As we approach Thanksgiving, it’s a perfect time to pause, take a deep breath, and reflect on all that we have to be thankful for. When life feels overwhelming, it can be easy to lose sight of the blessings that surround us each day. But by grounding ourselves in gratitude, we find perspective, strength, and even a renewed sense of joy.

Finding Thankfulness in the Midst of Overwhelm

When life feels full—work demands, family obligations, personal goals—it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of stress. Yet, taking a moment to focus on what we’re grateful for can transform overwhelm into peace. Gratitude isn’t about ignoring challenges; it’s about acknowledging the beauty in the journey and the support we have along the way.

This Thanksgiving, let’s reflect on a few things we might often take for granted but that add deep meaning to our lives:

• The People Around Us: Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, the people in our lives make all the difference. Take a moment to express gratitude for those who support, inspire, and uplift you. Even a quick text or heartfelt note can create a ripple of kindness and remind us how lucky we are to have these connections.
• Opportunities for Growth: The projects, challenges, and even setbacks we face are opportunities to learn and grow. These experiences shape who we are, deepen our resilience, and push us to become the best versions of ourselves. Reflect on how far you've come, and give thanks for the journey, bumps and all.
• Moments of Quiet and Calm: In a busy world, those rare moments of stillness can be precious. Whether it’s a morning coffee, a walk outside, or a few minutes of meditation, these pockets of peace help us reconnect with ourselves. Seek out these moments intentionally, and let them become a time to savor the beauty of the present.
• Our Own Resilience and Strength: We sometimes forget to thank ourselves. Think of all the challenges you’ve navigated, the days you kept going when it was hard, and the times you showed up for yourself and others. Appreciate your own resilience and give yourself the credit you deserve.
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A Simple Gratitude Practice
This season, consider setting aside a few minutes each day to jot down three things you’re grateful for. This small act can make a big impact, helping you shift focus from stress to appreciation, even when life feels full.

The Power of a Personal Challenge
When my mom invited my siblings and me to tackle hiking 44 miles this past October, I’ll admit, my first reaction was filled with excuses. October is such a busy time, and like many of us, I felt the pull of work commitments.

But then something shifted. I was reminded of how easy it is for work to take over, and before you know it, the fun and adventure disappear. It hit me that setting even small personal goals, like a hiking challenge, can be a powerful way to reclaim balance and prioritize joy in our lives.

In leadership, I’ve learned that the energy we pour into our work needs to be balanced by moments that recharge and inspire us. Nature has always been a grounding force for me, helping to reset and reignite creativity.

So, here’s to the reminder to set goals that not only push us professionally but also allow us to reconnect with ourselves and what we love. Let’s all remember to take a break, enjoy the beauty around us, and make space for fun—even in our busiest times. I’m now hooked and will continue to get outside as much as possible moving forward into the winter months.

Embracing Change with Love, Awareness, and Community
In a world that feels ever-shifting, it can be hard not to feel unsettled. But something I’ve come to believe deeply is that even in uncertain times, we have the power to choose how we respond. The only constant is change, so how do we focus on love, community, and self-awareness as the world continues to evolve?

I would love for us to connect on this idea: to resist letting fear or hopelessness sink in. Instead, let’s find small, meaningful ways to build resilience and strengthen our communities. We can hold two timelines at once—taking steps to fortify ourselves and each other now, while also committing to the long work of creating a world that works for all.

Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, connection, and a renewed appreciation for all that we have.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Leading teams can be incredibly rewarding, yet it comes with its unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to managing emotions and fostering a supportive culture. As a leader, I've strived to create an open-door policy and a safe space for my team members, ensuring they feel heard and valued. However, balancing this with self-care and maintaining personal boundaries can be tough. Here’s how I navigate this complex landscape and ensure both my team and I thrive.

Building a Supportive Culture

1. Open-Door Policy: One of the cornerstones of a supportive culture is an open-door policy. This means being available for team members to express their concerns, ideas, and feedback. It fosters transparency and trust, making team members feel valued and respected.
2. Safe Space: Creating a safe space involves more than just being available. It's about ensuring team members feel secure in expressing their thoughts without fear of judgment or repercussions. This encourages open communication and helps in addressing issues before they escalate.
3. Empathy and Understanding: Leading with empathy is crucial. Understanding that everyone has their unique challenges and emotions allows you to respond appropriately and provide the necessary support. It’s about being patient and offering a listening ear.
4. Regular Check-Ins: Regular one-on-one meetings with team members can help in understanding their emotional state and workload. These check-ins can be informal, creating a relaxed atmosphere where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
5. Encouraging Collaboration: Promote a culture of collaboration where team members support each other. This not only fosters teamwork but also creates a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.

While it’s essential to be there for your team, it's equally important to take care of yourself. As a leader, your well-being directly impacts your ability to lead effectively. Here are some strategies I employ to maintain this balance:

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. This helps in preventing burnout and ensures you have time to recharge. Communicate these boundaries to your team to manage expectations.
• Delegate Tasks: Trust your team and delegate tasks appropriately. This not only empowers team members but also reduces your workload, allowing you to focus on strategic aspects of leadership.
• Seek Support: Just as your team looks to you for support, you should also have a support system. Whether it’s a mentor, a coach, or a peer, having someone to discuss challenges and seek advice from can be incredibly beneficial.
• Self-Care Practices: Incorporate self-care practices into your routine. This could be anything from regular exercise, meditation, or simply taking time to pursue hobbies. These activities help in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
• Continuous Learning: Invest in personal and professional development. Reading books like 'Dare to Lead' by Brené Brown has been inspiring and provided valuable insights into balancing leadership and self-care. Continuous learning keeps you motivated and better equipped to handle challenges.

When implementing changes to foster a supportive culture, clear communication is vital. Here’s how I approach this:

• Transparency: Be transparent about the changes you’re making and why they’re important. Explain how these changes will benefit the team and the overall work environment.
• Involvement: Involve your team in the process. Seek their input and feedback, making them feel part of the change rather than just subjects of it. This increases buy-in and ensures the changes are well-received.
• Supportive Language: Use supportive and positive language when communicating changes. Emphasize your commitment to their well-being and how the changes are aimed at creating a better work environment.
• Reinforcement: Regularly reinforce the changes and remind the team of their importance. Acknowledge their efforts in adapting to the new culture and provide ongoing support.

Leading teams and managing emotions is a delicate balance of being available and supportive while also taking care of yourself. By fostering an open, empathetic, and collaborative culture, and maintaining clear boundaries for self-care, you can create a thriving work environment for your team and yourself. Remember, a healthy leader leads a healthy team. Your well-being is just as important as that of your team, and by taking care of yourself, you’re setting a positive example for them to follow.

This is a work in progress, and it’s not always going to be easy. Taking one small step at a time is progress, and every effort counts toward building a supportive and healthy team dynamic.