Make: What was the last thing you made? What materials did you use? Is there something you want to make, but you need to clear some time for it? (Author: Gretchen Rubin)
Full disclosure: my dad made this for me.
It’s just so great I had to share. One rainy morning as I was eating my Cheerios and trying to devise a plan to walk across my puddle of a driveway to make it to my car, I saw my dad head into the garage and then outside with what looked to be bricks. I soon realized that he was creating a path of bricks for me to cross my driveway, dry feet and all. What struck me about this creation was that my dad literally laid a stepping stone for me. He’s always been the first to offer encouragement growing up, but the path he made me is something I’ll always remember.
This year I learned that I can be a mentor. I’ve connected with students studying PR, considering PR or completely unsure. I’ve met individuals through my blogs, tweets and speaking engagements. In these discussions I always explain that I may only be a few steps ahead of them, but I’ve learned so much in that small amount of time and I would love to share my knowledge.
During a difficult day at work I received an email from our agency’s intern. In it she explained how she has looked up to me throughout her time at the agency and considered me a mentor. Reading this was more important than she’ll ever know. I try to make myself available to anyone looking for direction.
Moving forward I will continue to connect with up and come PR pros offering insight into getting ahead. But put simply, I will listen. I will listen to their concerns and their ideas. I will help to put them on the right track and most importantly, I’d like to keep in touch and remain a contact they can always look to throughout their career.
Appreciate: What’s the one thing you have come to appreciate most in the past year? How do you express gratitude for it? (Author: Victoria Klein)
I so appreciate the reactions I’ve received to my blog posts. It’s difficult to put myself out there when discussing topics related to my family and work life, but the feedback I’ve received has been completely worth it. In addition to comments and tweets, I’ve seen this in the form of unexpected emails and messages. To know that people are connecting with my posts is very rewarding and gives me motivation to keep writing and reflecting. So, thanks to you : )
11 Things: What are 11 things your life doesn’t need in 2011? How will you go about eliminating them? How will getting rid of these 11 things change your life? (Author: Sam Davidson)
– Swearing: It is simply unbecoming of a lady.
– The constant plan: My sister always tries to pull me out of my strict plan for everything in life. When are leaving? Who are meeting? What time is this or that? I need structure in my life, not sure if there’s a way to get around that completely. However, in 2011, I’ll be maintaining a structure, but am open to spontaneity.
– Lack of sleep: Working on my day-to-day to incorporate a little more each day.
– Gossip: Nothing good can really come of it.
– Excessive caffeine: I’m realistic in that I know I need some to get through the day, but I can definitely cut back.
– Tears: I tend to let the stress pile up until breaking points. If I can address the situations on a regular basis there’s no reason for the mini meltdowns.
– Excuses: I find excuses for why I couldn’t blog or make it to dance class/workout. Enough of the excuses, it’s just happening in 2011.
– Migraines: I’ve had enough of these hell raisers. In 2011, I will make a conscious effort to watch what I eat and review my routine to see what are the triggers. I’ve got too much to do to let a migraine step in the way.
– Poor financial planning: Now that I’m living on my own, I need to constantly address my financial situation and where my money is going.
– Nervous habits: My nails have seen enough damage from the stressful days.
– Just talking: I can spend months or even years talking about what I want. To see it actually happen, it’s time to start doing.
Going with the Flo 