The New Year has come and gone. We celebrated 2018 and welcomed in 2019. With it, we created goals, plans, and resolutions. Most goals tend to slowly peter out as the weeks pass, so how do we accomplish what we set out to do?

Here are some techniques to help you reach those daunting goals.

#1. First, write down all the goals you want to accomplish. Slowly go through them and find ones that can be combined, put aside, and those that will build on top of each other. You want to start out with three goals that you can accomplish in 90 days. If you start out with too many goals, you'll lose track of what is important, and you'll get lost. With this comes neglecting your goals, feeling guilty, and then losing confidence that you can accomplish them.

Choose one most important goal, the one most vital to achieve, and then find two more that will help you reach that main goal.

#2. Second, write down the specifics of each goal and brainstorm how you will accomplish them. Write words, sentences and motivational quotes that have to do with your goals. Hang them around your home or office to remind you. Let family members, co-workers, and friends know what you are trying to accomplish. The more reminders you have the more likely you are to keep them.

#3. Third, turn these goals and resolutions into a habit. Every night or right when you wake up, write down the steps you will take that day that will lead you to your goal. Make sure to work toward your goal every single day. By doing this daily, it will become a habit.

#4. Fourth, break down your goals into small achievable tasks. Schedule three things you will do each day for your goal, setting aside 10 minutes a day for each of them.

The most important rule is to write down your goals. Write them down before you go to bed or right when you get up. Keep the paper, notebook, or journal with you all the time to keep you on track. When we write our goals down, pen to paper, our mind keeps them at the forefront. Also, allow others to help keep you accountable.

The achievement of our 2019 goals can only be accomplished if we really want to succeed and push ourselves to follow through. Hopefully, these steps will bring a successful and fulfilling year.

Recommended listening for goal-setting:

100 Ways to Motivate Yourself

Execution

Goal Setting

Good Strategy, Bad Strategy

The Magic of Thinking Big

Psychology of Achievement

Succeed

The Willpower Instinct

For more information, or for any questions or concerns you may have, contact us at dassi@3leafgroup.com. It's our pleasure to make your experience as easy as possible!

Emotional connections are stronger when auditorily consumed, versus watching it in a video format, reports a UCL study. Click the link above to learn more about how audiobooks are having a heavy impact on listeners' senses.

https://www.military.com/military-appreciation-month

Men are from Mars, women are from Venus.  We've heard this line before.  Sure, men and women differ in many ways – we express ourselves differently, communicate differently, and react to situations differently.  But if we'd all be a little more honest, patient, and understanding (ahem, ladies) – I think we'd expose some secrets about gender roles we may not have recognized before.

Gentleman – you're about to be exposed.   Here are top 10 secrets guys wished you knew (according to a group of psychologists studying gender roles, of course.)

  1.  Men Say “I Love You” with actions:  For the men of few words – actions speak louder than words.  Instead of actually verbalizing his love, your guy may take out the trash, fix the leaky sink, or set the table – just to show you he cares. 

2.  Contrary to popular belief – men take commitment seriously:  It may take them longer to build trust and feel comfortable, but once they are committed – most men are in it for the long run.  In fact, a recent study showed that 90% of married men claim they would marry the same woman again.

3.  He REALLY is listening:  Women often respond with “yes” or “I see” while listening to someone else talk.  Often times, men prefer to listen quietly – but don't worry, they're still listening - most of time ;)

4. Shared activities form bonds:  Men strengthen their relationship through activities rather than expressing or verbalizing their feelings.  Physical interaction like sports and intimacy make men feel closer to their loved one.

5.  Men need time to themselves:  Call it nurturing his individuality or blowing off steam.  Regardless, guys need time to themselves.  Encourage your man to pursue his hobbies – and give him the space he needs.

6.  Men learn from their fathers:  The good, the bad, and the ugly – guys learn a lot from their dads.  Whether they choose to follow in their footsteps or go the opposite direction – men are influenced by their father's relationships. 

7.  Men let go faster than women:  Women tend to dwell on negative experiences or arguments longer than men do.  If a woman wants to discuss last night's argument, the guy may have already put it behind him. On the positive side – here's to forgiving and forgetting!

8.  Men don't pick up on subtle hints:  When it comes to communicating with men, it's best to be direct.  Chances are they won't pick up on cues like tone of voice or facial expressions.

9.  Men respond positively to appreciation:  Compliment him, validate him, and appreciate him.  Men are more responsive and more willing to help when they feel competent and needed.

10.  Men stray when their needs aren't met:  Although men are committed, they need to be appreciated and assured that their needs are met.  If not – they will seek satisfaction from other sources.  That's why it's important to communicate and make sure that both yours and his needs are met.

 What do the guys think?  True?  Untrue?

 Rebuttals welcome... (be nice)

 Ladies…Opinions?  Speak now before YOUR relationship secrets are revealed:) 

The 3Leaf Group Audiobook Program is now available to ALL Kansas Service Members and Veterans.

Welcome aboard, Kansas!

Check it out right HERE!

Still confused? We love questions. Contact us with all your app queries at dassi@3leafgroup.com.

Females are changing the face of the game across the globe. From the recent #MeToo sexual assault and abuse awareness campaign, to the election of Danica Roem, Virginia's first openly transgender elected official, women are stepping up and making their voices heard about issues that affect us all.

Women all over are finding out it is possible to have it all, whether that's your dreams of balancing a life-changing career and being a mom too, or opening your own business.

Women bring value to both the home and the workplace alike in areas they differ from men. The most important part in going after your ambitions is discovering what sets you apart from the pack. Is it your passion? Is it your never-ending drive? Is it something softer but equally as valuable, such as your compassion? Your ability to peace-make? Your solution skills? Where is it that your skills shine?

3Leaf Group is committed to providing cutting edge titles of diverse topics relevant to the state of the world now, and that includes the topics that women are fighting for: equality and diversity. Scroll through our titles and you will find a wide range of diverse authors, from Colin Powell to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, John Gray to Linda Babcock. 3Leaf does, and always will offers a vast array of views so that you may be as knowledgeable as possible.

Talent is in high demand.  Manpower documented that 52% of American companies are struggling to fill open positions.  Why?  They're looking for individuals with specific credentials and proven performance.  Where do these credentials and performance come from?  You're probably thinking tuition dollars -- but more importantly, your credentials and performance come from…..your talent.  Talent is your natural, innate ability, your personal aptitude –something you just have.   

Ideally, individuals consider their natural ability and interest level when choosing an occupation.  For example, if you enjoy writing (which I obviously do) and believe you are decent at it, pursue a career in which you will maximize your writing abilities.    That's where talent in the workplace comes into play.  Recognize your natural abilities, sharpen your skills (through education and/or experience), and contribute to your organization with the proficiencies only you can provide.   

However, there is a perpetual battle in the workplace (primarily among trainers and managers) known as the TALENT VS. POTENTIAL battle. While talent is the natural ability to do and perform, potential refers to the possibility of doing and performing an even greater job function – but the abilities are not quite there. Potential requires training, coaching, and development. Potential refers to the future. Talent is in the present – it's what you already bring to the table. Potential can be enticing in managers' eyes because they may want to mold the individual and his/her talent into a different, perhaps larger role.  Although potential is exciting and can generate positive performance in the future, a talented individual is one who demonstrates both high performance and high potential.  Bottom line, the talent has to be in place before the potential. 

So – what's your talent?  Why were you hired?  Did your hiring manager recognize a spark within you – a void that couldn't be filled by another? And do you look for that same spark in your subordinates? Whether you developed your abilities through your education or your previous experience, there's no doubt your abilities originated from a natural, innate place.  It's your responsibility to contribute to your company by utilizing your strengths and your talents and the same holds true for those beneath you.  If you do so – you may well be rewarded for your talents, or perhaps recognized for greater potential. 

Just remember, our workforce is seeking talented individuals – ones who come with those initial abilities to get the job done.  Your personal abilities contribute to your company in a way that no other can.  So bring forth your talent – remember why you were hired in the first place – by demonstrating your value and your uniqueness, and ultimately, your continuous potential.

Why audiobooks? Why are so many people keen on the listened word? My personal favorite reason, and I believe the sweetest, is that most people still enjoy being read to. Who doesn't look back fondly on their childhood days, curled up before bedtime, as a parent read you that magical book of fairy tales? Audiobooks bring back that feeling of sweet nostalgia.

The other top two reasons people are gravitating toward audiobooks is the ease that audiobooks present. 1) Multitasking made simple. Americans are busier than ever these days, and hours for sitting and reading a book are rare, if impossible, these days. Audiobooks provide an easy solution, whether you're road-tripping, pounding out the miles on the treadmill, or walking your dog. 2) Portability. That iPhone you're probably reading this blog on right now is the #1 device people use for their listening pleasure. There's no extra baggage, no bulky hardcover to haul around. Audios can easily voyage with you wherever you go, no matter how far off the grid you fall.

We've introduced a few reasons here why folks love listening to audios. What are yours? Include them in the comments below, and they could be picked for an upcoming article.

There were over 50,000 audiobook titles published in 2016 alone. Go out there and enjoy 'em!

Take a look at what some Members are saying about the program:

“The audios have made a difference for me in the way I approach obstacles, changing my attitude, and positive ways of communicating, to name a few. I am so grateful that I have a chance to be a member of the 3Leaf Group. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.” –Shirley H.

“I owe much of my ability to promote to higher ranks and positions to the education I received from the 3Leaf Group.  I would never be able to read the number of books I was able to absorb with my ears on my daily commute.” –SGT1 Arthur K., CA ANG

“Thanks to this program I have learned a lot on guidance on how to balance military and family and succeed. Thank you.” –Emelissa R.

Want to get involved? E-mail us for further information at info@3leafgroup.com. Can't wait to hear from you!

It's February 1.  An entire month has passed since the inception of our ground-breaking plans to better ourselves.  

Anyone making progress? 

I've often heard complaints about the gym being too crowded during the month of January.  Too many people believing they'll stick to an exercise routine that will actually help them shed the 10-15 lbs. they've been meaning to shed for the past 10-15 years.  

If you have met with success or at least maintained consistency on your road to improvement – good for you.  As for the others, well, there's always next year.   

So what makes New Year's resolutions so exciting?  What's all the hype about? Change. Improvement. Advancement.  Everyone is up for a little change.  Especially when the change is for the better.  The idea of starting with a fresh slate is always enticing and encouraging.  

So, if you're having a difficult time sticking with your goals don't get discouraged.  Break down your goals into smaller, attainable steps - or set up landmarks along the way.  Reward yourself for reaching the small accomplishments (and no, in this case, a pie of pizza doesn't count as a reward).  Don't get discouraged. Working out 3 days a week instead of every day for the rest of the year is probably a more attainable aspiration.  

Change is exciting – but you have to work hard for it – consistently.  If your resolution was to pound the gym – I hope your sneakers haven't already accumulated dust.  Bottom line, don't get burned out.  After all, it is only February 1. 

Is being able to juggle your home and work life really a myth? Between kids, work, relationships, and household responsibilities, it's no wonder that Americans feel they have no time to themselves. So whether you're commuting, exercising, or cooking, listen to an audiobook below - multitasking at its finest! - and learn the art of restoring balance in both your work and personal life.

http://www.3leafgroup.com/14m11/work-life-balance.html

What's the benefit of audiobooks?

          There are numerous benefits to listening to audiobooks. According to an Edison Research survey, over 55 million Americans listened to audiobooks last year. Here are just some of the gains from listening to, rather than reading, a book.

          1. New Methods - Audiobooks are a perfect fit for those who aren't avid readers. Experimenting with an audio might open up a whole new method of learning. Audiobooks are proven to help students with reading disabilities become better readers and learners.

       2.  Struggling Readers - Audiobooks have traditionally been used in schools by teachers of second-language learners, learning-disabled students, and struggling readers or nonreaders. In many cases, audiobooks have proven successful in providing a way for these students to access literature and enjoy books.

       3.     Faster Learning - Audios provide an ability for faster learing. You can play audios at 1.5x or even 2x speed, without affecting comprehension. If you want to go through a lot of information in a short amount of time, this is a great way to do that.

       4.    Save Time - cleaning the house, folding clothes, commuting, shaving (yes, some people are weird like that) or anything else that doesn't require much focus is a perfect opportunity to glean some info. Turn your car into a university on wheels!
 5.    Convenient - Audiobooks are super convenient. You can have them on your phone, iPod, computer and in the car. This makes the content accessible and you can easily continue where you left off from last time.

        6. Vocabulary - Listening to audiobooks helps with vocabulary. More words listened to in context, more words learned!

        7. Slow Readers - A weak reader has the advantage of reading more books, and faster when listening to audios.      

         8. Save the Earth - Audios are greener than printed books. You save trees when you choose audio books.

         9. Multiple Formats - There are so many available devices for listening to audiobooks . You can listen on an MP3 player, in the car on a CD player, a computer, a home sound system, on a Kindle, etc. Or put your audiobook on all of the above, and listen wherever, whenever!   
 
     

What's YOUR favorite reason for listening to audiobooks? Leave us a comment below, and we may feature it in a future article!

Are you short-tempered? Quick to anger? Less than patient? We all have our vices. Instead of getting steamy - maybe it's time to reflect on some self-improvement. Patience, good listening skills, time management, and effective communication are crucial traits that'll steer you clear away from losing your temper. Do you agree? Check out our audiobook titles on self-improvement today!

http://www.3leafgroup.com/14m11/self-improvement.html

                What does every Olympian strive for? “The Goal”, of course! What is that elusive goal? Well, to every Olympian, it's something else, but it all requires them to “Do the Work,” with the help of their individual “Greatest Coach Ever.”

                One of the most important aspects of “How to Be a Winner,” is to “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway,” and that means conquering your fears head-on. Some may have a fear of failing. Some may have a fear that they don't truly belong. But with a “Healthy Dose of Motivation” from their coaches, teammates, and families, there's no stopping #TeamUSA now.

                Here are some practical tips from here at 3Leaf Group – because we, obviously, feel qualified enough to give the world's best athletes a bit of advice. Have a fear of talking to the press? “Public Speaking Superstar” is a fantastic listen that will make them confident, no matter how many cameras are shoved in their face. Not enough creativity in your routine? Perhaps “Cirque du Soleil: The Spark” can offer some originality. And if perhaps the pressure of the entire world watching them is possibly starting to get inside their head, might we suggest “The Beginner's Guide to Yoga” to calm their nerves.

Michael Phelps would learn “How to Stop Worrying” about Le Clos and his other competition and focus on his goal. “Gabby” Douglas could use the “Power of Now” to stay present and in the moment on the uneven bars in the All-Around Finals. Kerri Walsh-Jennings could use the “5 Love Languages” to connect with April Ross and pound the competition. We know they have it in them.

                One thing is for sure: with hard work, dedication, and an entire “One Nation” backing them and cheering them on, these Olympians were surely “Born to Win.”

                “Gadzooks!”

3Leaf Group extends its deepest condolences to those personally affected by the murder of so many of our valiant officers. May there be no more bloodshed of its kind on U.S. soil. Let us come together and show that we, the grateful citizens of the United States of America, have nothing but love for this great country.

We never really lose that glitz of imagination as we get older, do we? As adults, we just hide our childish enthusiasm and wrap it up in something called Maturity and Responsibility. Pokemon Go is allowing us to access that childish excitement once again, bringing imagination back into the world - and there's nothing wrong with that.

1st in a series of blog posts about Essentialism written by Greg McKeown. You will hear Ahron Katz of 3Leaf Group talk about how Esentialism is changing him.

Introduction to a series of video blogs about how Ahron is making changes in his life with the amazing content found in the audiobooks in 3Leaf Group's library.

Keeping healthy and staying fit is a year-round commitment. Obtaining a healthy lifestyle is not bound by seasons. 

Take hold of your exercise routine while the weather is nice. Jog outside, walk with friends, kick a ball around your backyard with your kids, or share healthy snacks on the porch. It's easier to keep up an exercise routine in colder, drearier months when you've set the infrastructure in place now, in the warmer weather.  Sun makes everyone happier, and more motivated --  doesn't it? 

Get into a routine whether it's yoga, kick-boxing, jogging, or pilates.  Couple your exercise routine with a balanced, healthy diet.  When winter rolls around - you'll be a fitness and health pro. Instead of hibernating under a fleece blanket -- you'll be motivated and ready to keep up with your fitness plan.  (Not that we're against fleece blankets...)

The sun is shining and the air is warm -- now's the time.  Grab one of our Fitness DVDs or health related audiobook titles and become a fitness and health pro TODAY - while your weather endorphines are good and strong! 

Prioritizing your time may be difficult in the summer with work schedules, family gatherings, and fun excursions. Instead of spreading yourself thin - try to give 100% of your efforts on each task at hand. Prioritizing your time is not just for the office - it's for every day life as well. Here are some helpful hints according to Time Magazine to help you stay on task and focused -- even when the sun is shining and your jet skiis are calling your name.

1. Go over finances -- reassess your family budget 

2. Read (or listen to audiobooks of course!)

3. Review your project list - at home and at the office

4. Get ahold of your email overload -- minimize that inbox!

5.  Take a break!

6. Reconsider your overall professional goals - summer can be a time of reflextion too!

7.  Rebuild & reorganize your work enviornment (home desks included too)

8.  Give back -- if youre taking some time to reflect -- take some time to give back to your community as well. 

Click here to read the full article -- and maximize your summer - while still enjoying it of course. 

How do you celebrate July 4th?

Country. Family. Love. Pride.

What's the golden rule for staying fit?  Be consistent.  We all know the real way to keep wait off and maintain a continuous healthy lifestyle is to remain committed and follow a consistent eating and exercise routine.

We also all know – this is easier said than done!  What about those who work full time, have kids, busy schedules, or all of the above?

How can one remain fit – despite a heavy work schedule?

Here are a few pointers according to MindBodyGreen:

1.   Set yourself up for success.  No one knows you better than yourself.  What are your temptations?  Make sure they are nowhere in sight.  Don't wait until you're absolutely famished and raid the pantry like you were a contestant on Survivor for 40 days.  Keep your stash stocked with healthy choices – and get rid of temptation at home.

2.  Even a little exercise helps.  If you don't have time to put in two hours at the gym EVERY day – find 5 minutes here or there to flex your muscles on a “down” day.  This will help maintain your consistency during days you can't make a full commitment at the gym.  A few crunches here and there, a few squats on your coffee break, some leg exercises under your desk.  These will help maintain the hard work you've put in on other “on” days.

3.  Always have food available.  Back to #1, don't set yourself up for failure by binge eating because you're absolutely starving.  If you have long work hours, ensure that you bring healthy snacks to your desk and a full nutritious lunch. 

4.  Try your hardest not to cheat.  Not everyone is perfect, but if you're committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle despite your busy schedule – keep to your routine!

Yes, it's ideal to spend time in the gym on a consistent basis -- but for those of us who have long work or family responsibilities and are not willing/able to wake up at 4 am – try these helpful tips.  Bottom line:  Anyone can stay in shape if you put your mind to it! 

Despite all the hand-held devices, social media venues, and internet-enabled modes of communication, having a face-to-face conversation is still a crucial component of the working world.  Are face-to-face conversations still a part of YOUR work culture? 

What about your family life?  Do you spend more time emailing, Google sharing, Drop boxing, Instagramming, etc. etc.?  When was the last time you met your girlfriend for coffee?  Hopefully not too long ago. 

Why have people dropped human interaction with the art of “being alone, together” with their technology?  According to Sherry Turkle from The New York Times, “Human relationships are rich; they're messy and demanding. We have learned the habit of cleaning them up with technology…. FACE-TO-FACE conversation unfolds slowly. It teaches patience. When we communicate on our digital devices, we learn different (negative) habits.

The art of holding a traditional conversation is crucial to both your personal and professional life.  Here are a number of scenarios where face-to-face communication is the way to go:

•  When preventing or resolving conflicts
• When it is necessary or helpful to read non-verbal cues
•  When providing information on step-by-step or organizational changes
• When reviewing a performance appraisal with an employee or meeting for disciplinary purposes
• When exchanging confidential information
• When attempting to reach a negotiated agreement

Of course, when building a personal relationship or designating personal, one-on-one time with someone special – an in-person conversation may be the right call as well J

Talk to people – the real way.  It'll make both of you feel better and more accomplished. 

It's been a long and laborious winter, indeed.  Now that it's finally starting to warm up and spring is actually in sight, you may get that itch for spring cleaning.  Embrace that need for cleanliness and organization while the feeling is strong!  People who are clean and organized in their personal life tend to be clean and organized in their professional life as well…

Where to get started you ask?  It's easy to hear general tips on how to clean for spring – but what about more specific pointers?  Here are a few tips on kicking your spring cleaning into high gear according to the Spring Cleaning Guru herself – Martha Stewart:

1.  Clean windows – use a  polishing your bulbs with a microfiber cloth dampened with water will bright up your room immensely.

6.  Change your batteries – if you're making updates around your house make sure to update important battery operated devices like your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Once you get your spring cleaning kicked into gear – we hope it influences your surroundings at work as well.  Clean your desk, your mind-set, and your attitude!  Let the sunshine be a positive influence on every aspect of your life! 

According to TrainingIndustry.com, more than 40 percent of the workforce works from home at least two days a week. Nearly 4.5 million college students will take at least one course online this year. Every worker that telecommutes saves the company $20,000 a year and studies show that telecommuting can increase employees' job satisfaction, improve work performance, and reduce stress.

It's no doubt telecommuting has its perks.  But the question is – can anyone do it?  Are all employees well-qualified to join the corporate pajama bash?  Just like certain skills are required for traditional job settings – there are certain skills that are ESSENTIAL to understand and master before an employee can be a true telecommuter.

Here are just a few suggestions:

• Ensure that your work environment is a healthy one.  Just because you're working from home, doesn't mean you can slack on sleep, exercise, or other healthy habits.  Treat your work environment like a true, professional one.
• Designate a specific area for work.  Bringing your laptop to the couch while watching the game may be enticing, but it's a sure way to get little work done.
• Keep your surroundings professional.  Unless it's an emergency – keep yapping kids or barking dogs out of the telephone conversation.
• Set a schedule.  Tell family and friends not to disturb you during your hours of work if you really want to get things accomplished.
• Check personal email, social networking sites, and internet browsing at set times.  It may be hard to avoid Facebook notifications when they pop up, but we all know how easy it is to get side-tracked.

These are just 5 of many qualities a successful telecommuter must undertake.  Discuss your telecommuting environment with fellow telecommuters and bounce ideas off each other. 

Bottom line:  A flexible workplace can be a positive experience IF it is treated with respect and professionalism.  

Engaging Michigan employees in wellness. 

It sounds like an easy and important concept, but unfortunately, caring for our employees' health is not as widespread an endeavor as it should be. 

As a Michigan-based comapny -- we take interest in Michigan employees' health.  In November 2013, Crain's Detroit Business quoted Rod Reason, CEO of Healthiest Employers LL stating, “We are spending $2 Billion to affect $5 million people, and we are not changing things.”  In other words, the intention to engage our employees in their own health exists, but there is not enough movement, engagement, or progress in providing our employees with exceptional wellness programs.  

Michigan is in the greatest need for engaging wellness in the workplace. 

Unfortunately, Michigan residents face many health challenges such as high rates of obesity and chronic illnesses.  Local companies need to address these issues head-on in order to maintain healthy work environments and encourage healthy lifestyles for its workforce.  One option recommended by Priority Health is to offer online health risk assessments and provide high-risk employees with health coaching and preventative screenings.  Other options include providing fitness programs on-site, discounts to local fitness centers, and nutritious options in cafeterias and vending machines.

3Leaf Group is joining Michigan's leading companies in promoting health and wellness, and in fact – has been doing so for years.

3LG has been providing companies with health and wellness audiobook titles for their employees via our audiobook rental library.  Like Netflix, employees subscribe to an online rental program, and choose audiobook titles on health, nutrition, fitness, work-life balance, and overall wellness.  Users listen to audiobooks on their own time in any location – at their desk, at home, or while exercising.  The audiobook program provides employees with invaluable health resources and the luxury of listening to the materials on their own time.

There is no arguing that healthy employees are more productive employees.  In fact, Priority Health data shows that after providing online health assessments and wellness coaching in local companies, there was a 60% decline in the number of “high-risk” employees – thereby lowering employers' costs by $6,000 per employee.  Less sick days, less turnover, more engagement, more productivity.  That's what healthy employees give to their employers.

3LG is proud to partake in this endeavor of engaging employees in wellness.  Our goal is to help employers guide their employees in achieving a healthy lifestyle at home and at work -- and doing so in a convenient, and enjoyable way – with audiobook in hand.  

It's 2014 - Is your company going through change?

Linked In's Top 10 Predictions for Training in 2014 involve a good amount of modifications -- like watching talent and specialized needs go global, focusing on a “holistic” work experience rather than plain “engagement”, taking talent mobility and mobile career development seriously, among other major trends. 

But once you've accepted the need to change – how do you successfully implement the changes in a streamlined fashion?

In short, executives must not only express the desire to change and move forward with every task, meeting, and project they put forth – but they must also provide the resources, budget, and support to make a successful change possible.  In other words – If you're going to implement changes – go ALL the way, EVERY day.  Make the change your top priority and make sure all employees understand the expectations and details concerning these changes.

A recent article in LaMarsh Global highlights common questions executives who are implementing changes may be asking themselves.  These points stand as excellent guidelines on how to achieve a smooth, successful change within your company.  

Want to make change happen?  Here's what you need to do…

•  Ensure everyone has the same understanding and interpretation of the company's future desired state
• Make certain the organization understands the priority of the change
• Convince the organization the change is necessary and important to the future
• Decide and communicate the positive and negative consequences of deciding to change or not to change
• Provide the resources and budget to make success possible
• Accept responsibility as the ultimate individual accountable for successful change or failure

Make it clear.  Make it consistent.  Make it happen. 

That's how to successfully make changes in 2014. 

If you're looking to boost performance and creativity in your company, the last thing you need is a hostile work environment.  Having employees be civil, cordial, even nice to eachother is a sure way to get things accomplished and accomplished well. 

The Wall Street Journal recently published a few pointers for keeping the peace in the office – according to Christine Porath of Georgetown's McDonough School of Business. 

Firstly, Porath mentions the 10/5 Rule.  In the presence of co-workers:  Within 10 feet, acknowledge the person, and within 5 feet say hello.  That means no running in the opposite direction, not walking with your phone in front of your face, and not completely ignoring the person you pass.  Yes, saying hello to collegeaues and flashing a smile are the latest bullet points on employees' to do lists.

Porath's other pointers include addressing performance or other issues in private, and avoiding criticizing people behind their backs.  It's best for managers to never say or write anything they wouldn't be proud to sign.

Respecting privacy is common knowledge.  But saying hello and acknowledging other employees – may seem like such a simple task, it gets overlooked.  According to a study by Georgetown University and Thunderbird School of Global Management of almost 3,000 participants, 50% of workers felt they were treated rudely at least once a week in 2011.  Public relations firms in 2013 concluded that 26% of employees who believe they are treated uncivilly leave their jobs to find work elsewhere.  

Can you believe smiling at someone could promote job retention?  It's true. 

So brighten those pearly whites, lift up your head – and flash a smile, a hello, or a simple wave to your fellow co-workers.  It'll make both your days. 

On the heels of our last post -

Check out this great article from Training Industry (today's leading resource pool for the training community) about motivation in the workplace and effective employee recognition plans...

Employee recognition makes the corporate world go round. 

Why?

Because next to an all-you-can-drink Keurig machine, being recognized and rewarded for your hard work is most likely #1 on your list at your workplace.

Employee recognition is valued on both ends of the power scale.  Managers recognize its importance because it is the key factor that drives loyalty, enthusiasm, and performance.  Employees value recognition because it generates a feeling of self-worth and importance – which leads to happiness in the workplace and the desire to do more. 

Sounds like a win-win situation.

What do today's outstanding employee recognition programs look like?  According to a survey and data collected by the Great Place To Work Institute, here are 5 great components to a successful employee recognition program:

•  Make it Personal:  Yes, it may be easy to give everyone the same box of chocolates or Amazon gift card – but making a reward more personal goes a long way.  Additionally, catering to the personality and needs of the recipient also goes even greater distance.  If a project lead is an introvert and not a sports fan, perhaps box seat tickets to the basketball game with 50 friends of his choice is not the appropriate prize.   Taking the time to understand what an employee would appreciate – and following through with an appropriate reward speaks volumes.
  
• Make it Specific:  Along with granting a personal reward – make sure you clearly state the behavior and actions for which the reward was granted.  Fellow employees should know exactly which behaviors are recognized and how they are in turn rewarded.
•  Don't be Exclusive - Consider the Bigger Picture:  Rewarding one individual when a team is worthy of praise is a sure way to receive negative feedback.  Superstars aren't the only ones deserving of praise.  Yes, if an accomplishment was achieved solely by one individual – all the praise should be hers.  But if there were others involved – be sure to recognize the group.
•  Consider Peer-to-Peer Recognition:  Having employees evaluate and praise eachother is rewarding on many levels.  It generates camaraderie and healthy competition. 
•  Ensure Recognition Reaches the Top:  Yes, it feels good to have a manager recognize your work.  But what about the branch manager?  Vice president?  CEO of the company?  When an employee goes above or beyond – make sure he knows his work was noticed and appreciated not just by his immediate hierarchy – but by top management as well.

When developing your own employee recognition program, keep these 5 important points in mind.   Remember, the surest way to generate productivity and enthusiasm is recognizing and rewarded hard work by those who get it done! 

Having an effective conversation is one of the most essential components of the business world.  EVERYONE should know how to have an effective conversation – no matter what role you play.  Employees, managers, stakeholders, and executives alike should know how to get a point across effectively, while still being polite, approachable, and memorable.

Whether you are sitting around a conference room on a Tuesday morning, or at a high-power networking event, here are 5 important points to remember about holding a memorable conversation:

5 Do's:

1.  Listen more than you talk – Ever heard of conversational narcissism?  It's not pretty and most people don't want to hear it.

2.  Come to a conversation with topics ready to go – if you're meeting some very important people – come prepared.

3.  Tailor the conversation to the listener – Even if your end point revolves around your business or your point – listeners will be more receptive if they are involved.

4.  Take your turn – if there's anything uglier than conversational narcissism, it's an interrupter.

5.  Think before you speak – don't be offensive.  If you have something negative to say, make sure it is phrased in a manner that will be well-received.  After all, you want to be remembered as the “person who made the point” not “the jerk with too many opinions.”

Most of all, remember to be natural – that's the best way to make a true impression.

Optimism --  Apparently, it's innate. 

In 2011, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences concluded that optimism is rooted in the hormone oxytocin, known as the “lovey dovey” hormone – and that it is strengthened by receptor genes within one's genetic makeup. In other words – your genes can affect your positive outlook, happiness, and optimistic view about the world. 

So, does that mean – you either got it, or you don't?

Like all things in life, sometimes you have to work a little harder on something in order to achieve it.  If optimism doesn't come to you naturally, or wasn't given to you from mom and dad's gene pool, it is a worthwhile investment to try to improve upon.  There are a myriad of reasons why.  Some reasons include: 

• Research has showed optimism promotes longevity

• Reduces stress levels

• Increases productivity – leading to success at work

• Improves your social life and personal relationships

• Makes you proactive

• Helps you maintain an open mindedness toward change and improvement

• Promotes forgiveness

• Helps avoid depression 

If you're not a natural positive thinker – how do you become one?  Here are some tips from Ayo Olaniyan, a certified Unitive Life Coach. He is also an Accredited Professional Counselor with the Counseling Society United Kingdom. 

• Have realistic goals and expectations
• Always remember you are human with a lot of imperfections
• Acknowledge past events, but endeavor to manage the present with a view to creating a brighter future
• Don't fall into the trap of feeling hopeless.
• Be true to yourself
• Network with people who show optimism in their daily lives
• Believe in your dreams  

So whether or not you are a natural optimist – your personal and professional life will greatly benefit from looking on the brighter side. 

Does your company work with an LMS (Learning Management System)? We've been singing its praises for years.

Whether you are establishing an LMS for the first time or looking to make improvements to your current one, TrainingIndustry.com outlines the positive features of this useful tool.  Some of the features include granting more time for trainers, bolstering confidence, and combining various training materials.  

Click Here to read the entire article. 

Wish someone gave you some sound financial advice in your 20's?

Listen up 20 something's.  If you want a cushy lifestyle down the road - try to hit these 5 financial milestones before you hit the big 3-0.

1.  Pay off credit card debt

2.  Start saving for retirement

3.  Establish an emergency fund

4.  Get health insurance

5.  Have a sense of career

Want the details?  Check out the full article and video on Yahoo! Finance.