Terence H Clarke

coaching

Harnessing AI, Mindfulness, and Adaptation for Personal Growth

Welcome to this edition of Building a Better You! Nowadays staying ahead requires a blend of adaptability, mindfulness, and lifelong learning. This week, we’ll explore three transformative topics: Additionally, I’ll share insights from my recent resilience workshops. Let’s dive in! 1. The Power of AI in Personal Development Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing how we approach personal growth, offering hyper-personalized support that was once unimaginable. Tools like AI-powered coaching apps, habit trackers, and journaling assistants provide actionable insights to help individuals set and achieve goals more effectively. For example, platforms like Rocky.ai deliver tailored coaching to enhance productivity, while AI-powered chatbots offer mental health support, making personal development more accessible. Practical Tip:Incorporate an AI tool into your routine to accelerate your growth. Try using a habit tracker that provides adaptive reminders or an app that personalizes your journaling prompts. Start small and assess what works for you. 2. Mindfulness and Mental Health in the Digital Age In the constant hustle of modern life, mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a survival skill. The digital age offers unique challenges, from screen fatigue to information overload, but technology also provides solutions. Apps like Calm, Headspace, and Reflectly make it easier than ever to cultivate mindfulness, while AI-driven platforms provide personalized mental health support. Practical Tip:Dedicate just 5–10 minutes daily to mindfulness exercises. A simple breathing technique or guided meditation can work wonders for your stress levels and focus. Remember: Consistency matters more than duration. 3. The Future of Work: Adapting to AI and Automation AI is reshaping industries, creating new opportunities while rendering some skills obsolete. Success in this new era requires a dual focus: mastering technology and sharpening human-centric skills like empathy, creativity, and adaptability. As I shared with a client recently, thriving in an AI-influenced workplace isn’t just about technical proficiency. It’s about blending emotional intelligence, communication, and leadership to complement AI’s strengths. Practical Tip:Future-proof your career by identifying skills AI can’t replicate easily—like strategic thinking or interpersonal communication—and invest in continuous learning. Online courses, workshops, and mentorships are excellent starting points. Insights from My Resilience Workshops Last month, I completed an intensive week of resilience workshops, coaching over 120 participants across eight sessions while juggling travel delays, time zone shifts, and client commitments. The key takeaway? Resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. I teach participants how to find strength in simplicity, develop a resilient mindset, and lead with grace under pressure. These sessions emphasize practical tools, from reframing challenges to managing energy effectively. Resilience in Action:One participant shared how learning to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth completely changed her approach to work and relationships. Her story is a reminder that resilience is a skill we can all cultivate. Spotlight Story: Navigating Career Transitions in the Age of AI One of my recent coaching clients, Sarah, was preparing to relocate to a new city and take on a demanding role in a company that had embraced AI-driven processes. The move wasn’t just about adjusting to a new workplace; it required a complete recalibration of their professional approach and mindset. When we started working together, Sarah felt overwhelmed. The prospect of navigating unfamiliar AI tools and adapting to a team that was already well-versed in advanced automation technologies seemed daunting. On top of this, the transition to a new city added layers of uncertainty, both personally and professionally. Step 1: Identifying Opportunities in Uncertainty We began by reframing the challenge. Instead of focusing on the potential hurdles, we explored the opportunities this change presented—new connections, cutting-edge skills, and the chance to redefine their professional identity in an innovative environment. By shifting the narrative from fear to growth, Venn started to see the transition as a unique opportunity to excel. Step 2: Technical Upskilling with a Plan Together, we identified key areas for technical growth. Sarah didn’t need to become a data scientist overnight, but they did need to understand how AI tools could enhance decision-making and streamline operations in their role. We curated a list of bite-sized online courses and resources tailored to their schedule, focusing on building confidence and competence without overwhelm. Step 3: Strengthening Leadership and Communication While technical skills were essential, we recognized that leadership and communication would be Sarah’s most powerful assets in the AI-driven workplace. We worked on strategies to: Step 4: Developing a Relocation Resilience Toolkit Moving to a new city can be isolating, so we designed a “resilience toolkit” to help Venn manage stress and stay connected. This included mindfulness practices to maintain focus, strategies for building a support network in the new city, and a plan to balance personal well-being with professional demands. The Result: Confidence and Clarity After six weeks of focused coaching, Sarah not only felt ready to tackle the challenges ahead but also excited about the opportunities this transition would bring. By combining technical upskilling, emotional intelligence, and a resilient mindset, they created a clear, actionable plan to thrive in their new role. Takeaway for You:Career transitions—especially those influenced by AI—may feel overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategies, they can become a springboard for growth. Whether it’s learning new tools, strengthening your leadership, or managing personal challenges, every step you take builds confidence and resilience for the road ahead. Are you navigating a career transition or facing uncertainty in your role? Let’s work together to create your strategy for success; book an exploratory call here Closing Thoughts:Technology and personal growth are no longer separate paths—they’re intertwined. By integrating AI tools, practicing mindfulness, and preparing for the future of work, you can craft a life that’s not only resilient but also deeply fulfilling. 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

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Reskilling and Upskilling 2025

As a coach and trainer working with multinational companies, I’ve had countless conversations about the importance of reskilling and upskilling in today’s job market. It’s clear that the landscape is changing rapidly, and both employees and organizations need to adapt to keep pace. Here’s what I’m hearing from my clients and how we can approach this crucial aspect of career development. Why Reskilling Matters From my discussions with corporate teams, it’s evident that many employees feel a sense of urgency to learn new skills. The truth is, technology is evolving faster than ever, and what was relevant a few years ago might not cut it today. Many professionals are realizing that if they want to stay competitive—and even just keep their jobs—they need to be proactive about learning. What I’m Hearing from Clients How We Can Approach Reskilling As a coach, I focus on creating tailored learning experiences that resonate with individuals’ needs and goals. Here are a few strategies I recommend based on my experiences: In my role as a coach, I see firsthand how reskilling and upskilling are vital for both individuals and organizations navigating the evolving job market. It’s about more than just keeping up; it’s about empowering people to take control of their careers and embrace new challenges with confidence. As we continue into 2025, let’s focus on creating supportive environments where continuous learning is encouraged and celebrated. After all, the more we invest in our growth, the better equipped we’ll be to tackle whatever comes our way! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Does It Feel Like Life’s on Fast-Forward? Let’s Fix That.

Do you ever feel like the year disappears before you’ve had a chance to catch your breath? I hear this a lot from people I coach. The Guardian recently published an article by Miriam Frankel that dives into why time seems to speed up and how we can change that. It got me thinking about the connection between our perception of time and the routines or pressures we face daily. I want to share some practical ideas inspired by the article—and my own experience as a coach—on how to feel more present and in control of your time. If this resonates, I’d love for you to join my personal development community, where we talk about these kinds of challenges and find ways to move forward together. What Stood Out to Me: The article explains that our perception of time is shaped by our routines and the memories we create. New or meaningful experiences feel longer when we look back on them, while repetitive routines make time blur together. Miriam Frankel highlights studies showing that the less variety in our daily lives, the faster the years seem to fly by. This is something I see in my work all the time. People often feel stuck, not because they’re doing nothing, but because they’re doing the same thing over and over. Adding novelty or reflection to your day can completely change how you experience time—and your sense of accomplishment. 8 Ways to Take Back Control of Your Time: 1️⃣ Shake Things Up When every day feels the same, time blends together. Do something small but different—take a new route to work, cook a recipe you’ve never tried, or say yes to an invitation you’d normally turn down. 2️⃣ Explore New Places You don’t need a big trip to create memorable moments. Visit a neighborhood you’ve never been to, walk a different path in the park, or even rearrange your workspace. Change helps your brain pay attention. 3️⃣ Pay Attention It’s easy to rush through the day without noticing what’s happening around you. Take a moment to really look at the sky, listen to the sounds in your home, or enjoy the feeling of warm coffee in your hands. 4️⃣ Celebrate What You’ve Done Instead of making endless to-do lists, start keeping “done” lists. At the end of the day, write down three things you’re proud of finishing—even if it’s just sending an email you’ve been avoiding. 5️⃣ Spend Time Outside There’s something about being in nature that helps you feel grounded. Go for a walk, sit by a tree, or watch birds. Even a few minutes can make a difference. 6️⃣ Do Things That Matter to You Focus on activities that feel meaningful, whether that’s learning something new, spending time with people you care about, or getting lost in a good book. 7️⃣ Reflect on Your Day Keeping a journal, even for five minutes, helps you remember what stood out. Write about one thing that made you smile or something new you noticed. 8️⃣ Put the Phone Down Scrolling social media often leaves us feeling like time disappeared with nothing to show for it. Try swapping 10 minutes of scrolling for something active—like doodling, stretching, or just staring out the window and letting your mind wander. Why This Matters: The more intentional you are with how you spend your time, the longer and more satisfying your days will feel. Life doesn’t have to rush by. If you’re looking for more ideas and support, follow me and join my online community. We’ll figure it out together. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Ready to Level Up in 2025? Let’s Start Today

Elevate Your Career: Behavioural Changes to Reach the Next Level in 2025 As we approach the end of the year, many professionals find themselves reflecting on their progress and planning for the future. Whether you’re striving to climb the career ladder, expand your network, or strengthen your personal brand, achieving the next level of success requires more than just setting goals. It demands behavioral changes that align with your aspirations. In this article, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help you elevate your career, enhance your networking, and solidify your personal branding. We’ll also discuss how to set impactful goals for 2025 and introduce a practical worksheet to guide you on your journey. Behavioural Shifts to Elevate Your Career 1. Embrace Proactive Ownership The most successful professionals don’t wait for opportunities—they create them. Taking proactive ownership means: This behavior positions you as a problem-solver and a leader, traits that are invaluable for career advancement. 2. Practice Consistent Networking Networking isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process of building and nurturing relationships. To make networking a habit: Consistency is key to staying top-of-mind for potential opportunities. 3. Cultivate an Authentic Personal Brand Your personal brand is how others perceive you professionally. To ensure it aligns with your goals: By presenting a clear, consistent, and authentic brand, you’ll attract the right opportunities and connections. Setting Goals for 2025 To achieve meaningful progress, your goals must be: Goal-Setting Tip: Dedicate time to identify one major goal in each of these areas for 2025: Career Resource: Career Values Workbook To help you clarify your vision and map out actionable steps, I’ve created a Career Values Workbook. This downloadable resource will guide you through: Download the Worksheet Here for just $18! Why Behavioural Changes Matter Behavioural changes are the foundation of sustained success. While skills and knowledge are crucial, your habits and actions ultimately determine whether you achieve your goals. By adopting proactive, consistent, and authentic behaviors, you’ll position yourself for growth and set the stage for an extraordinary 2025. Take Action Today Start implementing these behavioral shifts and setting your 2025 goals now. Reflect on your current habits and identify one small change you can make today to move closer to your aspirations. Have questions or need personalized guidance? Let’s connect! Share your 2025 goals or insights from the worksheet, and let’s work together to make your next level a reality. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Facilitation is NOT Teaching

Ever been in a workshop or meeting that felt like a total waste of time? People talking over each other.A lack of clear direction.No real outcomes. You’re not alone. The truth is, ineffective collaboration isn’t just frustrating—it’s expensive. It costs us time, productivity, and sometimes even trust within a team. But there’s a solution, and it’s simpler than you think: facilitation skills. When you master facilitation, here’s what changes: – You plan with intention.– You keep everyone engaged and involved.– You unlock leadership opportunities that others overlook.– You communicate with clarity.– You diffuse conflicts before they escalate.– And, most importantly—you drive results. Facilitation isn’t just for managers or trainers. It’s a superpower for anyone who works with teams. So, how are you planning to upskill in 2025? If facilitation is on your radar, let’s talk in the comments!

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How To Be Assertive At Work

Being assertive at work is a skill that many people struggle with, yet it is essential for personal and professional growth. This article will explore what assertiveness means, why it is a common issue in the workplace, and the advantages and disadvantages of being assertive. Ultimately, we will discuss why developing this skill is crucial for your career success. Understanding Assertiveness What is Assertiveness?Assertiveness is the ability to express your thoughts, feelings, and needs openly and honestly while respecting others. It involves standing up for yourself without being aggressive or passive. Assertive individuals communicate clearly and confidently, which helps them navigate workplace challenges effectively. The Common Problem of Lack of AssertivenessMany employees find it difficult to be assertive due to various reasons. Fear of conflict, desire to be liked, or lack of confidence can prevent individuals from speaking up. This can lead to misunderstandings, increased stress, and missed opportunities for career advancement. In fact, a significant number of professionals report feeling overlooked or undervalued because they do not express their opinions or needs adequately. Advantages of Being Assertive Disadvantages of Being Assertive Why Assertiveness is Important Despite the potential drawbacks, being assertive is vital for several reasons: Tips for Becoming More Assertive Becoming more assertive at work is a journey that requires time and effort but offers significant rewards in terms of confidence, communication, and career success. If you’re interested in learning more about how to develop this skill further, fill out the contact form for a free chat with me to explore how we can work together as coach and client to enhance your assertiveness skills! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

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Here’s a Harsh Truth About Goal Setting

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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The best leadership lesson you’ll receive today

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!

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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