“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” ~ Henry Ford Do you consistently make the choice to empower yourself? There is a saying, count it all joy, which is an interesting thought, especially if you feel like your sitting in a situation that feels like anything BUT joy. Most of…
“Be curious, not judgmental.” ~Walt Whitman Curiosity may have killed the cat, but a lack of curiosity could be killing your ability to lead your people. Why? Because in order to be a great leader you must have a general curiosity about the people you lead. You have to understand what makes them tick,…
“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” ~Abraham Lincoln It is easy to get caught up in the divisiveness that seems to be running rampant throughout our country at this time. The politicians in Washington D.C. can’t seem to get pass the bipartisanism that divides us even when the future of our country seems…
“Resentment (anger) is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.” ~ Saint Augustine For awhile now, I have noticed more and more folks outwardly expressing anger and frustration towards one group or another, or one person or another. I am sure you have seen the same thing, you just have to…
“One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.” ~ Bryant H. McGill The most important skill you can build on in your life is your listening skills. And yet…the single biggest issue negatively impacting most work environments and relationships is poor listening skills. Which begs…
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” ~ President John Quincy Adams Not very long ago, I had the opportunity to kick off a new group for our, Art of Leading, Coaching, & Influencing Others™ Program. It is an advanced learning experience that…
“Knowing when to leave may be the smartest thing anyone can learn.” ~ Burt Bacharach Over the years I have had the opportunity to work with or present in front of 1000’s of leaders. On occasion, I have been asked, What makes a great leader? What are the traits of a great leader? Can…
“Without the why, the how and the what don’t matter!” ~ Dr. Nido Qubein More than 20 years ago, before anyone started talking about the importance of having a “Why,” an incredibly wise mentor of mine, Dr Nido Qubein of High Point University, told me, “Joe if you don’t have a why, the how…
Your goals should inspire you to be the best version of yourself, they change over time, so be sure they are constantly aligned with what you value and where you are in your life’s journey!” ~ Joe Contrera It’s a New Year and everyone is thinking about their New Year’s Resolutions & Goals. Health…
“At the moment of commitment the entire universe conspires to assist you.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe As 2024 comes to an end, I am reminded of a year that seems to have barely started, passed so soon, and is drawing to an end. It is at these times before year end when I…