Thursday, December 31, 2009
Color Your Style with Vegetables™
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Spread Happiness
Happiness is even being studied as link in economic development. Since the meaning of happiness seems to be a bit subjective, the study of happiness can be ambiguous unless it is clearly defined. In the Wall Street Journal Online, The Numbers Guy discusses research on the self-perceived quality of life or well-being in his article, "On a Scale of One to Four, How Happy Are You?" Is quality of life the same as perceived happiness? Can happiness be quantified, defined, and qualified? Do you even know if you are happy at any given moment? Positive Psychologists have developed assessments for measuring Authentic Happiness and now have a website for measuring and improving "Happiness." But sometimes the question of happiness is more of a comparison: "Am I happy compared to what?" Unless you decide to be happy, or know how to make yourself happy, you may find yourself less than happy at any time or place.
The Christmas season with the lights, gifts, family, and often spiritual context can bring out joy and happiness in many, but it can be a source of unhappiness for others if they expect the season or other people to make them happy. Gratitude, giving, sharing, music, exercise, and relaxation promote happiness. Find ways to spread happiness this holiday season rather than waiting for it to come to you. Enjoy the season!
With Love and Happiness,
Nancy
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Family Gatherings
We are very blessed to have many family gatherings during the holidays. We plan to eat, sing and play games. I had a wonderful pre-Christmas with my daughter, son-in-law, grandsons & new granddaughter in Albuquerque, NM. The boys enjoyed seeing Santa and the "River of Lights." We had a wonderful view of the aquarium from a large glass window during our "Dinner with Santa."
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
Joyful Holidays
Having an "Attitude of Gratitude" takes me a long way during the holidays. I am grateful for my family, doing work that I love to do, and having time to write out my thoughts and ideas. Starting my day with gratitude takes me through all of the unexpected disappointments along the way.
When things don't go as planned a "Sense of Humor" helps me gain perspective. Sometimes there are illnesses and heartbreaks that press on people even during the holidays, but often it's the little things that build up that cause us to lose our cool. The little things that we feel are important over the holidays can sometimes become overwhelming. Family gatherings, food, gifts, and cards are all wonderful as tokens of gratitude. But when having everything "just right" becomes more important than the "good intention," the meaning gets lost. I spent hours yesterday working on pictures to make photo cards. This year was the first year I tried to send them. When I got the finished cards I was disappointed to find that some were quite dark. The cards seemed to turn out darker than the pictures that I had printed. My first thought was that no one would like them, and they would wonder why I would send cards that didn't look picture perfect. Then I looked at my growing family and smiled. We're not perfect and sometimes it shows.
The last thing that I want to do is have a "Plan" for next year. I want to have a picture in my mind of the things that are really important to me. I plan to express my expectations to others, and smile when life takes a turn in the road that I didn't expect.
Have a Joyful Holiday!
Nancy
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller, M.S.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Building Alliances
Networking is the key to finding a job. In the broadest sense it is the key to finding any job, but networking is even more important if you are looking for a job that you feel passionate about as in a career related to the green economy or sustainability. If networking is so important, what is it?
- In the world of computers, networking is sharing data between two devices. http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/basicnetworking/f/whatsnetworking.htm
- In the career world networking includes sharing information. In fact, speed networking could be compared to computer networking. Speed networking can be useful for entrepreneurs who want rapid exposure of their name and product identification. It is one step up from social networking.
We each have different strengths that we bring to our environment. I like to think of my environment as a garden. I have seeds that are my natural strengths that grow naturally in certain environments and seem to wilt in others. Each of us works in our own garden. We may have different strengths and challenges, but we can learn to build character by cultivating seeds that don’t grow naturally in a given environment.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Color Your Style with Vegetables Presentation
I am finding myself more enthusiastic and committed to getting the book completed through sharing the analogy with others. I've always enjoyed working by myself, but I am growing with the garden. During the winter I still sometimes feel like hibernating and working alone, but I have learned to love and appreciate the different styles of people as well as the many colors in the garden.
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
The panel discussion led by Carol McClelland, Jim Cassio and Alice Bush gave us current information about green careers: where the money is, types of jobs, and expected growth areas. The workshops provided additional inspiration and information.
We are looking for a location for the next regional conference. CCDA plans to continue offering conferences that provide professional development and CEU's.
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
Thursday, November 05, 2009
CCDA Regional Conference Nov. 7
At the conference we will also be holding the CCDA Annual Membership meeting. The meeting wlll be following the conference from 3:00 - 4:00. We will be discussing CCDA issues, organization, dues, and counselor licensure. I will be discussing social networking including the Linkedin CCDA Group which is now open to all career professionals. We are thrilled that the conference is full, buy saddened that some of you who wanted to come will miss it. You are welcome to join the Linkedin Group now to stay updated and give your input on CCDA concerns and decisions. It is an exciting time to be a member of CCDA.
We are looking forward to hearing the conference keynote speakers John Krumboltz, Carol McClelland, and Jim Cassio as well as all of the workshop presenters.
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Having fun
And playing ball was more fun than eating at all.
When smiles came quicker than frowns,
And birthday candles fit on one cupcake.
When I spent the day with a 2-year old,
And learned to play just for the fun of it.
I had a great time getting away from it all and visiting my grandkids in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The shadows on the mountains at sunset looked cool and mysterious, in contrast to the bright white houses and glaring daytime sunshine. It's a long drive through the desert from California, but I enjoyed visiting somewhere different. We usual head for the mountains and ocean, so seeing other parts of the country are always enlightening.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Sustainable Careers Conference
With John Krumboltz, Carol McClelland, Jim Cassio, and Alice Bush as featured speakers, we'll have the opportunity to hear the most up-to-date information on Green Careers. There will be four afternoon workshops to choose from and a CCDA membership meeting. Lunch will be provided.
I willl have the opportunity to present a workshop on, "Color Your Style with Vegetables." Creating a sustainable lifestyle through healthy eating and healthy relationships will provide the resilience needed for transitioning to a greener career. Join us for a fun and informative conference. Sign up for the conference and tell a friend.
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to fit your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
Sunday, September 20, 2009
How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free.
http://www.quintcareers.com/career_book_reviews/Retire_Happy.html
You can contact Nancy Miller, LifeWork Coach for information about career and retirement planning.
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
CCDA Social
Being a part of a professional association is a great way to learn about career opportunities, professional development, interests of professionals, and get experience networking. You never know where it will take you. Getting even more involved in a leadership position is an even better opportunity. As the marketing director of CCDA I learn about core issues in the counseling profession, interact with seasoned professionals, and have an opportunity to take on a leadership role. Joining an association is an important part of career development.
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Fantabulous Smoothie
(with tips for designing your own)
Add:
2 Kiwi
2 Fresh Figs
Small wedge Cabbage
Handful of Spinach
About a cup of green/rasberry tea (any tasty liquid)
Blend on high til smooth
Add:
Local honey
1 tsp Watkins Pure Vanilla
6 oz plain yogurt
Blend low
Add (slowly if frozen/ice if fresh):
Berries (blueberry, rasberry, marionberry) til berry colored
Strawberries
Blend high for a few seconds til smooth
Could a power packed breakfast really be that good? Absolutely!
I will proudly face my Wii Active Personal Trainer today, after I walk off the smoothie since I am on my second helping. Staying active and eating well really does improve health, relationships and work. Share a smoothie for added benefit. Socializing around healthy eating creates harmony in the mind, body, and soul.
Keys to a good smoothie:
- Have fun experimenting rather than measuring
- Stock your kitchen with fruits & veggies then fill your blender
- Spinach & citrus compliment each other
- Cabbage is one of the most healthful forgotten vegetables
- Local honey helps allergies
- Yogurt adds creaminess
- Quality Pure Vanilla or Cinnamon brings out the best flavor
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
Monday, August 10, 2009
A new way
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Storytelling Seminar
http://astoriedcareer.com/2009/08/storytellings-golden-age-my-te.html
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. Copyright LWD © 2005 Nancy Miller
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Dream Job
Since then in workshops and classes, I've given the assignment to "Write a job description for your dream job." The job description makes the dream job more real and concrete. In my own job description I was:
- my own boss
- gave presentations
- facilitated workshops
- provided coaching and counseling
- had flexible hours
- traveled occasionally
Career expert and author Kathy Hansen, PhD writes about the "Storytelling Resume" and the idea of writing a "Job Wanted" description. I think the "Job Wanted" description would be the next step after writing your dream job and job description. These three steps would help prepare you for writing a "Storytelling Resume.":
- Describing your "Dream Job"
- Writing your own "Job Description"
- Developing a "Job Wanted" ad
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
You Are Your Business
Have you ever thought about the fact that if you consider yourself an employee in your home, work, or family, you are not taking charge of your wants and needs. As your own boss, you don't always get everything you want, but you will develop skills in compassion, resourcefulness, teamwork, and leadership. You will plan how you want to spend your time and money. In fact, you are in the business of you. It's up to you to make your business a success. You're the boss, enjoy the process.
Freedom Walking
- creative
- fluid
- intuitive
Choosing to walk whenever possible frees the air of pollution while freeing your muscles to grow and develop. Endorphins are generated by increased brain activity that frees the brain to create and adapt. How can you find time to walk you might ask. You can choose to make opportunities when things are not going the way you would like them to. For example, yesterday I missed the bus coming home from the dentist's office. I knew the next one wouldn't be coming for another hour. I assumed it was only about 3 or 4 miles home, and I could walk that in the time it would take to wait. I had already taken my two and a half mile morning walk, so I was in the habit of walking. A few months earlier I would have thought of the walk as a daunting task, and I would have stopped for coffee rather than walk. But knowing the freedom of walking rather than driving or taking the bus, I was off. An hour's walk is actually very pleasant if the weather isn't extreme. I was glad I chose freedom walking.
You can easily find opportunities to walk or ride a bicycle when your car doesn't start, you forget your lunch, you need to run an errand, or you find an event to walk or run for a cause. Children and dogs are great motivators. With increased obesity and diabetes in children and even pets, you can prevent so many health problems by getting out for a walk. Dinner time? Have a salad, smoothie, or veggie burrito instead of a big meal. You will free up plenty of time for walking. My daughter and I walk our dogs and motivate each other to get up early in the morning and take longer walks than we ever would alone. I would never get up that early consistently to walk by myself. You can easily motivate someone else to walk or ride a bike. Find a partner and enjoy freedom walking!
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
"Three Cups of Tea"
I stuck with the story and learned about more than schools or programs. I learned about rugged terrain, unfamiliar cultures, and brave people. I was amazed at the whole process of starting a massive project with no money, experience, or support. Dogged determination, gratitude, and passion for a people drove Greg Mortenson to persevere until a school was built.
I read several reviews of this book on Amazon. Reviewers were quick to call Mortenson a great hero or to call him an overzealous ramroder. While most people felt the book was exceptional, a few thought it was poorly written and glossed over Mortenson's short comings. But one of the things I really like about the book was the fact that the author showed Mortenson as a hero as well as compassionate, independent, and obsessed with his mission. Every hero has a human side, and anyone who accomplishes the magnitude of work that Mortenson did, will have his faults. I thought the book showed both sides of Mortenson very clearly. Through his journey, we also saw how a man who began by single-handedly attempting to build programs in a country he knew little about, learned to work with the people and cultures he lived with. I would highly recommend this book, not for it's literary style, but for the shear breadth of experiences, accomplishments and adventures through worlds we often know little about.
"Here (in Pakistan and Afghanistan), we drink three cups of tea to do business; the first you are a stranger, the second you become a friend, and the third, you join our family, and for our family we are prepared to do anything--even die."
- Haji Ali, Korphe Village Chief, Karakoram Mountains, Pakistan ("Three Cups of Tea")
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Run 4 Independence
There are some families however, who are stuck in a cycle of poverty lacking family support and work experience. Young people and adults with disabilities need opportunities to function as members of a society in a great country. Parents who work at minimum wage jobs and those who come from temporary jobs with no benefits need help to survive and feed their families until they can get back on their feet. The community of Elk Grove as well as runners from other areas made the effort to support basic services for those who need them.
As a career counselor and coach, I always encourage people to use the services they need and then give back to the community when they are able to. Children don't need to be hungry in America. Families need a chance to eat, work, and live. It was wonderful to participate in this 4th of July celebration!
This website is intended for informational purposes only. For professional personal/ career coaching, call or email Nancy for assistance with consulting, resources, and information to meet your personal needs. See links on the side panel for professional organizations.