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Here’s a Harsh Truth About Goal Setting

Leave a Comment / coaching, goals, personal development /

As we approach 2025, the excitement of a new year often brings a flurry of goal-setting enthusiasm. However, it’s crucial to recognize that simply setting goals is only half the battle. To truly pave the way for success, several essential steps must follow beyond outlining your objectives. Let’s delve deeper into these steps and explore how to effectively turn your aspirations into reality. Reflect on Your Wins and Lessons from 2024Before diving into new goals, take a moment to reflect on the past year. What did you achieve in 2024? What lessons did you learn from your experiences—both the successes and the setbacks? This reflection is vital. It not only helps you appreciate your journey but also provides valuable insights that can inform your future decisions. Celebrate Your AchievementsOften, we move from one goal to the next without pausing to celebrate our achievements. Acknowledging what you’ve accomplished can boost your confidence and motivation. Make a list of your wins, no matter how small. Did you complete a project at work? Did you improve your health? Celebrating these moments reinforces the positive behaviors that led to those successes. Learn from SetbacksEqually important is understanding what didn’t go as planned. Reflect on the challenges you faced and the mistakes you made. What could you have done differently? This analysis is not about self-criticism; rather, it’s an opportunity for growth. Each setback carries a lesson that can be invaluable in shaping your approach to future goals. Align Your Goals with Your Values and VisionOnce you’ve reflected on the past, the next step is to ensure your goals align with your core values and long-term vision. This alignment is crucial for maintaining motivation throughout the year. Identify Your Core ValuesTake some time to identify your core values. What principles guide your decisions? Is it family, career advancement, health, or personal development? Write down your top values and analyze how they relate to your potential goals. Goals that resonate with your personal values are more likely to inspire you and sustain your commitment over time. Envision Your FutureIn addition to identifying values, consider your long-term vision. Where do you see yourself in five or ten years? How do your goals for 2025 fit into that vision? Creating a vivid picture of your future can help clarify your goals and ensure they contribute to your overall life direction. Create Actionable Steps, Not Just Big DreamsHaving lofty dreams is inspiring, but without a concrete plan, those dreams can quickly become overwhelming. Breaking down your goals into actionable, manageable steps is essential. Set SMART GoalsOne effective way to create actionable steps is by using the SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of saying, “I want to get fit,” a SMART goal would be, “I will exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week for the next three months.” This specificity helps clarify what you need to do and makes it easier to track your progress. Develop a TimelineEstablishing a timeline for your goals can also enhance accountability. Set deadlines for each step you’ve identified. This creates a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused. Use a calendar or project management tool to visualize your timeline, making it easier to see when tasks are due and how they fit into your overall plan. Stay Consistent and Track Your ProgressConsistency is key when it comes to achieving your goals. It’s not enough to set goals and forget about them; you need to actively work towards them every day. Establish a RoutineCreating a daily or weekly routine can help integrate your goals into your life. Dedicate specific times for working on your goals, whether it’s exercising, studying, or developing a new skill. Routines help create habits, and once a behavior becomes habitual, it requires less effort to maintain. Regular Check-InsSet a schedule for regular check-ins to assess your progress. Consider weekly or monthly reviews to evaluate where you stand. Are you on track? What adjustments do you need to make? Tracking your progress keeps you accountable and allows you to celebrate small victories along the way. Use journals, apps, or spreadsheets to keep a record of your progress and reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. Take Real ActionIt’s time to stop making plans without follow-through. To truly make progress, you need to take real action. Commit to your goals by creating a plan that includes reflection, actionable steps, and regular progress checks. Embrace AccountabilityConsider sharing your goals with someone who can help keep you accountable, whether it’s a friend, family member, or coach. Discussing your goals with others can provide additional motivation and support. You might also find it helpful to join a group or community with similar aspirations, where you can share experiences and encourage each other. Overcome ProcrastinationProcrastination can be a significant barrier to achieving your goals. To combat this, identify the reasons behind your procrastination. Is the task overwhelming? Are you afraid of failure? Once you understand the root cause, you can develop strategies to overcome it. Breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable parts can make them feel less daunting. Get Started NowTo help you get started, consider downloading my 2024 Personal Annual Report—a free resource designed to assist you in setting yourself up for success in the coming year. This report will guide you through the process of reflecting, planning, and committing to your goals. 🚀 Are you ready to take action? Download it now! By taking the time to reflect, align your goals with your values, create actionable steps, and consistently track your progress, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your aspirations for 2025. Remember, success is not just about setting goals; it’s about the journey of growth and commitment that leads to those goals. Embrace the process, and take real action towards your future! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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My honest advice for everyone working in a multicultural environment or different country

Leave a Comment / communication, culture, learning, mindset /

My honest advice for everyone working in a multicultural environment or different country After spending 20 years in China and working across APAC experiencing rich and diverse cultures and nearing 2,500 hours of coaching and delivering training workshops across APAC, I’ve learned this: Cultural intelligence (CQ) is not optional; it’s essential. Learn to read between the lines of cultures, adapt your communication, and build genuine connections across boundaries. → You can’t and shouldn’t have to fully replicate someone else’s cultural experiences—CQ is personal and grows from your own journey.→ You should approach every interaction with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to understand.→ We must foster empathy—it transcends cultural differences and opens doors to collaboration. Be: → Open to learning.→ Adaptable in your communication.→ Curious about other perspectives. Not: → Judgmental.→ Stuck in one mindset.→ Resistant to change. Developing cultural intelligence is a lifelong journey, but the rewards are amazing: stronger relationships, better leadership, and real impact in a globalized world. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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The best leadership lesson you’ll receive today

Leave a Comment / coaching, communication, leadership, workshop /

The best leadership lesson you’ll receive today: (From someone who’s spent years coaching multicultural teams across APAC and beyond, navigating cultural nuances to foster collaboration and success.) → Empower your team by embracing diversity as a strength, not a challenge.→ Communicate with clarity, especially when working across languages and cultural norms.→ Build trust by respecting individual perspectives and aligning them with shared goals. In a world where everyone wants to take, give. Become an alchemist of your leadership. Here’s additional advice you can carry forward: Foster inclusive decision-making. Create an environment where team members feel their voices are valued, regardless of cultural background or hierarchy. This means asking the quiet voices to contribute, listening deeply, and bridging gaps between differing viewpoints. When diversity is empowered, the results transcend borders, creating innovative, resilient, and united teams. Leading multicultural teams isn’t just about managing differences—it’s about unlocking potential. When done right, it transforms workplaces and inspires growth beyond expectations. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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A Personal Milestone Achieved in Penang!

Leave a Comment / coaching, personal development /

Milestone Achieved in Penang! Last night, I became the first in my Certified Chief Master Coach cohort ITD World to present my Capstone 1 project—a self-developed coaching framework called the Triple A Model. The journey through the Certified Chief Master Coach program was transformative, and each of the six modules, 100’s of hours of training and practical coaching, provided invaluable insights that shaped my framework and approach to coaching. Here are key learnings: – Core Coaching Competencies – Honed foundational skills that enable impactful coaching conversations, focusing on listening, powerful questioning, and creating a safe space for clients to explore. – Advanced Coaching Techniques – Mastered techniques that deepen client engagement and bring clarity, helping clients uncover limiting beliefs and build strategies for growth. – Emotional Intelligence in Coaching – Gained insights into managing emotions, both mine and my clients’, to enhance empathy and connection—a crucial element in any meaningful coaching relationship. – Resilience Building – Developed strategies to help clients build resilience in the face of challenges, fostering a mindset shift towards seeing adversity as a growth opportunity. – Strategic Communication – Learned how to communicate with clarity, precision, and influence, helping clients articulate their visions and goals with confidence. – Leadership Excellence – Explored leadership from multiple dimensions, learning to coach leaders in ways that enhance their ability to inspire, motivate, and drive positive change. All of these learnings culminated in the Triple A Model I presented. Built on three pillars—Awareness, Appreciation, and Adaptation—this framework is designed to support resilience, mindset shifts, and personal and professional growth. Its clarity, simplicity, and adaptability make it accessible for both novice and experienced coaches to use effectively across different contexts. A heartfelt thank you to my incredible cohort peers for their support, insights, and encouragement, and to the outstanding coaches and trainers at ITD World. Special thanks to Igor Lasun and Patrick Martens for being sounding boards throughout the process, thanks to Dana Dewita for onsite encouragement and thanks to Dr. Peter CheeDr Kathleen OngMarcia Reynolds, PsyD, MCCMarshall Goldsmith et al for world class workshops. Thanks to Jose M. Romero 🌏for a very powerful question at the end of my presentation. I was extremely nervous, even though I speak regularly and I was reminded last night by my cohort peer Mark Parsells , that the nerves I felt were a reflection of how much I care about this work and the impact it can have. Excited to see how the Triple A Model will empower others on their journeys! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Two days, two cities, two workshops, one torn meniscus, and a scooter

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Beyond the Grind: Leading with Adaptability, Influence, and Compassion Welcome back to Build a Better You! Each week, I share practical insights from my coaching journey to help leaders and professionals grow with resilience, purpose, and genuine connection. This week’s edition brings stories of adaptability, the power of influence, and the surprising kindness we encounter along the way. This Week’s Focus: 1. Navigating Challenges with Compassion Every now and then, we face physical, mental, or logistical challenges that test our resilience. This past week, I encountered one of those moments myself: two days, two cities, and two workshops—all with a torn meniscus. Thanks to a kind loan of a scooter, I managed to navigate a 2,000-person factory without unnecessary strain, a reminder of the immense generosity in the world. Takeaway for Leaders: Sometimes, leadership isn’t about pushing through pain; it’s about recognizing our limits and graciously accepting help. Leading with compassion starts with ourselves and extends to understanding and supporting others’ journeys. Reflect on the kindness around you and find ways to pass it forward in your team or organization. 2. Enhancing Executive Presence It was an honor this week to work with Wellington College’s Senior Leadership Team (SLT) on executive presence and influence as part of their induction program for new leaders. These skills go beyond verbal communication—effective presence involves posture, authenticity, and active listening. A true executive presence is grounded in values and an awareness of how you inspire those around you. Practical Tips for Building Executive Presence: 3. Strategies for Effective Conflict Management Conflict, though uncomfortable, can lead to deeper understanding and innovation when managed well. During my session with the Global Lean and Quality team at WIK, we explored how to address conflict constructively. Embracing conflict as a space for growth enables teams to resolve differences while preserving relationships. Techniques for Productive Conflict Resolution: 4. Cross-Cultural Leadership Insights Next week, I’ll be traveling to Beijing, Tianjin, and Bangkok to train teams in leadership, conflict, and cross-cultural communication. As leaders work globally, adapting to different cultural norms is essential. Every culture has unique expectations and preferences, and success hinges on mutual understanding and respect. Key Tips for Cross-Cultural Leadership: Reflection Corner: Questions for the Week Quotes to Inspire “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” — Simon Sinek “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” — Mark Twain “In every community, there is work to be done. In every nation, there are wounds to heal. In every heart, there is the power to do it.” — Marianne Williamson Thank you for joining this week’s Build a Better You! Here’s to a week filled with adaptability, connection, and compassion. And remember—sometimes a helping hand makes all the difference. Wishing you simplicity and strength, Coach Terry C Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Why is gratitude important (skip to the end to find out if you really must)?

Leave a Comment / gratitude, mindset, personal development, resilience, work /

As I prepare for the last workshop of this week I feel incredibly grateful for the clients that trust me to deliver for them and to coach them. This week I have been to Dalian to talk about DEI and inclusive leadership, coached clients in Dubai, Shanghai, Beijing, Paris, Bangkok, New York and Taipei (online) and had the opportunity to enter a bid for a two year leadership development program for a long term client in Shenzhen. All while working on my capstone project (the development of my own coaching model) for my master coach training to be presented in Malaysia next month (oh how I hate exams haha). I’m so grateful for all these opportunities, and the knowledge that you have to create the opportunities yourself, no one is going to hand things to you and the world owes you nothing. It’s hard work but so rewarding and it’s amazing to be able to do something I love. Did you skip to here immediately? Here are several reasons why gratitude is important: 1. Enhances Mental Health2. Promotes Positive Emotions3. Improves Physical Health4. Strengthens Relationships5. Encourages Resilience6. Increases Self-Esteem7. Fosters a Sense of Purpose. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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What Does It Take to Be an Effective Leader in Today’s Diverse Workplace?

Leave a Comment / DEI, learning, personal development, Retention, training, workshop /

Effective leadership requires more than just technical expertise and management skills. One of the most crucial elements of leadership is fostering a culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This became crystal clear to me during a recent workshop I facilitated in Dalian, China, for prominent German manufacturing giant Liebherr. The workshop, titled “Fostering a DEI Mindset for Inclusive Leadership,” brought together leaders from across various sectors to discuss the qualities needed for leadership in today’s diverse workplace. Workshop Highlights The workshop’s agenda centered around six key areas essential for inclusive leadership: The participants were fully engaged, bringing their unique experiences to the table. This created a highly interactive and insightful learning environment where leaders learned from each other. It was a day filled with valuable discussions, practical exercises, and eye-opening revelations. Learning Outcomes By the end of the workshop, attendees had gained a deeper understanding of what it means to lead inclusively in today’s workplace. Some of the key takeaways included: Why a DEI Mindset Matters A DEI mindset is not just a buzzword in leadership; it is essential for building a workplace where every individual feels they belong. Leaders who prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion can expect to see significant benefits across their teams and organizations. Tips for Developing an Inclusive Leadership Mindset If you’re a leader aiming to cultivate a DEI mindset, here are some practical steps you can take: By applying these strategies, leaders can create a thriving, inclusive environment where every team member feels they belong and can contribute to their full potential. Final Thoughts In today’s diverse and fast-changing workplace, effective leadership goes beyond managing tasks—it’s about creating an inclusive culture where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Leaders who embrace a DEI mindset will not only enhance their team’s performance but also strengthen the overall health and sustainability of their organization. Want to learn more about fostering inclusive leadership? Stay tuned for upcoming workshops, or contact me to explore how you can transform your leadership approach to be more inclusive. Together, we can build a workplace where everyone thrives. By focusing on these actionable steps and fostering a culture of inclusion, leaders can create a workplace that stands out for innovation, collaboration, and employee satisfaction. If you’re interested in more insights on leadership, diversity, and inclusion, subscribe to my newsletter and join the conversation! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Understanding Developmental Relationships: A Simple Guide

Leave a Comment / coaching, personal development /

In life, we all need guidance at different stages, whether it’s for work, personal growth, or decision-making. Have you ever thought about the types of relationships that help us grow? There are four main types of developmental relationships that each play a unique role: Mentoring, Sponsorship, Coaching, and Advising. Let’s explore what each of these relationships means, how they help, and when you can use them. 1. Mentoring: Learning from Experience Mentoring is when someone with more experience helps guide you. Imagine you have a big brother or sister who has gone through what you’re experiencing now. They help you because they’ve been in your shoes before. Mentoring is often a longer relationship, where the mentor helps you think about your future and the steps to get there. It’s like having a wise guide by your side. 2. Sponsorship: Creating Connections Sponsorship is different from mentoring because the sponsor does more than offer advice. They use their social network to open doors for you. A sponsor is like someone who introduces you to important people, vouches for you, or helps you get into new opportunities. Sponsors are people who put their own reputation on the line for you. This can be a great way to advance in your career or achieve personal goals, as they make sure you get noticed. 3. Coaching: Gaining Clarity and Confidence Coaching is all about asking the right questions to help you find your own answers. A coach doesn’t tell you what to do but helps you think through problems and make decisions for yourself. In coaching, the coach leads the process by asking powerful questions, but you, as the coachee, decide the direction and take charge of your goals. This type of relationship helps build self-confidence and clarity. 4. Advising: Getting Expert Help Advising is when someone with more knowledge gives you information to help solve a problem. An advisor is like a teacher or expert in a certain area, giving you direct advice on what to do. Unlike coaching, where you find the answers yourself, an advisor gives you the answers. They tell you what steps to take and provide useful information that you need to move forward. How Do These Relationships Work Together? All four of these relationships—mentoring, sponsorship, coaching, and advising—can be useful at different times. Sometimes, you might need advice from a mentor. Other times, a sponsor could help you get a promotion, or a coach might help you think through your next big decision. Each of these relationships brings something different to the table: Whether you’re trying to make a big life decision, advance in your career, or learn a new skill, these four types of developmental relationships can support your journey. Understanding when and how to use them will help you get the most out of each relationship. The key is knowing that everyone needs support, and with the right kind of help, you can achieve great things! By learning how to use mentoring, sponsorship, coaching, and advising, you’ll have the tools to grow in every area of your life. Which one do you need right now? Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Ready to Build a Better You in 2025?

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Ready to Build a Better You in 2025? You can get a free copy of my 2024 Personal Annual Report! I’ve made it available to the public for a limited time. My Personal Annual Report 2024 is your tool to take stock of your accomplishments, reflect on setbacks, and create a solid plan for 2025 What You Get (it’s 100% free!): ↳ 8 Simple Questions to help you reflect on the past year ↳ Practical steps to turn setbacks into strengths ↳ Tips for setting realistic, achievable goals for 2025 ↳ This isn’t just another worksheet. It’s a comprehensive self-reflection tool designed to spark personal and professional transformation. ↳ Successful people know that reflection fuels growth. ↳ Gain clarity on what’s holding you back—and learn how to move forward with confidence. ↳ Get the roadmap to make 2025 your breakthrough year. ↳ Whether you want to advance your career, achieve personal goals, or get more out of life, this report will help you unlock your potential. 📥 Get Instant Access Now! Download here Quotes for Reflection: Questions for Reflection: For more insights and resources, visit my blog here Wishing you simplicity and strength, Coach Terry C Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

Leave a Comment / coaching, health, mindfulness, mindset, personal development, psychological safety, resilience /

Do you ever feel like you have to suffer in silence? Growing up in Ireland and the UK, many of us hear about keeping a “stiff upper lip.” This means not talking about our feelings and just pushing through tough times. But let’s be honest: that approach doesn’t really work. 1. Start with a Strong Foundation Your foundation is your belief system. What do you believe about yourself? If you think you can achieve great things, you’re more likely to try. Here are some tips to strengthen your beliefs: 2. Build Your Walls with Knowledge Knowledge is like the walls of your house. It keeps you safe and secure. Here’s how to gather knowledge about mental health: 3. Add a Roof with Resilience Resilience protects your mindset from challenges, just like a roof protects a house from rain. Here’s how to develop resilience: 4. Decorate Your Mindset Just like decorating a house makes it feel like home, adding joy and fun to your life makes your mindset stronger: 5. Maintain Your House Just as houses need maintenance, your mindset needs care too: You’re Not Alone Remember, it’s okay to not be okay. Everyone has ups and downs, and reaching out for help is perfectly fine. You don’t have to go through tough times alone. If you want more tips on building a successful mindset and taking care of your emotional well-being, sign up for my weekly newsletter Building A Better You Join my community and start your journey today!

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