This quote from Florence Nightingale makes me stop and think if I’m making excuses or taking any. We all face moments and challenges where excuses bounce around our heads. Maybe it's a looming deadline, a complex project, or simply the feeling of being overwhelmed. But Nightingale's words are a powerful reminder: our success hinges on taking ownership and refusing to let excuses hold us back.

Here's how I translate this into action:

•  Challenge My Excuse Narrative: I get real with myself. Am I using excuses as a crutch? I recognize them and reframe the situation. Instead of "I can't do this because...", I ask myself "How can I make this work?"
•  Focus on Solutions, Not Obstacles: I shift my mindset. When faced with a hurdle, I don't dwell on the problem. I channel my energy into brainstorming solutions and taking that crucial first step.
•  Embrace Calculated Risks: Growth often lies outside our comfort zone. Fear of the unknown can be paralyzing, but I don't let it stop me. I evaluate risks thoughtfully, and I'm not afraid to take calculated steps that can propel me forward.

Do I do all these things, all the time? NO! But I certainly strive to and have found when I can consider even just one of these, I get what I need to get done. Leading isn't about being immune to challenges. But by adopting Nightingale's spirit of unwavering action, we can overcome obstacles and inspire others. I’m curious, how do you stay motivated and accountable in the face of challenges?

Well this one feels appropriate given the upcoming changes I will personally see 😅. But it certainly rings true in all that we do. I often use the manta that “nothing is constant but change.” (thanks for this one, Mom) One of the hardest things I deal with as a community leader is people’s reaction to change. And for something that is pretty much constant, it’s amazing how hard change is for us humans. One reason I found is because our brains are wired to assume the worst (check out this short article from Psychology Today). So yeah, makes sense that we have a hard time with change if we think it's going to be for the worse. I have noticed this in myself and I can almost feel my brain muscles flexing when I have to consciously tell myself that change doesn't automatically mean bad. 

Knowing that change is hard and that we humans generally think it's going to be worse, gives me the context in how to show up to a public meeting or in discussions with someone. I am looking at how to make the discussion a little bit less confrontational or easier to parse out what really is being said and what needs to be decided. I am looking for a way to acknowledge and embrace the emotions, but then use logical steps to make a decision. 

Change is going to happen, might as well be ready for it when we can! 

Make it Happen Training with Mel Robbins

You all know I’m a big fan of the Mel Robbins Podcast. It’s a combo of info, inspo, and the kick in the pants you sometimes need to get moving on your next thing! This two part training is informative and really lays out thy why and how of getting a project important to you done in the next six months. I watched while riding my indoor bike this past week and will rewatch to get more out of it!