Negotiation – a dirty word?

Negotiation1Just the word – negotiation – can bring up that nervous feeling.  The next couple of blogs will give you some tips that might settle those feelings.

Let’s look at why you might be nervous when it comes to negotiation.

1. Confrontation.  Some people think negotiation is an argument.  It doesn’t have to be confrontational.  In fact, effective negotiation is characterized by the parties working together to find a solution, rather than each party trying to WIN the contest of wills.

Keep in mind an attitude of cooperation, that will set the tone for the interaction.

2. Win at… Continue reading

Control

There are things in life you can control and a whole lot more you can’t.  It’s always a mystery to me how people get so frustrated trying to control things that aren’t in their control and will never be.  Lots of hours and energy could be redirected onto areas that they do have control over.

Here are some tips to think about.

Tip 1:  Is it important to you?  Put the situation into perspective, not everything has equal importance.  Perhaps you want to be part of a project – is it because your colleague is on the project team or… Continue reading

It’s all good!

ItsallgoodThroughout your life you’ll learn new things, acquire new skills and work on all kinds of projects – at home and at work.  You may be asked to get involved in seemingly disparate projects.  When you were in school, you were required to take certain classes that you may have thought were a waste of your time.  I found the following quote that addresses this:

“Don’t throw any of yourself away.  Don’t worry about a grand scheme or unified vision for your work.  Don’t worry about unity—what unifies your work is the fact that you made it.  One day, you’ll… Continue reading

Church Bulletins

Church LadiesA dear friend of mine passed along the following.  I thought you might enjoy these to brighten your day!

They're Back! Those wonderful Church Bulletins!  Thank God for the church ladies with typewriters. These sentences actually appeared in church bulletins or were announced at church services: 

  • The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals. 
  • Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children. 
  • The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.'  The sermon tonight:'Searching for Jesus.' 
  • Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things… Continue reading

Procrastinate – not again?

Procrastinate not again“The work you do while you procrastinate is probably the work you should be doing for the rest of your life.” —Jessica Hische

What do you do to fill in the gaps – to take up time – to distract yourself from the task at hand?  I found the quote above and was intrigued by it.  Identify what you do and brain storm turning it into a business.  Here are some examples that I’ve come up with:

 

Procrastination Action                       Possible Work

Puzzles                                             Detailed problem solver
Email      … Continue reading