​A couple of weeks ago, this caught my eye, and I had to capture it on my phone to share with you.

Beyond the stark beauty, this image provides more profound inspiration. The abundant growth of this mushroom holds powerful lessons. ​

ONE. Something beautiful can grow from what is lost.

TWO. ​Just because something isn't thriving doesn't mean that it can give life to something new.
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​​​THREE. Synergism gives life to EXTRAORDINARY things.

We are starting a New Year despite the weird time warp created by the pandemic. We are hopeful for the vaccine's success, progress towards herd immunity, and removal of the restrictions and fears accompanying COVID-19. But, the one thing that will remain consistent in the new year is the volume of change we will navigate. 

If 2020 has left you worn down and depleted, just remember this picture. You can still become the thriving mushroom, and beautiful things can grow from the death of what was once vibrant.
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Wishing all of you Health, Happiness, and Prosperity 

​You know how I love bragging about the success of my clients. Seeing their success keeps me motivated. And, I want to motivate you by sharing.

When I met this team, they were running on fumes. The business demands were unceasing. Travel was challenging. And, the team was feeling the added stress of the pandemic. The owner wanted to bring good news and relief but felt thwarted by circumstances beyond his control at every turn. He'd always worked hard, but this situation was bringing him to his knees. He needed a fast turnaround and was praying that hiring me as his coach was the help he desperately needed. 

​This family business was busier than ever. They were getting new client opportunities they had long desired, but they couldn't enjoy the success. They were exhausted, overwhelmed, and their profitability was taking a hit. So many factors outside of their control left them feeling stuck and struggling to tread water.

​When my girls were little, we would go driving through neighborhoods in December to see all the houses lit with holiday lights. This time of year is still a favorite. I've lived most of my life in this area of the country where winter day scenery is most often gray skies and the gray landscape of bare hardwood trees. This grayness intensifies my dislike of the short and chilly days that define winter. But, just as the gloom arrives, so does a spark of happiness that rapidly spreads—homes adorned with holiday lights and colorful decorations bring smiles to the young and old alike. And magically, the sunset at 5:30 p.m. becomes the stage for this visual wonderland. 

Many traditions have waned as we've moved into the 21st century. I hope that holiday lights never suffer this fate. Hopefully, you experienced beautiful weather this past weekend for your annual holiday decorating. Several homes in my neighborhood decorated in advance of Thanksgiving. With COVID-19 limiting so many of our gathering traditions this year, your outdoor holiday display is a chance to increase happiness and cheer. 

So whether you are a Clark Griswold or a Charlie Brown, it doesn't matter. You light up the world around you and bring joy to the holidays to people you may never know. Thank you and Happy Holidays!