: I forgot something.

And then it hit me.

I had a second engagement — something important. Something I had committed to with a friend. Something I was supposed to be dressed up for.

Cue the stomach drop.

She was already there. Waiting. And I wasn’t there.  She called me.  I had to admit it slipped my mind.  Then I had to get ready fast and get there.

The Spiral

I could feel the shame rising. That voice in my head started in with the greatest hits:

• “You’re so unreliable.”

• “You can’t even manage a calendar?”

• “Why did you say yes if you couldn’t follow through?”

But then something strange happened — something that felt like a glitch in the matrix in the best way.

Instead of continuing the freefall into self-loathing, another voice quietly cut in:

“Hey. You messed up.  But you’re human.  Give yourself some grace.  Then get a grip.”

And that became the theme of my day.

Giving Myself Grace

Let me be clear: I hate disappointing people. And I especially hate disappointing myself. But grace doesn’t mean pretending it didn’t happen — it means looking at what did happen and responding with compassion, not punishment.

• Grace meant texting my friend and owning it fully: “I completely forgot, and I am truly sorry. I will be there in 10 minutes.”

• Grace meant not catastrophizing this one off-day as a reflection of my character.

• Grace meant recognizing that sleep deprivation and mental clutter aren’t moral failings — they’re warning signs.

Getting a Grip

But grace isn’t the end of the story — it’s the middle.

After the apology and the deep breath, it was time to regroup.

Here’s how I “got a grip”:

1. Checked my calendar for the rest of the week (and set notifications for everything).

2. Asked myself honestly: What systems failed? (Answer: Relying on my memory instead of my two calendars. Again.)

3. Committed to a better sleep routine for the next few nights, not as punishment — but as a reset.

A Final Thought

We all have those “glitch in the matrix” days. Days that start sideways and spiral from there. But they don’t define us.

You are allowed to:

• Be forgetful.

• Be late.

• Disappoint someone.

• Mess up your day.

And still be a good person. A responsible person. A growing person.

Give yourself grace. Then get a grip. And then — try again tomorrow.

Because tomorrow isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present — and ready for the next glitch.

Happy Thursday you amazing humans,

-srt

Real Leaders Create Culture

Culture isn’t something you hang on the wall. It’s not a mission statement or a catchy slogan. Culture is what people feel every day. It’s shaped by what leaders choose to say, do, reward, and even what they ignore. Every meeting, every interaction, every decision adds another brushstroke to the bigger picture of how it feels to belong to a group, a team, a company, or a community.

Leadership, at its core, is about responsibility—not power. And one of the most important responsibilities of a leader is shaping the kind of environment where people can grow, thrive, and bring their best. Whether you're leading a corporate team, a classroom, a nonprofit group, or your own family, your influence sets the tone.

You don’t need a title to influence culture. You just need to be intentional.

The best leaders—at work, in community groups, even in families—lead by example. They know that every day, in every interaction, they are sending a message about what matters.

• If we say kindness matters but gossip behind someone’s back, we’re not creating a kind culture.
• If we value teamwork but reward competition, we’re not creating a collaborative environment.
• If we talk about inclusion but don’t invite different voices to the table, people notice.

Culture is always watching.

Think about the most impactful leaders you've known. Chances are, it wasn’t their title that made the difference—it was their character. They showed up with empathy. They were clear in their values. They followed through on their word. They didn’t just talk about collaboration or kindness or innovation—they lived it. And that consistency? That’s what shapes culture.

It’s the Little Things That Add Up

Culture is shaped in the small, everyday moments—not just the big, visible ones. Like:

• How we respond when someone shares a new idea.
• Whether we listen without interrupting.
• How we support someone who’s struggling.
• The way we handle disagreement—with curiosity or defensiveness.

These things might seem minor, but together, they define how it feels to be part of the group.

Culture is created by the example leaders set, the behaviors they encourage, and the standards they uphold. It shows in how mistakes are handled, how conflict is addressed, and who feels seen and heard. It lives in how people feel at the start of their day—and at the end of it.

YOU are a Culture Creator

Whether you lead a team, a classroom, a household, or a volunteer project—you are creating culture.

• With your tone.
• With your decisions.
• With your priorities.
• With what you model when you think no one’s watching.
• With what you post on social media.

The question isn’t if you’re shaping culture. It’s what kind of culture you’re creating.

Your Legacy Lives in the Culture You Build

Everyone can help shape the space they’re part of. But real leaders—the ones who choose to lead with intention—know that their legacy isn’t just in what they achieve. It’s in how they make others feel along the way.

Long after a task is done or a goal is reached, people remember how they felt under your leadership.

They remember if they felt safe.
They remember if they felt seen.
They remember if they felt like they mattered.

Real leaders know this.
They choose to lead not just for results—but for people.
And they take culture seriously because they understand: culture creates everything else.

The truth is, culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s created—by you, by me, by all of us showing up every day with purpose, presence, and heart.

Want to build something that lasts?

Start by being the kind of leader who builds a culture where people thrive.

Because real leaders don’t just react to culture.

They create it.

Happy Thursday, you amazing culture creator,

-srt

Leadership is About Influence, Not Authority

When you hear the word “leader,” what comes to mind? A title? A corner office? A seat at the table? While those may be symbols of leadership, they’re not the source of it. True leadership isn’t about authority. It’s about influence.

Authority is Assigned. Influence is Earned.

Anyone can be given a title, but not everyone can inspire others to follow. Authority relies on hierarchy and structure. Influence, however, comes from trust, respect, and the ability to connect with people on a deeper level. It’s built over time through consistency, credibility, and character.

Think of the leaders who have impacted your life the most. Chances are, their influence didn’t come from power—they earned it through their integrity, their example, and their ability to lift others up.

Influence Transcends Position

Some of the most powerful leaders don’t have formal leadership roles. They’re the people who others turn to for advice, who bring people together, who model the behavior they want to see in others. They shape culture, drive change, and inspire action—without needing to pull rank.

This is especially important in today’s world, where collaboration, agility, and innovation are prized. Leadership isn’t confined to a chain of command—it’s woven into the everyday moments where we choose to step up, speak out, and serve others.

Leaders Influence by Example

Leadership by influence starts with self-leadership. If you want others to trust your voice, they need to see you walking your talk. Whether you’re showing up with empathy, making space for diverse perspectives, or navigating challenges with resilience, your actions are your most persuasive argument.

The most influential leaders are those who:

• Listen before they speak
• Serve before they direct
• Empower instead of control
• Coach instead of command

The Ripple Effect of Influence

When you lead with influence, your impact multiplies. Instead of compliance, you get commitment. Instead of resistance, you foster engagement. People feel seen, heard, and valued—and that kind of environment creates high-performing teams, strong cultures, and lasting change.

As John Maxwell famously said, “Leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less.” Titles may open doors, but influence opens minds.

So ask yourself:

• Who do you want to influence?
• What kind of impact do you want to leave?
• Are you leading from your position—or from your principles?

True leadership doesn’t require a title. It requires heart, intention, and the courage to show up for others in a way that lifts them higher.

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

Be the Leader You Wish You Had

Think back to the best leader you’ve ever worked with.

What made them unforgettable? Was it their empathy? Their ability to listen? The way they had your back, even when things got tough?

Now think about the worst leader you’ve had. The one who made you feel small. The one who withheld recognition, dismissed your ideas, or led with fear instead of trust.

These experiences—both good and bad—shape us. They show us what leadership can look like, and what it shouldn’t. And they give us a choice:

To either repeat the leadership we endured or become the leader we always needed.

Your Leadership Legacy Starts Now

You don’t have to wait until you’re a VP or have a corner office to start leading with intention. Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about impact. And the most impactful leaders are often shaped by what they didn’t get from those who came before them.

Maybe you never had a mentor who believed in you > Be that mentor now.

Maybe your ideas were ignored > Be the leader who creates space for every voice.

Maybe you were managed with fear > Lead with trust, not control.

Empathy Over Ego

It’s easy to lead from habit. It’s harder—but more powerful—to lead from awareness.

The leader you wish you had probably wasn’t perfect. But they likely made you feel seen, safe, and supported. They celebrated your wins, challenged you to grow, and guided you through uncertainty without making you feel less than.

You can be that leader—whether you’re managing a team of ten or just starting your first job.

Lead with empathy.  Lead with curiosity.  Lead like someone’s career depends on it—because it might.

The Ripple Effect of Great Leadership

When you lead with intention, your influence reaches far beyond deadlines and deliverables. You shape cultures. You unlock confidence. You model what’s possible for others.

Here’s the truth:

You don’t just change your team—you change people’s lives.

Years from now, someone will say you were the leader they’ll never forget. The one who listened. The one who believed. The one who inspired.

Remember:  Leadership is Personal

At the end of the day, leadership is deeply personal. It’s not just about KPIs or project plans—it’s about people. And every day, you get the chance to choose what kind of leader you will be.

So ask yourself:

• Am I leading from fear or from purpose?
• Am I managing tasks or empowering people?
• Am I the kind of leader I wish I had?

You don’t have to be perfect.  Just present.  Just human.

Be the leader you wish you had—and watch how others rise.

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

P.S. Happy MayDay! 

18 Books, 3 Months, One Incredible Journey

One of the most rewarding parts of life is the chance to learn and grow—and for me, books are one of the best ways to do just that. From thought-provoking nonfiction to imaginative fiction, each story has brought fresh insight, joy, and curiosity. 

Okay, you curious minds ...you asked about the books I have read already in 2025 (yes, I am on track to beating my 25 in 2025 goal - booyah!) and if I would read any again ... below is the list with a sentence for each.  

Here’s a look at the 18 books that shaped my world so far this year:

1. A Promised Land by Barack Obama
   A thoughtful, candid memoir that dives deep into leadership, hope, and the complexities of public service. Truly inspiring for anyone who believes in change and integrity.
2. Washington by Ron Chernow
   A masterclass in biography. This portrait of George Washington goes far beyond the legend, offering lessons in perseverance, vision, and nation-building.  Seriously though, I kept hearing “One Last Time” from Hamilton over and over while reading.
3. The Three Lives of James Madison by Noah Feldman
   An enlightening read about the evolution of political thought and the birth of American democracy. Madison’s adaptability is a true study in intellectual bravery.
4. We Are All the Same in the Dark by Julia Heaberlin
   A haunting and beautifully written mystery that blends suspense with emotional depth. It explores the power of perspective and the hidden truths in small towns.
5. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
   A psychological thriller with layers of secrets and suspense. It kept me turning pages while reminding me how appearances can be so deceiving.  Thank you Book Club!
6. Didn't See That Coming by Rachel Hollis
   This one’s all about bouncing back. It’s an empowering read that champions the idea of growth through adversity.
7. The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
   Short, sharp, and packed with wisdom. It changed how I think about leadership and communication—ask more, talk less!
8. My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
   A heart-wrenching story that made me reflect deeply on ethics, love, and sacrifice. Picoult’s storytelling is as emotional as it is thought-provoking.
9. The Maid's Secret by Nita Prose
   A follow-up that doubled down on intrigue. We learn about the Grays and the history of the Faberge.  It’s about peeling back layers to find truth in the most unexpected places.
10. Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
    A modern reimagining of David Copperfield set in Appalachia. It’s raw, powerful, and gives voice to the struggles of a forgotten region.
11. The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
    Mystery and magical realism meet in this captivating story about identity and time. A great reminder that finding yourself can be a winding path. Thank you Book Club!
12. How We Learn to Be Brave by Mariann Edgar Budde
    One of the most inspiring reads of the year. It’s about building courage in the everyday, and it left me with a stronger sense of purpose.
13. The Women by Kristin Hannah
    A gripping historical novel that shines a light on the women who served in Vietnam. It's a tribute to strength, resilience, and untold heroism.
14. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
    A beautiful meditation on regret, choice, and the infinite possibilities of life. This one hit me right in the soul. Thank you Book Club!
15. Bearing God’s Name by Carmen Joy Imes
    A deep and enriching look into the meaning behind carrying God's name as His people. It offered new understanding and spiritual clarity. Thank you Bridgeway Christian Church Bible Study for this faith moving book!
16. The Wedding People by Alison Espach
    Quirky, heartfelt, and sharply observant. This novel captures the complex dynamics of relationships and the unexpected beauty of connection.
17. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
    An energizing, motivational guide to letting go of control and embracing what you can’t change. A breath of fresh air for the overthinkers among us.  I can't praise this book enough! 
18. How Leaders Learn by Novak
    A valuable resource on the psychology of leadership and the ways experience shapes great leaders. It’s full of lessons I’ll carry into both work and life.

What I’ve Learned So Far

These stories have stretched my heart and mind. They’ve reminded me that every life—real or fictional—holds wisdom. Whether I was learning how to lead, finding strength in adversity, or just escaping into a gripping narrative, each book was a step in my personal growth.

Twist my arm for my favorite as there are three (maybe four) that I would read over and over and over again.  Wager a guess to which three in the comments below.  

Here’s to the next chapter. 📖💫

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

Rising Above: How to Work With (and Around) BIG Personalities in Every Part of Life

There’s a truth we don’t talk about enough: BIG personalities don’t disappear after high school. They evolve.

They show up in college group projects, on community boards, in volunteer circles, and sometimes even around the dinner table. These are the people who thrive on being in control — dominating conversations, pushing boundaries, or dismissing others — and no matter where you find them, the impact can feel just as personal.

But here’s the good news: you're not powerless. Not in class. Not in a meeting. Not in life.

Let’s talk about how to stand your ground, protect your peace, and stay empowered when faced with BIG personalities — wherever they show up.

1. Name It Without Shame

BIG personalities don’t always shout. Sometimes, they use sarcasm that cuts too deep, the silent treatment that isolates, or “jokes” that hit below the belt. They may hide behind popularity, seniority, or a leadership role.

But whether it’s the president of a student club, a board member in a nonprofit, or that one peer who talks over everyone — remember this: power moves are not leadership.

Calling out toxic or dominating behavior doesn’t make you weak — it gives you clarity and control.

2. Don’t Shrink — Strategize

People with overpowering personalities often thrive on reactions. They want to feel big by making others feel small.

So instead of getting pulled into their emotional storm, anchor yourself. Stay calm. Speak clearly. Take the high road — but don't be silent.

• In class? “I’d like to finish my thought before we move on.”

• In a club meeting? “Let’s hear from someone who hasn’t spoken yet.”

• In a conversation? “That doesn’t feel constructive — can we focus on a solution?”

You don’t have to match their energy. You just have to own yours.

3. Set Boundaries Like a Boss

Boundaries are not walls — they’re guardrails for respect.

You can be kind and assertive. Compassionate and clear. And sometimes, a simple “That’s not okay with me” is enough to shift the tone.

In school, service, or at home — you deserve to feel safe and heard. Boundaries tell others how to treat you. And the right people? They’ll respect them.

4. Build a Circle That Builds You Back

Dealing with intense personalities can feel isolating. They may make you question your instincts, your voice, even your worth.

That’s why it’s essential to find your people — the classmate who backs you up, the friend who listens without judgment, the mentor who reminds you of your value, the "joy tribe" in your non-profit. You don’t have to navigate it alone.

And here’s the secret: when you speak up, you don’t just empower yourself — you give others permission to do the same.

5. Protect Your Peace Like It’s Sacred (Because It Is)

Your peace is not up for negotiation.

People with overpowering personalities don’t get to define your worth — you do. So take space when you need it. Journal. Meditate. Move your body. Laugh with friends. Set limits. Say no. Say yes — to what feeds your soul.

You don’t need to win every argument. You just need to stay true to yourself.

Final Word: Your Power Was Never Theirs to Take

BIG personalities might be loud, but your calm, your clarity, and your quiet strength? That’s louder.

Whether it’s a dominating peer, an overbearing teammate, or someone who constantly takes up too much space — remember:

You can rise without permission.
You can speak without shouting.
You can be powerful without being cruel.

And when you do? You don’t just protect your peace — you inspire others to stand in their own.

Stand tall. Speak true. And never shrink for someone else’s comfort.

You’ve got this.

Happy Thursday lovelies,

-srt

Helping Students Shine: Readying for Real-World Interviews

The past three days, I have had the privilege of volunteering at our local high school, where I helped students prepare for job interviews through a series of mock interviews. We spent three days together, two hours each day—and I left inspired by their energy, their potential, and their desire to make a great first impression.

These sessions weren’t just about resumes and practice questions. They were about building confidence, presence, and professionalism—skills that many adults still work on throughout their careers.

Here are a few key takeaways I shared with the students that apply to anyone preparing for an interview, whether it’s your first or your fiftieth.

1. Be Careful of Verbal Crutches

We all have them—those little words we lean on when we’re nervous or thinking out loud:

“Like…” “Um…” “You know…” “Basically…”

They’re common, but they can be distracting. They often give the impression that you’re unsure or unprepared, even when you’re not.

Tip: Practice your responses out loud and record yourself. The more aware you are of your verbal habits, the easier it is to replace them with purposeful pauses or clear transitions.

2. Make Eye Contact

Eye contact signals confidence and engagement. It says: “I’m present. I’m listening. I respect your time.”

Avoid staring, of course—this isn’t a staring contest—but aim to hold natural, steady eye contact when you’re speaking or listening. If you’re on a panel interview, be sure to shift your attention between each person thoughtfully.

3. A Good Handshake Still Matters

Even in an increasingly virtual world, the power of a solid handshake remains. It’s one of the first impressions you make—and it’s often remembered.

A good handshake is firm but not crushing, paired with a friendly greeting and a smile. Practice it with friends or family until it feels natural.

4. Answer the Question—Then Stop

When you’re nervous, it’s easy to ramble. You start answering a question and before you know it, you’re circling the topic without making your point.

Answer clearly. Add context. Then pause. It’s okay to take a breath. Interviewers value clarity and thoughtfulness over overly polished or lengthy answers.

5. Come with Questions for the Interviewer

This is one of the most overlooked parts of interview prep—and one of the easiest ways to stand out.

When an interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for me?”—they’re not just being polite. They’re testing your interest and engagement. Come prepared with thoughtful questions that show you’ve done your homework and that you care about fit, culture, and contribution.

Some great questions might be:

• What do you enjoy most about working here?
• What does success look like in this role?
• Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with?

And, please remember, Interviews Are Conversations, Not Interrogations

The mock interviews reminded me of something I wish more people knew: You’re not just being evaluated—you’re evaluating too. You’re seeing if the role, the culture, and the company are a fit for you.

So prepare. Practice. Polish your presence. But also remember to be curious, open, and authentic. That’s where real connection begins.

And to all the students I met: I believe in you. The future is brighter with you in it.

Happy Thursday lovelies,

-srt

P.S. What do you think friends?  Have I missed anything you would have added?

Protecting Women’s Rights: A Responsibility, Not a Privilege

Twenty years ago, I put up a curtain in my cubicle for privacy. It seemed like such a small thing—an attempt to create a space where I could focus and work more comfortably. But soon after, a woman from the facilities team came by and asked me to take it down. First, I resisted, but she was holding her ground.  Finally, she looked at me intently and said something I have never forgotten:

“Rights can be given, and rights can be taken away.”

She went on to share her own powerful and moving story. 

Twenty + years before that moment, she had marched in protests for women’s rights. She had endured insults, had things thrown at her, and had been called vile names—all for fighting for something we now take for granted: a woman’s right to own a home and have access to credit without a male cosigner.

Her words stopped me in my tracks. I had never truly considered the fragility of the rights I had been fortunate enough to grow up with. The ability to own property, to have financial independence, to work in a male-dominated industry—these weren’t always guaranteed. They were fought for, and they were won, but as history has shown time and again, they can also be lost.

The Fight is Never Over

Women’s rights have come a long way, but they remain under constant threat. Laws change. Attitudes shift. And too often, people assume that progress is a straight line forward when history is full of steps forward and backward. The past few years have demonstrated this all too clearly—whether it’s access to healthcare, workplace protections, or economic opportunities, the battles that generations before us fought are resurfacing in new forms.

When we forget the struggles of the past, we risk repeating them. That woman from facilities had lived through an era where women had to fight for basic financial autonomy. Today, new challenges arise—unequal pay, workplace discrimination, threats to medical decisions—but the principle remains the same: no right is permanent unless we continue to defend it.

What Can We Do?

1. Educate and Remember

History is our greatest teacher. Understanding the struggles of those who came before us—whether it’s the suffragettes, the women’s liberation movement, or modern-day activists—reminds us that rights are not granted out of goodwill; they are won through persistence and collective action.

2. Speak Up and Challenge Inequality

Just as that woman reminded me of the fight she endured, we must remind others that equality is not a given. If you see injustice—whether it’s in the workplace, in legislation, or in everyday life—call it out. Complacency is the enemy of progress.

3. Support Organizations Protecting Women’s Rights

Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, supporting groups that fight for women’s rights ensures that those battles continue to be fought. Organizations focused on legal protection, economic empowerment, and policy change are crucial in keeping our rights intact.

4. Empower the Next Generation

The rights we enjoy today came from the sacrifices of past generations. It’s our responsibility to ensure that future generations not only maintain those rights but expand them. Mentorship, education, and leadership opportunities for young women help pave the way for continued progress.

The conversation I had that day with Cathie in my cubicle stayed with me because it was a wake-up call. I had assumed that my rights were permanent, but the truth is, no progress is ever truly secure.

We must remain vigilant. We must continue to advocate. And most importantly, we must never take for granted the rights that were hard-won by those who came before us.

Because if history has taught us anything, it’s that rights can be given—but they can also be taken away.

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

Understanding the Johari Window: A Key Tool for Professional Growth

Effective communication and self-awareness are essential for growth and success in both personal and professional life. I recently participated in an Executive Coaching course, where I was introduced to a powerful tool that enhances these qualities: the Johari Window. Developed by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in 1955, the Johari Window is a psychological model designed to help individuals better understand their relationships with themselves and others. For professionals looking to improve self-awareness, teamwork, and communication, the Johari Window can be a game-changer.

What Is the Johari Window?

The Johari Window is a simple but effective framework designed to improve self-awareness and mutual understanding between individuals within a group. It is divided into four quadrants that represent different aspects of self-knowledge, both known and unknown:

1. Open Area (Arena)

   • This is the part of ourselves that we and others are aware of. It includes behaviors, skills, and information that are openly shared, such as professional expertise, personal interests, or values.
   • Professional Impact: Building and expanding this area helps foster clear, transparent communication and trust in teams.

2. Blind Area

   • These are aspects of ourselves that others know, but we do not. This could include habits, mannerisms, or ways of communicating that are obvious to others but not to us.
   • Professional Impact: Identifying blind spots can help professionals become more self-aware and improve their interactions with colleagues.

3. Hidden Area (Façade)

   • This section represents things we know about ourselves but keep hidden from others, such as fears, personal issues, or doubts.
   • Professional Impact: Sharing more of this area can lead to stronger, more authentic connections with teammates and superiors, promoting better collaboration and reducing misunderstandings.

4. Unknown Area

   • The unknown quadrant contains things that neither we nor others know about us, such as untapped potential or subconscious behaviors.
   • Professional Impact: Expanding this area can be achieved through personal development, training, or feedback from colleagues, unlocking new strengths and perspectives.

Why Is the Johari Window Important for Professionals?

1. Enhances Self-Awareness
   In any professional setting, knowing yourself is the first step toward growth. By examining the four quadrants of the Johari Window, individuals can identify areas where they may have blind spots or hidden strengths. For example, if you receive consistent feedback that you’re a strong communicator but never realized it yourself, expanding your "open area" can help you embrace that strength. Understanding yourself better allows you to play to your strengths, improve your weaknesses, and become more effective at work.

2. Improves Team Dynamics
   In a team environment, understanding how each person views themselves and others can greatly improve collaboration. The Johari Window encourages open communication, where individuals share more about themselves and seek feedback from others. This openness reduces misunderstandings, minimizes conflicts, and creates a more transparent, trusting environment. Teams that operate with a well-developed “open area” tend to be more cohesive and productive.

3. Builds Trust and Reduces Tension
   A culture of feedback and openness fosters trust. When professionals are willing to share parts of themselves they might otherwise keep hidden, they allow others to gain a fuller understanding of their perspectives. This leads to stronger relationships and a deeper sense of camaraderie. In contrast, a “hidden area” left unchecked can create barriers to effective teamwork and communication.

4. Facilitates Personal and Professional Growth
   The Johari Window provides a clear map for personal development. If you recognize that you have areas of growth in the “blind” or “hidden” quadrants, you can take proactive steps to address them—whether through soliciting feedback, participating in training, or becoming more open with your colleagues. Over time, expanding your "open area" increases your emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and ability to engage with others, all of which are essential for career success.

5. Encourages Constructive Feedback
   The Johari Window thrives on feedback, making it a powerful tool for professional environments where ongoing feedback is key to improvement. By encouraging a culture where team members regularly share their thoughts and provide constructive feedback, professionals can eliminate misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page. When feedback is given and received effectively, it directly enhances both individual and team performance.

How to Implement the Johari Window in the Workplace

1. Self-Reflection
   Start by assessing your own “open area.” What are your strengths, and how can you communicate them effectively to others? What areas are you hiding, and why? Self-reflection helps you understand where you can begin expanding your "open area."

2. Seek and Offer Feedback
   Request feedback from colleagues and supervisors to identify any blind spots. Likewise, offer constructive feedback to others in a supportive, non-judgmental way to help them grow. Incorporating regular feedback into your professional routine can create a more open and collaborative culture.

3. Promote Transparency
   In meetings, projects, and one-on-one conversations, encourage transparency by sharing information openly. Acknowledge both successes and challenges to show vulnerability and strengthen relationships.

4. Provide Opportunities for Development
   Encourage your team to explore and develop their hidden and unknown areas. This can be through mentoring, training, or self-development programs that bring new talents to the forefront.

5. Create a Safe Space for Growth
   Acknowledge that expanding the Johari Window takes time and requires trust. Make sure your workplace fosters an environment where employees feel safe sharing, asking for feedback, and challenging themselves to grow without fear of judgment.

The Johari Window is not just a theoretical model; it is a practical tool for personal and professional growth. By increasing self-awareness, promoting openness, and encouraging feedback, professionals can create more productive, harmonious, and successful teams. Whether you are an individual contributor or a leader, using the Johari Window can help unlock new opportunities for development, collaboration, and success in the workplace. By embracing the principles behind this model, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself (and others), paving the way for stronger relationships (and more effective teams).

Happy Thursday all,

-srt

P.S. To help you with the Johari Window, I have an Johari Window Worksheet that provides an introduction and instructions that I can send you.  Email me at stacyth@yahoo.com and I will send you the pdf.  

Hate Needs Attention to Thrive: How to Stop Feeding It

In today’s world, hate often takes center stage — whether it’s online, in the media, or even in our personal interactions. The presence of hate can feel overwhelming, but here’s the truth: hate needs attention to thrive. Without an audience, it fades into the background. Unfortunately, the more we share hateful messages, amplify negative narratives, or engage in online arguments, the more hate grows. But the good news is, we have the power to stop feeding it and diminish its impact.

Why Hate Needs Attention

Hate thrives on division and fear. It feeds off emotional reactions and sensationalism. In the digital age, where information spreads rapidly and attention spans are short, hate can spread quickly when amplified. The algorithms that govern our social media platforms prioritize posts that provoke strong emotional responses, often prioritizing outrage and divisiveness. The more likes, shares, and comments a post receives, the more likely it is to be seen by others, perpetuating the cycle.

But remember, hate is like a cancer that destroys from within. The more we focus on it, the more it spreads.

When we engage with hate—whether by commenting, sharing, or reacting—we give it the attention it craves. Even responding with counterarguments can sometimes amplify its reach, as the algorithm values engagement, not the content itself. This means that hate, fueled by attention, continues to spread, becoming more deeply ingrained in our cultural dialogue.

How Hate Manipulates Our Emotions

Hate has a unique ability to tap into our most primal instincts: fear, anger, and mistrust. These emotions demand immediate responses, which is why hate-filled content often goes viral. In the face of these emotions, it’s easy to forget the bigger picture and react impulsively, sharing, commenting, or engaging in ways that only further perpetuate the cycle.

Many are manipulated into thinking that engaging with hate is the only way to challenge it. It’s tempting to believe that we need to fight fire with fire or respond to hate with louder voices of disagreement. But this often leads to more noise, more hate, and more division.

Stopping the Cycle: How We Can Stop Feeding Hate

1. Stop Engaging with Hateful Content
   One of the most powerful ways to stop feeding hate is by simply not engaging with it. It may feel satisfying to argue or call out harmful rhetoric, but the reality is: the more we engage with hate, the more we fuel it. Instead, choose to focus on content that promotes understanding, kindness, and positivity. Remember, the best way to defeat hate is by ignoring it. The more attention you give it, the stronger it becomes.
2. Use Your Platforms for Good
   We all have the ability to shape the discourse around us. Whether online, in personal conversations, or in community spaces, we can choose to elevate voices of empathy, solidarity, and inclusivity. By sharing content that inspires, educates, and promotes compassion, we shift the narrative away from hate and toward love and understanding.
3. Mute or Block Hateful Voices
   If you encounter individuals or accounts that regularly promote hate, consider muting or blocking them. By removing these voices from your online experience, you stop amplifying their message and avoid triggering emotional responses. This isn’t about ignoring issues or disagreements, but rather about choosing where and how to direct your attention.
4. Encourage Constructive Conversations
   Instead of responding to hate with more hate, strive to engage in thoughtful, respectful dialogue. Ask questions, listen to understand, and approach difficult conversations with the intent to find common ground. This not only dismantles hate but also promotes a culture of empathy and mutual respect.
5. Limit Your Consumption of Negative News
   The media often amplifies negative news because it attracts attention. While it’s important to stay informed, it’s equally important to be mindful of how much negative content we consume. Take breaks from the news, follow accounts that focus on positive stories, and remember that balance is key to mental well-being.
6. Model Empathy and Kindness in Your Everyday Life
   It’s easy to get caught up in the negativity of the world, but we can all make a difference by embodying empathy and kindness in our day-to-day interactions. A simple act of kindness can ripple out and inspire others to do the same, creating a positive feedback loop that counters the divisiveness of hate.

The Power of Silence

Sometimes, the most powerful response to hate is no response at all. Silence, especially in the face of something designed to provoke us, can be incredibly powerful. By choosing not to give attention to hate, we deny it the fuel it needs to continue. When we stop engaging with hate, we create space for love, understanding, and progress.

In a world where hate often demands our attention, it’s essential to remember that it only thrives when we give it power. Martin Luther King, Jr., said, “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”  With this, he is reminding us that by choosing to disengage from hate and directing our energy toward positive, meaningful actions, we can make a significant difference in combating the negativity around us. 

Together, we can stop feeding hate and create a more compassionate, loving and connected world.  Let's start today.  <3

Happy Thursday all,

-srt