It doesn’t seem possible that another year has gone by. 2018 has been a turning point for me. I’d like to share what has made an impact on me and maybe even start a blog tradition!

Lisa’s Top 10 of 2018

1. Radical Candor – This book and the work of Kim Scott that has taught me the importance of being able to establish that you care personally and have the courage and vulnerability to challenge directly.
2. No Ego – A great book by Cy Wakeman who has studied drama in the workplace and the not helpful, messy things that happen when our ego gets in the way. To remove the drama and bypass your ego, ask these 3 questions: What do I know for sure? What can I do to help? What would great look like?
3. Won’t You Be My Neighbor – A movie documenting the life and influence of Fred Rogers. His message that deep and simple is far more essential than shallow and complex still stays with me. It’s also important to have self-awareness and self-regulation and to remember feelings that are mentionable are manageable.
4. Angela Duckworth’s Ted Talk on Grit: The power of passion and perseverance. I’m challenging myself to a grittier new year. Four ways you can cultivate grit: 1) develop a fascination 2) improve daily (small, positive 1% improvements) 3) identify a greater purpose, and 4) have a growth mindset.
5. Brene Brown’s Square Squad (p. 9) – the importance of identifying those who are radically candid with you and keeping them close.
6. The Jedi training scene from The Empire Strikes Back – The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek. In you must go.
7. A quote I read from the Dalai Lama – “When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. If you listen, you may learn something new.”
8. Best purchase – my Instant Pot. It has saved me and the health of my family many times!
9. The feedback I’ve received from you my wonderful readers! I’m a maximizer and I’m always looking for ways to improve, messages that have really resonated and value you’ve found from my posts.
10. And finally…my workteam who keeps me laughing and feeling connected with things like the “Mr. Bill” board, Twinsies board, Toys for Tots Coffee Cart (we raised over $1,600 this year) and special baked treats.

Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday season. I’m looking forward to 2019 and the challenges and adventures it has in store! Don’t be a silent voice in 2019. I want to hear from you!

Lisa