My coaching work is about big goals and life changes, and getting there is full of discovery. It’s interesting how along the way we pick up plenty of gems and how often these things can make such difference. I love that look of surprise on someone's face when they reveal a small step they've taken and the big difference it is making.
I wanted to share some of these with you in this blog. Many are very simple and well known but as we're all prone to getting carried away by our busyness and endless to do list, here's a gentle reminder for you. My wish is to spark positive change.
Today I have a double dose of wellness for you.
First, one of my favourite podcasts, Slo Mo, and in particular this week's episode on burnout including lots of insights and tips on avoiding it.
Then I wanted to remind you of something very simple we can all do to nurture our own sense of connection – slow phone calls. As lockdown restrictions continue for many of us and we face the cold weather and shorter days, the time seems right for the return of the slow call.
Slow Mo has been a trusty companion of mine throughout the pandemic, bringing comfort, optimism, inspiration and a much needed mood of relaxation and connection.
As its name suggests, it's a slow paced, informal chat between the brilliant host Mo Gawdat, serial entrepreneur and author of Solve for Happy, and a fascinating guest with compelling stories and wisdom to share. Mo and his guest explore profound themes related to finding purpose and happiness.
In the latest episode the topic is one that comes up again and again with my coaching clients and friends: burnout. How to manage the constant deluge of emails, how to say no, how to keep your evenings and weekends as you would like them to be.
Mo talks to who better than Bruce Daisley, the author of The Joy of Work: 30 Ways to Fix Your Work Culture and Fall in Love with Your Job. I hope you find it interesting.
Listening to the podcast reminded me of the pleasure and benefits of slowing down and listening to each other, sharing stories, and finding new questions. This brings me on to my second tip.
THE SLOW CALL
Being at home more than usual has prompted me to revive the long lost art of the phone call, which prior to the pandemic had all but disappeared from my life. Something as simple as an unplanned call to a friend or family member for a leisurely and meaningful conversation goes a long way. I've rediscovered the special quality a voice call can have – removing all visual distractions seems to focus the attention, and it feels good.
My long dark autumn evenings have warmed up and become more cheery, feelings of isolation and anxiety softened.
I hope you'll make time to slow down and enjoy my podcast suggestion. Check out the other episodes, there's an impressive variety of guests and topics.
And most important of all
make time for your own
slow call.