 Dear friends,
I want to take a moment to speak to those of you who have been through abuse, hurt, and mistreatment. I know it can be hard to see the light in the midst of darkness, but I want you to know that there are people who care about you and want to see you succeed. You may feel like you're not good enough, like you don't deserve love, or like you're stuck in a cycle of pain. But I want to tell you that you are worthy of all the good things life has to offer. You are capable of achieving great things, and you have so much potential within you. I know it's hard to believe in yourself when others have torn you down. But you are not defined by your past, and you have the power to change your future. It may take time, and it may be a difficult journey, but I promise you that it's worth it. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, who encourage you, and who believe in you. You don't have to go through this alone. There are those who will stand by you every step of the way and will celebrate with you when you achieve your goals. Remember that you are not alone, and you are not forgotten. You are loved, and you are valuable. Your greatness is waiting to be revealed, and I cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish. I want to encourage you to take the next step on your journey and burn the ships in your past. I know it can be scary to leave behind what you're familiar with, even if it's caused you pain. But in order to move forward with confidence, you must let go of what's holding you back. Burn the ships behind you, so that there is no turning back. It's time to start anew and embrace the possibilities that are waiting for you. Learn to love yourself and take care of yourself, without feeling guilty or selfish. Self-care is essential for your wellbeing and growth. Surround yourself with friends who authentically care for you, who will support and uplift you as you move forward. It's not selfish to want more for yourself and to pursue your dreams. I want to challenge you to take action today. Move towards your goals, even if it's just a small step. Growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones and take risks. And finally, it's time to shine. You have so much potential within you, and I believe that you will achieve great things. Let your light shine and inspire others to do the same. Remember, you are not alone. You have a community of people who believe in you and want to see you succeed. Take the next step with confidence, and don't look back. With love and hope, Dr. Layne Mcdonald
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 "Neurodiversity is not a liability, it is an asset, and if harnessed effectively, it can provide a significant competitive advantage to corporations in the United States." - Dr. John Elder Robison, Neurodiversity Advocate
Research shows that individuals with neurodiverse traits, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette's syndrome, and others, possess unique skills and abilities that can significantly benefit organizations. In fact, a study by Harvard Business Review found that teams with neurodiverse members outperformed homogenous teams in terms of productivity, quality, and creativity. The top ten neurodiversities and the potential benefits they offer companies if nurtured to their fullest potential are:
Solid evidence of the power of neurodiversity in corporate America can be seen in the success of companies such as SAP and Microsoft, which have implemented neurodiversity hiring programs and have seen significant improvements in productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction. Embracing Neurodiversity: The Key to Innovation and Inclusion in Corporate America According to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 6 children in the United States have a developmental disability such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia. While these conditions can present challenges, they can also be accompanied by unique strengths and abilities that are valuable in the workplace. This is why neurodiversity - the idea that the human brain naturally varies in its functions and processing abilities - is an important concept for employers to embrace. A growing number of companies are recognizing the benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace and are implementing hiring practices that focus on diverse talent. For example, software company SAP launched its Autism at Work initiative in 2013, which has now expanded to include other neurodiverse traits. The program has been highly successful, with neurodiverse employees proving to be highly productive and innovative, and has since inspired other companies to implement similar initiatives. Studies have shown that teams with neurodiverse members outperform homogenous teams in terms of productivity, quality, and creativity. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that "a team with a neurodiverse composition that receives training on how to manage their differences can see productivity rise by as much as 30%." Furthermore, neurodiverse individuals often possess unique skills that are highly sought after in certain industries. For example, individuals with autism are known for their exceptional attention to detail, pattern recognition, and strong memory recall, which can be highly beneficial in fields such as data analysis, software development, and quality assurance. Similarly, individuals with dyslexia are known for their strong verbal and nonverbal communication skills, as well as their ability to think outside the box, which can be highly beneficial in fields such as sales, public relations, and graphic design. Employers can also benefit from creating a more inclusive workplace culture. In a survey by Accenture, 92% of respondents said that they believe that neurodiversity is important to the future success of their company. A study by Deloitte found that companies with an inclusive culture are twice as likely to meet or exceed financial targets, and twice as likely to be innovative. It is important for employers to recognize that creating an inclusive workplace for neurodiverse individuals requires more than just diversity training. It requires an understanding of the unique needs and strengths of neurodiverse individuals, as well as the provision of necessary accommodations, such as flexible work arrangements or assistive technologies. In the words of John Elder Robison, neurodiversity advocate and author, "Neurodiversity is not a disease or a disorder, it is a naturally occurring variation in the human genome. It represents a range of brain function and behaviors that are just as valuable as any other human trait." Embracing neurodiversity in the workplace can have a multitude of benefits for companies, including increased productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction. As more companies recognize the value of neurodiverse talent, we can look forward to a more inclusive and innovative future for corporate America. References:
Unlocking the Power of Neurodiversity: 5 Proven Strategies for Creating an Inclusive Workplace Culture That Drives Innovation and SuccessIn recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize the unique talents and abilities of individuals with neurodiverse traits, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others. However, while many companies have made progress in recognizing the value of neurodiversity, there is still much work to be done to create a truly inclusive workplace culture that enables neurodiverse talent to thrive. Here are five ways that a corporate business can create a safe place where neurodiverse talent can excel, elevate through the ranks, and take full advantage of their unique talents to differentiate and become a leader in their industry:
In conclusion, creating a safe place where neurodiverse talent can excel, elevate through the ranks, and take full advantage of their unique talents is essential for companies that want to differentiate themselves and become a leader in their industry. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, providing specialized training and support, creating a mentorship program, encouraging neurodiverse employees to share their talents, and celebrating neurodiversity, companies can create a truly inclusive workplace culture that benefits everyone involved.  Are you struggling to find happiness in your life? Do you feel like you don’t deserve to be happy? It’s time to challenge these thoughts and start believing in yourself. You are worthy of happiness, and it’s time to start finding it within yourself.
As a motivational speaker Louise Hay, once said, "You have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you." Your worth and happiness come from within, not from external sources. "Happiness is an inside job," says best-selling author and speaker, Jim Rohn. It's not about how much money you have, how many possessions you own, or what others think of you. Your happiness is determined by your own thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs. It's important to take the time to get to know yourself and understand your values, beliefs, and needs. Journaling, meditation, and therapy are all great ways to start exploring your inner self and finding the path to happiness. "Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present," says motivational speaker, Jim McCann. Start making changes in your life that align with your values and beliefs. Surround yourself with positive people, engage in activities that bring you joy, and focus on the things that make you happy. One of the most important things to remember is to be kind and gentle with yourself. As Dr. Robert Holden, the author of "Happiness Now!" says, "Happiness is the way, not the destination." The journey to finding happiness within yourself is just as important as the destination itself. Don't let society's standards or past experiences define your worth and happiness. You are worthy of happiness and it’s within reach. Start the journey today and believe in yourself. As the late Nelson Mandela once said, "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." Sources:
Websites: Happiness is a journey, not a destination. It can be found in many places, such as at work, at home, and within ourselves. It is essential to nurture happiness in all aspects of our lives to live a fulfilling and balanced life. Here are some inspiring quotes, websites, and books to help you find your happiness and peace in the storms of life: Quotes: "Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." - Dalai Lama "Happiness is not the absence of problems, it's the ability to deal with them." - Steve Maraboli "The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young." - Henry Ford Websites:
Books:
And finally, the quote "You are the water, not the fish" serves as a reminder that you are in control of your own life and happiness. You are the one who decides how to navigate the storms of life. So, let's find our happiness and peace within ourselves, at work, and at home, and be the water that can overcome any obstacle. Embracing Imperfection: Finding Happiness and Contentment in Your AuthenticityPhoto by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/scrabble-tiles-on-blue-surface-5912585/Happiness and contentment are often associated with perfection and flawlessness, but the truth is, it is in embracing our imperfections that we can find true joy and peace in life. It is through accepting ourselves, and extending that same grace to others, that we can build stronger relationships with those around us and create a more fulfilling life. “The greatest gift you can give to others is your own happiness, not perfection.” -Iyanla Vanzant In her book, "Peace from Broken Pieces: How to Get Through What You're Going Through", Iyanla Vanzant encourages readers to find peace and happiness in the midst of life's storms by embracing their imperfections and finding joy in their authenticity. She writes, "Perfection is an unattainable goal. It is a false measure of success and it is the thief of joy." The same sentiment is echoed by Brené Brown, author of "The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are". In her book, Brown encourages readers to embrace their flaws and imperfections, and to let go of the fear of being judged by others. She writes, "Perfect and polished are just thin veneers that cover up fear, shame, and uncertainty." Finding happiness and contentment in our imperfections means giving ourselves grace, and extending that same grace to those around us. As we move closer together as friends and family, by being authentic and flawed, we can create stronger, more meaningful relationships. "Grace isn't just for the imperfect, it's for the perfectly imperfect." -Mandy Hale In his book, "The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment", spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle shares the idea that true happiness and contentment come from being fully present in the moment, and letting go of our attachment to the past and future. He writes, "Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your life." By embracing our imperfections and finding happiness and contentment in the present moment, we can create a more fulfilling life for ourselves and those around us. So, let's embrace our authenticity, extend grace to ourselves and others, and find peace and happiness in the imperfections of life. hashtag#Happiness hashtag#Contentment hashtag#Imperfection hashtag#Authenticity hashtag#Grace hashtag#Family hashtag#Friends hashtag#drmac hashtag#youupgraded For more articles like this, please visit www.laynemcdonald.com.  I have three essential keys to being a valuable team player that will not only lead to more incredible innovation and success but also create a positive and supportive environment for everyone.
Firstly, cross-pollination is key. It's not enough to just work alongside your colleagues; you need to share your skills and knowledge with them and be open to learning from them in return. Doing this will create a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within your team, which can lead to more incredible innovation and success. Secondly, being a true team player means being selfless. It means putting the needs of the team above your own personal desires. It's about sharing information, resources, and ideas without expecting anything in return. When you're willing to do this, you'll create a more positive and supportive environment, where everyone feels valued and supported. Lastly, being truly part of the team means being invested in the company's goals and working towards them with enthusiasm and dedication. It means being there for your colleagues, both in good times and bad, and being willing to go the extra mile to help them out. When you embrace this mindset, you'll not only contribute to the success of the company, but you'll also build meaningful relationships with your colleagues and create a positive work culture. In conclusion, being a valuable team player is essential for the success of any company. By embracing cross-pollination, selfless sharing, and being truly part of the team, you'll not only achieve personal success but also contribute to the success of the company and create a positive and supportive work environment for everyone. So let's work together, invest in each other's success, and create a culture of collaboration and innovation that will lead to greater success and fulfillment for all. The Power of Cross-Pollination: Creating a Culture of Collaboration and Continuous Learning in Your TeamAs human beings, we thrive on collaboration and innovation. We have evolved to work together, to share ideas and knowledge, and to learn from one another. This is why cross-pollination is one of the most important things you can do as a teammate. By sharing your skills and knowledge with your colleagues, and being open to learning from them in return, you can create a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within your team, which can lead to greater innovation and success. Cross-pollination is not just about sharing information, it's about creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and knowledge. When you create an environment where people feel safe to share their ideas, you create a culture of collaboration and innovation. This is because people are more likely to come up with innovative ideas when they feel supported and valued. One of the most important aspects of cross-pollination is being open to learning from others. As a team member, you bring your unique set of skills and experiences to the table. However, you can also learn a great deal from your colleagues. By being open to learning from others, you can broaden your own knowledge and skillset, which can help you become a more valuable team member. Cross-pollination also involves sharing your knowledge and skills with others. This means that you need to be willing to teach others what you know. When you teach others, you not only help them grow, but you also solidify your own knowledge and skills. Additionally, teaching others can help you identify areas where you need to improve, which can help you grow as a professional. Another important aspect of cross-pollination is recognizing the value of different perspectives. Every team member brings their own unique perspective to the table. By recognizing and valuing these perspectives, you can create a more diverse and innovative team. When you have a diverse team, you are more likely to come up with unique and creative solutions to problems. Creating a culture of cross-pollination also involves creating opportunities for team members to collaborate. This can involve organizing brainstorming sessions, team-building activities, or project collaborations. When you create opportunities for team members to collaborate, you create an environment where people can share their ideas and knowledge freely. In conclusion, cross-pollination is essential for creating a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within your team. By sharing your skills and knowledge with your colleagues, and being open to learning from them in return, you can create an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their ideas and knowledge. This can lead to greater innovation and success for your team and your company. Additionally, cross-pollination involves recognizing the value of different perspectives, teaching others what you know, and creating opportunities for team members to collaborate. So, let's embrace cross-pollination and create a culture of collaboration, innovation, and success. The Power of Selfless Sharing: Creating a Culture of Collaboration, Growth, and Support in Your TeamAs a motivational speaker, I believe that being a true team player means being selfless. It's about putting the needs of the team above your own personal desires, and sharing information, resources, and ideas without expecting anything in return. When you're willing to do this, you'll create a more positive and supportive environment, where everyone feels valued and supported. Selfless sharing is the backbone of teamwork. It's what creates a culture of collaboration and innovation, and it's what allows teams to achieve their goals. When you're focused on the needs of the team, you're able to put your own ego aside and work towards a common goal. This creates a sense of unity and camaraderie within the team, which can be incredibly motivating and inspiring. However, being selfless is not always easy. It requires a certain level of humility and vulnerability to be able to share your knowledge and resources without expecting anything in return. It also requires a level of trust in your team members, and a belief that everyone is working towards the same goal. But when you're able to put these things aside and focus on the needs of the team, the rewards can be tremendous. When you're willing to share your knowledge and resources, you create a culture of learning and growth. You're able to help your team members develop their skills and knowledge, and you're able to learn from them in return. This creates a positive cycle of growth and development, where everyone is able to contribute to the success of the team. Selfless sharing also creates a sense of support and camaraderie within the team. When you're willing to help others without expecting anything in return, you create a sense of community and support. This can be incredibly motivating and inspiring, and can help everyone feel valued and supported. In addition, selfless sharing can also create a sense of purpose and fulfillment within your own life. When you're able to help others and contribute to the success of the team, you're able to find meaning and purpose in your work. This can be incredibly fulfilling, and can help you feel more motivated and engaged in your work. In conclusion, being a true team player means being selfless. It means putting the needs of the team above your own personal desires, and sharing information, resources, and ideas without expecting anything in return. When you're willing to do this, you create a more positive and supportive environment, where everyone feels valued and supported. Selfless sharing creates a culture of collaboration, learning, growth, support, and fulfillment, which can lead to greater success and satisfaction in both your personal and professional life. So let's embrace selfless sharing and create a culture of teamwork that is focused on the success of the team as a whole. The Power of Being Truly Part of the Team: Embracing Unity, Support, and Sacrifice for Greater SuccessI am passionate about the power of teamwork. To be a successful teammate, you need to be truly part of the team. This means being invested in the company's goals and working towards them with enthusiasm and dedication. It means being there for your colleagues, both in good times and bad, and being willing to go the extra mile to help them out. Being part of the team means being invested in the success of the company. This means understanding the company's goals and values, and working towards them with enthusiasm and dedication. When you're invested in the company's success, you're able to put your own needs aside and focus on the needs of the team. This creates a sense of unity and purpose within the team, which can be incredibly motivating and inspiring. Being part of the team also means being there for your colleagues. This means being willing to support them, both in good times and bad. It means being a shoulder to lean on when they're going through a tough time, and celebrating their successes when things are going well. When you're there for your colleagues, you create a sense of camaraderie and support within the team. But being part of the team also means going the extra mile. It means being willing to put in the extra effort to help your team members when they need it most. It means being willing to take on additional responsibilities, or to lend a hand when someone is struggling. When you're willing to go the extra mile, you create a sense of trust and dependability within the team, which can be incredibly valuable. Being truly part of the team requires a certain level of selflessness and humility. It means putting the needs of the team above your own personal desires, and being willing to sacrifice your own comfort for the good of the team. But when you're able to do this, you create a culture of teamwork that is focused on the success of the team as a whole. In conclusion, being truly part of the team is essential for success in any company. It means being invested in the company's goals and values, being there for your colleagues, and being willing to go the extra mile to help them out. When you embrace this mindset, you create a culture of teamwork that is focused on the success of the team as a whole. So let's embrace being truly part of the team and create a culture of success and fulfillment for everyone. Final Thoughts These three essential keys to being a valuable team player – cross-pollination, selfless sharing, and being truly part of the team – are crucial for creating a culture of collaboration, growth, and success within your team. By embracing these values, you can create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, and where innovation and growth are encouraged. To take action on these principles, start by making a conscious effort to share your skills and knowledge with your colleagues. Be open to learning from others and create opportunities for collaboration. Practice selflessness by putting the needs of the team above your own personal desires, and be willing to share information and resources without expecting anything in return. Finally, invest yourself fully in the company's goals and be there for your colleagues, both in good times and bad. Remember, creating a culture of teamwork and collaboration takes time and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. By embracing these essential keys, you can create a positive and supportive work environment that leads to greater success and fulfillment for everyone. So, where do we go from here? Let's continue to prioritize these essential keys to being a valuable team player, and work together to create a culture of collaboration and success that benefits everyone. With dedication, enthusiasm, and a commitment to teamwork, we can achieve great things together.  "Change is the only constant in life" - Heraclitus.
Change is an inevitable part of life. Whether it's a small shift or a major transition, change can be difficult to navigate. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can power through change and come out stronger on the other side. Here are some tips and strategies for embracing change:
"Be resilient" - Martin Seligman. change is a natural part of life, and it is important to learn how to power through it. By embracing change with an open mind, continuously learning and growing, having a support system, and staying positive, you can increase your chances of success when dealing with change. Remember, change can bring opportunities for growth and development, so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. With the right mindset and actionable steps, you can power through change and come out even stronger on the other side. CONCLUSION By following these tips and strategies, you can power through change and come out stronger on the other side. Remember to embrace change with an open mind and a positive attitude, continuously learn and WEBSITES FOR MORE RESOURCES
Note: These websites are the official websites of these individuals and may contain additional resources and information on the topics discussed above.  Thought leadership can play a critical role in shaping the direction of a company by providing strategic direction, driving innovation, building a strong reputation, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and attracting top talent.
Becoming a thought leader involves a combination of building expertise, sharing valuable insights, and actively engaging with others in your industry. Here are a few key steps that can help you to become a leader in thought leadership:
Download the app at www.laynemcdonald.com for more powerful articles.  "Creativity is seeing what others see and thinking what no one else ever thought." - Albert Einstein.
Will you dare, dream big, and take advantage of this untapped group of talents in commoditized institutions? In the next ten years, whoever takes full advantage of this group at high-level leadership positions, will quickly become the fastest-growing commoditized institution in the country. They might not be the biggest, but they will grow with veracity in areas yet to be used. This company will strike fear in others for a straightforward reason: creativity will reach out to customers and deliver robust, innovative solutions they have been waiting for because they dare to solve the issues thoroughly, with imagination. These solutions will have no immediate competition and a brand-new key that not only injects significant growth in new markets but will thrive closer to the competition that believes it is untouchable. Who will dare to do this? No one is untouchable with creative blue oceans and strong wind in their sails. Only time will tell what Creatives will do to set new blue oceans in a commodities service that desperately needs to reinvent itself and listen to the client's hearts. This is a reality for any business in the 21st century. Inclusion of the creatives in a commoditized anything will create something new, something great that will grow because it is simply a blue ocean. Download the app at www.laynemcdonald.com for more powerful articles. Compassionate Leadership: The Importance of Compassion in Improving Your Life and Relationships3/1/2025  We live in such a busy world. With everyone in the family either going to school or working, “busy” is the new normal. You hear about either being more, doing more, or buying more. Self-care falls by the wayside; spending time with others is minimal at best, and worst of all, compassion becomes a luxury, not a necessity.
The Benefits of Compassion Compassion boosts your health and well-being. There are many benefits to taking on being compassionate both for yourself and, equally as necessary, for others: For Yourself · You feel good about yourself. · You exude more confidence. · You have a softer, gentler, kinder demeanor. · You attract more positive people, situations, and experiences. · Your health improvement brings more energy, better sleep, and life experiences. For Others · You are a contribution to others when you show compassion. · You let them know they are not alone. · Other people reap the rewards of feeling related, understood, and full of hope. · Others who are equally kind and compassionate will draw near to you. · You become a role model for others on how to treat themselves. · You become a role model for others to improve their relationships. · You create a ripple of compassion that positively affects many people. How Being More Compassionate Changes Your Life You are Compassionate to yourself as a new way of improving many areas of your life. When you are compassionate to yourself, you reap the benefits and the rewards. Self-Compassion allows you to care for your own needs by being kind and gentle to yourself when you fall short. As humans, we all fall short; sometimes, we do not reach our goal, and sometimes the actions of others impact us negatively. We make mistakes, forget things, lose our cool, and overreact. We are human. Understanding that we are human allows us to be kind and compassionate and ask ourselves what we learned from experience. Self-soothing is shown to have many benefits. Being compassionate to ourselves is a better use of energy. Imagine the time and trouble it takes to feed a negative mindset in reaction to a mistake. We can, instead, take time to self-soothe. We can move forward more quickly rather than ruminating on our mistakes. We can learn and grow and keep moving forward – the actual definition of life. More importantly, we train others to do the same when we show compassion. If we beat ourselves up, we permit others to do the same. We also model how we expect others to treat us when we show mercy. The Impact of Compassion on Your Relationships While we are all interested in changing and improving our lives for the better, what about the impact compassion has on our relationships? Navigating through life means taking responsibility for our actions; however, we also navigate many relationships within families, work, and society. Showing compassion allows us to make a difference in someone else’s life. People need to know that we understand and are there for them. Loving and supporting others is the catalyst for helping them through the rough patches of life. What is better than being a contributing factor to changing the direction of someone else’s life? Now that is powerful! When we offer compassion to others, we feel good about ourselves and make a difference to them. It is a win/win situation. Photo by Diva Plavalaguna: https://www.pexels.com/photo/men-in-agreement-during-a-meeting-6147028/Three Powerful Practices of Highly Compassionate PeopleWhat does success have to do with being a compassionate person? The answer is a lot. When you think of someone sympathetic, do you associate it with someone with a martyr/victim personality? Most folks associate compassionate people with soft or weak. However, compassionate people have fantastic superpowers – they know how to use compassion as a strength, not a weakness. Here are a few habits of highly compassionate people. They do not Take Things Personally. People who emulate compassion for themselves and others have learned the art of not taking things personally. They know that when a mistake happens, that is simply a fact – an error occurred. They do not focus on how much of a failure they are or how stupid they feel. They merely focus on the problem and do not internalize it as being about themselves. This allows them to take the next step. The Move Forward Quickly and Rebound Since compassionate people practice self-compassion as well as compassion for others, they can move forward quickly. They do not make problems, mistakes, or situations about them. There is less ruminating, worrying, and talking about problems. There is more of a focus on moving forward and creating creative solutions. They Come up with Solutions to Problems Empathetic people can feel what it is like for someone else to experience pain, almost as if they were the ones experiencing it. This offers them a fantastic vantage point for problem-solving. Rather than ruminating, compassionate people come up with creative solutions to complex problems. A compassionate person can see and feel others' pain points. This offers them an advantage in helping others solve those problems. This one quality has many benefits: · In relationships, compassionate people can empathize with others and are better able to problem-solve. · In business, compassionate people can feel their client’s pain points, communicate with empathy, and help them find creative solutions. · Socially, compassionate people invite others to be vulnerable due to their trustworthy and empathic qualities. · Compassionate people have a superpower in being able to listen effectively to what people are saying and even what they are holding back on, as well. Compassion is an attractive quality. Compassionate people have an uncanny sense of other people. This enables them to feel, see, and hear what others are experiencing. Compassionate people can draw near those who need their gifts, skills, and talents. This allows them to succeed and excel in personal relationships and business settings. The personality trait of being compassionate is not one of weakness. It is one of my strengths. Maintaining a balance between compassion and having firm boundaries is a winning combination. Where can you find ways to be more compassionate to yourself? Where can you find ways to be more sympathetic to others? Three Myths About Self-Compassion We hear a lot about self-compassion these days, and, for most, the concept is foreign. Just a generation or two ago, the mindset was that life was hard, extremely hard, and that was all there was to it. Men worked day and night; women tended to the family and home. Husbands and wives woke up to the rooster crowing sound and then went to sleep with the sun setting. They did this day in and day out with little or no time for themselves. Myth Number One: Self-compassion is a Fad Today, however, we are more self-aware than ever. Self-help and self-improvement have gone from being a luxury to part of our daily routine. Humanity is more evolved; we are conscious creators of our lives to make a difference in the lives of others, as well. However, one of the biggest myths is viewing self-compassion as a buzzword or a fad. Much work in the field of personal development and psychology is showing the long-term benefits of self-compassion. When we take on the practice of self-compassion, there are many benefits, but here are the most important two: · Being compassionate to ourselves helps us feel better, work better, and play better · Being sympathetic to ourselves in life’s daily moments helps us take the burden off expecting others to do it for us Myth Number Two: Self-compassion is Selfish For many people, doing things just for themselves that make them happy and that do not include others can feel selfish. This is far from the truth; when we do something for ourselves, we bring joy to ourselves. If you take some time to journal throughout the day about how many times you are hard on yourself, you will be surprised. When you take on the practice of self-compassion, there are many benefits: · A more positive, optimistic attitude · Less bitterness, resentment, and angst · You are more pleasant to be around and represent a role model for others · A happier, more empathic mindset means a more comfortable, healthier mind, body, and spirit We take the burden off others to always be the ones who need to soothe us, nurture us, and take care of us. We all need others when life throws us a curve; however, we can practice self-compassion to combat those negative thoughts in our heads daily. We all have an inner critic, and when we use the practice of self-compassion to challenge those thoughts, we are all the better for it. Myth Number Three: Self-Compassion is only for Spiritual Folks Self-compassion has nothing to do with being spiritual, religious, or new age. Self-compassion produces results. Imagine being in a meeting or part of a project and something goes awry (as things often do). Taking the time, energy, and, most importantly, the focus off yourself and onto troubleshooting and problem-solving changes the course of the project. Not only does it change the system, but it also changes the outcome. Asking the inner critic a few questions helps improve your life: Ÿ Is this helpful? Ÿ Is this internal criticism a fact? Am I a mistake, or did I make a mistake? Ÿ Where can I learn and grow from this? Ÿ How can I use this to rebound quickly and make a better decision? As you can see, self-compassion comes from a logical place when we challenge that inner critic. Look and see where you can, in your life, challenge the inner critic, dispel these myths, and make a difference. Compassion vs. Empathy: What is the Difference?Compassion and empathy are often substituted for one another, but they do not have the same meaning. Understanding means having sympathy and concern for someone else’s suffering and wanting to go alongside them on their journey. At the same time, empathy is defined more as understanding and relating to another person's feelings. Let us look at both: Compassion To have compassion for someone means to show sympathy and concern for someone or something (i.e., a pet or an endangered species). Charity is driven by wanting to change that person’s life, standing alongside them as they suffer and suffer, and holding space for them as they go through a difficult time. Compassion means being supportive in words, thoughts, and actions. Words of comfort – compassion is shown in language by offering convenience. Have you ever attended a funeral and offered condolences and positive words of encouragement? That is compassion. Compassion in thought – mercy is also shown by offering up effective listening. Letting someone know they are in your thoughts and prayers offers support and encouragement during their difficult period. Letting someone know you are thinking of them, praying for them, and holding space to listen and be there for them is an act of compassion. Compassion in action – Acting steps by physically taking care of things while someone is having trouble shows mercy. For example, picking up your friend’s child from school while visiting her husband at the hospital is compassion. Caring for the home, cooking a meal, making phone calls, and helping organize paperwork are all examples of kindness. Empathy Empathy for someone means you understand what they are going through – either through a relatable experience you have previously undergone or through an ability to feel what they are going through because of your empathic superpowers. Sharing thoughts and emotions with someone else is an example of empathy. Understanding how someone else is feeling is another. The heart uses emotional intelligence to understand, feel, or relate to someone else’s feelings. How to be More Compassionate One of the best ways to become more compassionate is to start with yourself: · Think kinder, gentler thoughts when the inner critic tries to take over. · Take more compassionate actions toward yourself. · Tell yourself you are worthy of self-compassion and leave the guilt at the door. Once compassion for yourself is a new habit, release that to others. Once your compassion cup is complete, you can then and only then share compassion with others. How to be More Empathetic If you find you are not the most empathetic person in the world and want to take on this characteristic, here are a few ways to become more compassionate:
These are the differences between compassion and empathy and how to implement more of each throughout the day. Can You Train Yourself to be More Compassionate?Have you ever met someone with so much compassion and wondered how you could be more like that? If so, you are not alone. Some people are born with the ability to be compassionate to humans, pets, wildlife, and even nature. While compassion is a trait that is both biological and learned from our environment in childhood, there are ways to train yourself to be more compassionate if you wish. Compassion is a Practice If being compassionate is a way of being which is unfamiliar to you, it will take some practice. Like any other new habit you wish to form, it will begin as foreign until you make it more familiar. The brain is a creature of habit and gravitates to what is expected – whether that is a positive trait or a negative pattern. Training your brain to be more compassionate is a practice like any new habit you wish to create. Compassion begins with self-compassion. Set an intention to be more self-compassionate, and you will be amazed at how much your everyday, ordinary life improves. Taking on self-compassion lightens the load, makes each day a little brighter, and softens life's difficulties. Here are some ways to practice self-compassion: · Talk back to that negative voice in your head; when you have a thought, which is negative about yourself, challenge it. · Counteract every negative thought with a positive one. For example, if you find yourself being hard on yourself, remind yourself how you have been through difficulties before and have come out simply fine. · Compliment yourself on a well-done job and let go of guilt for feeling proud and accomplished. · Give yourself a break now and again; you do not always have to aim for perfection. Doing your best is what counts. · Treat yourself to something nice; do something nice for yourself. · Speak to yourself and treat yourself like you would your best friend Take the time to practice self-compassion. Once your cup is overflowing, you have so much more to give. Self-compassion is not selfish; it is necessary so you can give back to others. Compassion to Others · Take time to notice and journal throughout the day each time someone is compassionate to you. Take notes and learn how to apply those same principles to others. · Join an accountability group to create the new habit of being compassionate to yourself and others · Take time throughout your busy day and pause – ask yourself, where and how can I show compassion in this situation? · Instead of reacting to someone else’s negative mood, take a moment to ask them if they are okay. Chances are their negative mindset is a cry for help, for someone to listen or to ask! Compassion as a Habit Knowing where, how, and when you can apply compassion to both self and others is the perfect way to create compassion as a habit. · Practice self-compassion · Ask where, how, and when you can offer compassion to others · Notice compassion Take on these practices; before you know it, compassion will become a natural part of your life. Download the app at www.laynemcdonald.com for more powerful articles. #compassionateleadership #compassion #selfcare #relationships #success  We hear a lot about self-compassion these days, and, for most, the concept is foreign. Just a generation or two ago, the mindset was that life was hard, extremely hard, and that was all there was to it. Men worked day and night; women tended to the family and home. Husbands and wives woke up to the rooster crowing sound and then went to sleep with the sun setting. They did this day in and day out with little or no time for themselves.
Myth Number One: Self-compassion is a Fad Today, however, we are more self-aware than ever. Self-help and self-improvement have gone from being a luxury to part of our daily routine. Humanity is more evolved; we are conscious creators of our lives to make a difference in the lives of others, as well. However, one of the biggest myths is viewing self-compassion as a buzzword or a fad. Much work in the field of personal development and psychology is showing the long-term benefits of self-compassion. When we take on the practice of self-compassion, there are many benefits, but here are the most important two: · Being compassionate to ourselves helps us feel better, work better, and play better · Being sympathetic to ourselves in life’s daily moments helps us take the burden off expecting others to do it for us Myth Number Two: Self-compassion is Selfish For many people, doing things just for themselves that make them happy and that do not include others can feel selfish. This is far from the truth; when we do something for ourselves, we bring joy to ourselves. If you stop to take some time to journal throughout the day about how many times you are hard on yourself, you will be surprised. When you take on the practice of self-compassion, there are many benefits: · A more positive, optimistic attitude · Less bitterness, resentment, and angst · You are more pleasant to be around and represent a role model for others · A happier, more empathic mindset means a more comfortable, healthier mind, body, and spirit We take the burden off others to always be the ones who need to soothe us, nurture us, and take care of us. We all need others when life throws us a curve; however, we can practice self-compassion to combat those negative thoughts in our heads daily. We all have an inner critic, and when we use the practice of self-compassion to challenge those thoughts, we are all the better for it. Myth Number Three: Self-Compassion is only for Spiritual Folks Self-compassion has nothing to do with being spiritual, religious, or new age. Self-compassion produces results. Imagine being in a meeting or part of a project and something goes awry (as things often do). Taking the time, energy, and, most importantly, the focus off yourself and onto troubleshooting and problem-solving changes the course of the project. Not only does it change the system, but it also changes the outcome. Asking the inner critic a few questions helps improve your life: Ÿ Is this helpful? Ÿ Is this inner criticism a fact? Am I a mistake, or did I make a mistake? Ÿ Where can I learn and grow from this? Ÿ How can I use this to rebound quickly and make a better decision? As you can see, self-compassion comes from a logical place when we challenge that inner critic. Look and see where you can, in your life, challenge the inner critic, dispel these myths, and make a difference. Dr. Layne McDonald  Another potent tip is to speak to and from emotion.
What do we mean by this? In sales, when trying to sell something, you are told to focus on the “value proposition.” That means thinking about what it is that people gain from the product. Does your product make them? Happier? Healthier? Richer? This will create an emotional hook, and emotion is what dictates behavior. Well, attention is a type of behavior. And if you want people to listen, you need to address something that seems pertinent to them – you need to appeal to their emotions. Speaking about pride, challenge, and success does not mean discussing numbers or strategy. Find the emotional hook and use this to elaborate and bring your point to life. How does this make you feel? Likewise, it would help if you tried to channel that emotion yourself. Whether you are extremely happy, extremely confident, or something else, let that inform your choice of vocabulary. Gesticulate When you feel strongly about what you are saying, you will naturally gesticulate more and use more significant gestures. This unconscious signal makes us appear more congruent – it means our bodies and faces match our feelings. That, in turn, means that people will be more engaged and trusting in what we say. Look at anyone you typically think of as charismatic, and you will find that they all use these kinds of large gestures as they talk. Know When to be Still Learning to be entirely still when you are not talking and getting your point across. Again, this will help you evoke confidence and calm, creating a powerful aura around you that makes other people want to listen. As you continue reading this book, you will see that many of these strategies are combined with techniques that make a better leader. These body language and language tips are indicative and correlate with the traits you are trying to cultivate. From the book "Thoughts on Leadership - Part 3" by Dr. Layne McDonald |
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AboutFaith in Focus is a leading Christian media ministry dedicated to empowering churches, CEOs, and creatives through faith-driven storytelling and digital ministry strategies. With decades of experience in filmmaking, leadership coaching, and digital outreach, Faith in Focus equips individuals and organizations to maximize their impact by producing powerful, authentic faith-based content. This blog explores Christian filmmaking, faith-centered leadership, storytelling for Christ, and effective social media evangelism. Whether you are a church leader, business executive, or creative professional, you’ll discover inspiration, practical strategies, and tools to elevate your calling and influence. Join the Faith in Focus movement today by signing up for our newsletter and joining our site for FREE. |
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