5P's to Avoid Back-to-School (or any) Burnout

It’s that time of year when the start of the school year forces even more activities upon many of us. Whether you are a parent, college student, professor, employer or employee this time of year can be stressful. I have used these five tips to  maintain a healthy mind, body, career and spirit this time of year.

1. Prioritize. Create a "to-do" list. Place your list in priority order. Try to focus on completing the top three to five things on your list each day. From studying to errands to exercise, list those things which must be done by or on a specific date to keep your life in order. Recent research indicates that concept of multitasking is a myth. The human brain focuses on concepts sequentially, one at a time. Read the book, "Brain Rules," by John Medina, it will transform your thinking on multi-tasking. If you have more than twenty things on your priority list, face it you can only do so much each day--so at least fifteen of the items on your list may not get done. You are not a failure, you just have too many priorities. I have learned a new word: "No." I can say it graciously and without guilt. I can only be good to others when I am also good to myself. Keep reading...

2. Plan.  To stay organized, keep a calendar that supports your "to-do" list.  It can be paper or electronic, whatever works for you or your family. It will reduce your stress level when you can see what is coming up in your day, week or month. If you are trying to organize a group of people, make sure the calendar is centrally accessible. You and any others involved should be able to see upcoming events or big tasks that require you or them to make decisions or complete an assignment. Include events or activities that require your time or that of anyone else you need to make things happen. Make sure you communicate what is expected or ask what is expected of you-- if unclear. Set aside a time of day to check email Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin each day, place it on your calendar so you don't get lost in social media for hours on end. Include exercise and relaxation time on your calendar too. Update the calendar diligently. Based on your priorities, highlight those things you must do to keep your life in order versus things that are done out of guilt or obligation.

3. Purge.  At the end of each week remove or check off those items on your list that are completely done.  It helps to be able to physically see your accomplishments are completed if you draw a line through them or place a check mark next to them. If you did not complete all the items on your "to-do" list, carry them over and move them up the priority list. Get rid of stacks of mail, papers or clothes you no longer wear that clutter your physical space. A clean work or living environment lends itself to clear thinking. Politely avoid toxic conversations and people. It tends to drain you emotionally and physically. Don't waste time gossiping and talking negatively about others. My favorite Eleanor Roosevelt quote is,"Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events and small minds discuss people." What (or who) are the topics of most of your conversations? Let go of anger, backbiting and gossip. There so much more to life.

4. Play. Find what’s right and enjoyable for you by trying different physical activities. Then make exercise a part of your lifestyle not an occasional event. Before starting any fitness program, be sure to check with your physician. Move intentionally at least 5 times per week.  Be sure to include a combination of cardio, strength/weight training and stretching in your workouts. Cardio simply means that you elevate your heart rate by walking briskly (unable to talk on the cell phone), running, riding a bike or playing tennis. Strength training involves using free weights, machines or resistance bands to build muscle and prevent osteoporosis. Everyone reacts to exercise differently. Be consistent. While many of us don't have time to prepare fabulous home cooked meals every night, it's important to make wise food choices no matter how busy you are. Practically every fast food restaurant now has something on its menu that is considered low calorie. Avoid the super size mentality even if you eat poorly. Drink lots of water to fight fatigue and eat more foods that come from the earth. Take care of your body, it houses the mind and spirit.

5. Pray. Reflect on the items on your list and determine if you are doing things out of guilt, responsibility or because you actually have to do them. Does your list align with what you value? Does your list align with your goals? If not, learn to say no and give yourself only to things you are truly called to do. Set aside at least 30 minutes a day for prayer or thoughtful meditation. Listen to joyful music, read a devotion or motivational quote to start your day. Rest. Be still and know that it's okay to do nothing. Yes, you can find the time for nothingness...make it a priority, add it to your calendar if you must.

You are uniquely and wonderfully made. But we are not designed to do everything. As Dr. Phil would say, "How's that working for you?" If it's not working for you, Plan, Prioritize, Purge, Play and Pray to start this school year off intentionally, peacefully and with a lot less stress.

Thoughts? Leave your comments below...

Are you using these 6 Linkedin networking etiquette tips?

We all know networking is the best way to find a job or change careers. Along with in-person contact, networking using social media can open even more doors. All you have to do is create a Linkedin profile and send a few generic connection requests then the calls will start pouring in, right? Wrong. AND, tacky!

Career services professionals, resume writers and other career coaches are encouraging everyone to create Linkedin profiles. Right now, it is the place to see and be seen when networking, acquiring talent or seeking employment. Whether you are a recent grad, about to graduate from college or are a seasoned professional, it is important use Linkedin intentionally and understand the etiquette associated with it.

1) When using Linkedin, don’t ask for recommendations from those who do not truly know you or your work. This is equivalent to asking someone to serve as a reference when they have only met you in passing. It’s awkward when you send the generic recommendation or connection request. Be sure to customize the auto-generated message when asking for a connection or recommendation. Remind the person of what you’re looking for and what you have to offer. That way, they can write a specific, targeted, more impressive recommendation. Make sure the person writes in a way that actually conveys useful, credible information. Any recommendation that says, “Ryan is a great guy” or, ”I enjoyed working with Kathy,” adds no value or perspective to a future employer. Always ask your recommender to list specific skills, knowledge and abilities that you will bring to a prospective employer along with any other character comments or fluff and stuff. Professors, former employers, church staff, pastors, professional staff at colleges and those who manage any community service work you have done, are good sources for recommendations. As for a connection make sure you customized the request and indicate how you know the person or even why you want to know them.

2) Many recruiters tell me it is quite acceptable to add your Linkedin public address to your resume. Recruiters say they will check social media sources tied to your name anyway, so go ahead and make it easy for them. It also shows you have nothing to hide. Write your Linkedin profile in a manner that provides a snapshot of your accomplishments and key skills--not just a list of duties from previous employment. Hmm…sounds a lot like an even tighter version of a good resume, doesn’t it?

3) Join Linkedin groups where you can gain insight and participate in discussions about a career, topic or field of interest. If you have good advice to share from your life and career perspective, share it frequently. If you have a question, pose it professionally and intelligently to the group or an individual. Start by joining your college or university’s alumni group. Don't just stalk groups. Share expertise, ask questions and participate openly.

4) If you blog, add a link to your blog on your Linkedin profile. Be sure the blog content demonstrates your professional knowledge or expertise in an area along with your creativity and writing skills. Your mindless ramblings or even intelligent rants on political or religious matters can close doors--unless you have the luxury of waiting for a job to open up where only those with your exact political party or religious affiliation work. Don’t ever sacrifice or hide your beliefs, values and morals, but be wise in how they may come across to those who don’t know you or may be thinking of hiring you. Convey opinions and values wisely. This applies not only to  what you say on a blog, but also what you do when you think no one is watching!

5) If you are a recent grad or unemployed, avoid posting a Linkedin status or headline statement as: "Need a job!" It sounds desperate. No one will be as interested in helping Needy Nellie.  Also, if you have a job, be respectful of your current employer and keep your search confidential, avoid posting, “Looking for a new job.” You never know who in your organization is one connection away. Use the jobs tab and follow companies that you might be interested in. Many Human Resources professionals tell me Linkedin has replaced some of their traditional sources of advertising for open positions. 

6) Proofread your Linkedin profile just as you would a resume. A sloppy profile might mean a sloppy worker. Check your grammar, spelling and punctuation. I shouldn't have to say it, but don't use text language or incorrect grammar in your profile. Make sure your phone numbers and email addresses are up to date and professional. Your credibility, image and reputation is being conveyed in this moment. Make the moment matter. Revisit your profile from time to time and add any new experiences that will enhance your personal brand to potential employers.

Finally, as social media continues to grow among every population and age group, you should take a moment to Google your name. You might be surprised to find out what or who is associated with your name or someone with a similar name. If you ever created dicey web pages or humorous Facebook groups as a joke in college, it may come back to haunt you or send the wrong impression to a current or future employer. Check your digital dirt and if you can’t remove it, make sure you can provide an explanation if you are asked about it.

Now that you have linked in and up, step away from the computer! Pick up the phone and schedule a breakfast, lunch, coffee or other in-person appointment, with a targeted list of people who can provide timely, realistic career advice or informational interviews. Let them see your dazzling smile, hear your great enthusiasm, see your fabulous personality all backed up by a solid education, meaningful results, transferable skills and an eagerness to grow.

What tips have you found effective when using Linkedin? 
Leave comments below, I'd love to hear from you!

The Tour de France and your career

It's that time of year where I find myself glued to the outcome of the various stages of the Tour de France. The race is made up of 21 stages that cover a total distance of about 2,200 miles. These 21 stages include the following profiles: 10 flat stages, 7 mountain stages, 1 medium mountain stage, 2 individual time-trial stages, and 1 team time-trial stage.

The riders spend months and even years training for this event. At the same time, there are many factors beyond the riders control that can influence the outcome on the final day of the Tour de France. This includes the rain, heat, rocks in the road and the actions of other riders. If these professional cyclists focused on these external, uncontrollable factors, I’m certain they would want to just pack up and go home. But they continue because they believe in their preparation, planning and the possibility of winning or simply finishing well. A job search and healthy career requires similar endurance and stamina. Just like the profiles in the Tour de France, there are various stages in a job search or established career.


The flat stage in a job search or career, is where we simply keep the pace and roll along with the other riders. During this stage, we might ask ourselves, what is my purpose? Am I making a difference? Do I see myself here in a few years? Some may even ask--what is the minimal amount of work I have to do to stay with the pack? During the flat stages there are often more questions than answers but we just keep pedaling.

During the team stages, we ride with others and they encourage us when the race gets tough. During this stage we also need people around to provide a reality check and a little tough love when needed. They challenge us to keep going and take the lead when we are tired. Who is cycling alongside you in your career or job search? Who encourages or challenges you in a healthy way? Who understands your industry or situation and can provide wise counsel--not well-intentioned, outdated advice? Who lifts you up when everything seems to bring you down? Find a good team to ride with you.

Next, we have individual time trials. This is when we have to ride alone and try to finish strong knowing we have pushed ourselves and searched for the best way to remain strong during the ride. This stage allows you to grow stronger in mind, body and spirit because it's just you and the road. Sometimes it can be painful. Hopefully during this stage you learn how to better use your time and resources. You may even realize you are stronger than you thought. This stage requires focus and continuous movement toward your goals. If you are in an established career, do you have good mentors and people you can trust and talk to? Are you keeping up with the latest trends in your profession? If you're in a job search, do you keep track of your Linkedin connections, making networking calls and step away from the computer to have real life conversations? Do you try to accomplish one thing each week designed to get you closer to your new job?

The toughest stage is the mountains. This is where you develop the deepest levels of your faith, courage and endurance. The mountain stage requires the most intelligence and wisdom. The mountain demands you are consistent, determined and confident that you can reach the highest point of the climb. In the mountain stage, fatigue is often your greatest enemy. In your career, this is where you feel you've talked to everyone, tried everything and nothing is happening. No interviews, no rejections, no promotions...nothing. Often the mountains require us to trust in our training even when we do not understand the delays or immediately see the outcome. The mountains require great faith. Mental toughness matters in the mountains. You gain this toughness through a good support system and refreshing your approach. You gain this toughness through digging deep and relying on something greater than yourself. You gain this toughness by including those with opposing thoughts in your circle of influence. Do you listen to those who think differently or just those who will tell you what you want to hear? Do you make decisions based upon facts or fear? Do you allow yourself to be influenced by the opinions of others or just stop trying because it's just too difficult?


God is the best trainer, coach and team member we could have. The Hebrew word for “almighty” is "Shaddai" which indicates God’s sufficiency for ANY situation. The word “Lord” or “Yaweh” refers to His faithfulness. God really is sufficient and faithful no matter what we’re going through. Who do you rely on to help you through the stages of your career? I hope you will prepare, avoid discouragement and pray about your career decisions. Stop surrounding yourself with people who think small and have never even experienced the Tour de France in their own careers. Watch and experience the ride for yourself. Seek wisdom. Train well. Move out for the team and individual wins. Don't give up so easily the yellow jersey may be closer than you think. It's worth the work when you know God has a purpose and plan for it all.

What have you learned during your own Tour de France? What have been the toughest stages in a job search or career for you? Please leave a comment below.

5 Things on Boss and Employee Wish Lists

The workplace is such a tapestry of attitudes, beliefs, cultures, generations and habits. Dump that into a cubicle or offices in close proximity and it's like sharing a room in a dorm or a bathroom with a teen sister or brother. Often, I wonder if we tried daily to put ourselves in the other person's shoes, would that change our responses to one another? In the interest of trying to see things from both sides, I asked some leader/managers and their employees what was on their workplace wish list. From a non-scientific sample of both bosses and employees, here's some of what they told me:

The Boss's Wish List for Employees
1. Be reliable. When I ask you to do something, do it promptly. If I do not give you clear instruction or a deadline, ask me about it. I'm busy and not perfect.We pay you to do this job.
2. Don't just tell me what you think I want to hear. Have the professional courage to honestly discuss your workload, any organizational unknowns and offer ideas to make things better. All of your ideas may not be implemented. Be mature about it.
3. If you make a mistake, own it. Don't laugh about it, avoid it, blame others or become defensive. Sincerely apologize, discuss it with me and learn from it. Everyone makes mistakes. It's how you respond that causes reactions of irritation or sympathy.
4. We will disagree. Try to understand my preferred work style, definition of work and I'll try to understand yours. Then we meet halfway. I am being measured and asked to deliver results. I don't make this stuff up just to terrorize you. It may be uncomfortable. Get over it.
5. Avoid being an expert at pointing out problems, come to me with thoughtful solutions and creative new ideas that help us reach our strategic goals. Sometimes the organization is not ready for your ideas. Don't bad-mouth me or my boss, but don't give up.

The Employee's Wish List for the Boss
1. Let me do my job. You hired me because I obviously have some intelligence and skills. My definition of work may be different from yours.
2. Celebrate success more. I need encouragement and a pat on the back for a job well done. Saying "thank you" for small things is nice too.
3. Invest in my professional development. I want to learn from others in my profession and more about my industry. It helps me to not feel so isolated.
4. Be a better listener. I need to know you will listen to my ideas without judgment. I may need to complain or  want to radically change things. I want to know you will support me.
5. Communicate with clarity. Tell me what you expect and how my job contributes to the big picture. Make time to clearly outline the goals and strategies of our area.

At the foundation of any healthy workplace relationship is the constant effort to try to see things from another person's point of view. So many people are looking for an excuse to judge and be negative about the boss or employee. Some people harbor unspoken, misdirected biases that have been deeply ingrained into them by what others have said or how they were raised. Others say, it's generational differences. Instead of viewing it that way, what if we asked smart questions of each other, respected differences and desired to intentionally make the workplace better than we found it? It takes maturity, open communication, trust and compromise from both the boss and the employee to enhance relationships and ultimately get the job done. There are no perfect bosses or employees. It is my hope that both bosses and employees think about these wishlists, then openly discuss or create their own lists without fear. We spend too much time at work to be miserable.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men...~Colossians 3:23

What's on your boss/employee wish list? What do you think? Leave comments below.