San Francisco Bay Area Executive Coaching

Top Ten Better Sleep Tips

Ten Sleep Easy Tips

1. Develop a regular sleep time -- even on weekends. Get up about the same time seven days a week. Going to bed at the same time is less critical.

2. Set up pre-sleep rituals. Assume a specific sleep posture. Indulge in a pleasant fantasy.

3. Keep a daily sleep log. Documenting sleep habits often shows areas for improvement.

4. Sleep on a comfortable bed. Condition yourself into using your bed for sleep (sex is OK, too).

5. Set aside worry or planning time earlier in the day so you don't take your worries to bed.

6. Whether to nap is controversial. A 20-minute break during the day may renew your energy.

7. Exercise regularly -- preferably not two or three hours before bedtime.

8. Cut down on stimulants such as coffee, tea, colas and chocolate. Drink only in moderation.

9. Don't go to bed stuffed or starved.

10. Practice stress management and mindful relaxation techniques regularly.

“America’s hidden nightmare.“ -- William Dement, Sleep Expert

...About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman

Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach|
Trusted Advisor to Executive Leadership Teams

Emotional Intelligence & Mindful Leadership Expert

I coach leaders to cultivate clarity, creativity, focus, trust, and full engagement in a purpose-driven culture.

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist and executive coach. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies select and develop emotionally intelligent leaders. 

Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica.

“Maynard Brusman is one of the foremost coaches in the United States. He utilizes a wide variety of assessments in his work with senior executives and upper level managers, and is adept at helping his clients both develop higher levels of emotional intelligence and achieve breakthrough business results. As a senior leader in the executive coaching field, Dr. Brusman brings an exceptional level of wisdom, energy, and creativity to his work.” — Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., President, College of Executive Coaching

The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded rare "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development. Alan Weiss, Ph.D., President, Summit Consulting Group

Are you an executive leader who wants to be more effective at work and get better results?

Did you know that research has demonstrated, that the most effective leaders model high emotional intelligence, and that EQ can be learned? It takes self-awareness, empathy, and compassion to become a more emotionally intelligent leader. 

Emotionally intelligent and mindful leaders inspire people to become fully engaged with the vision and mission of their company. Mindful leadership starts from within.

I am a consulting psychologist and executive coach. I believe coaching is a collaborative process of providing people with the resources and opportunities they need to self manage, develop change resiliency and become more effective. Utilizing instrumented assessments - clients set clear goals, make optimal use of their strengths, and take action to create desired changes aligned with personal values.

I have been chosen as an expert to appear on radio and TV, MSNBC, CBS Health Watch and in the San Francisco Chronicle, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Time, Forbes and Fast Company.

Over the past thirty-five years, I have coached hundreds of leaders to improve their leadership effectiveness.

After only 6 months, one executive coaching client reported greater productivity, and more stress resiliency helping her company improve revenues by 20%. While this may depend on many factors most of my clients report similar satisfaction in their EQ leadership competence leading to better business results.

You can choose to work with a highly seasoned executive coach to help facilitate your leadership development and executive presence awakening what’s possible.

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com

Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com
 
Connect with me on these Social Media sites.

http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/drmaynardbrusman
http://google.com/+maynardbrusman

Sleep Better - The Blog Post Guaranteed to Put You to Sleep!

Sleep Better 

Are you working in a company or law firm where people come to work sleep deprived? Does your organization provide health promotion programs that encourage employees to follow proper sleep hygiene?

One of the most powerful questions one can ask is “Am I getting enough sleep so that I am ready to go to work feeling refreshed and relaxed?” Emotionally intelligent people get adequate sleep so they are able to be their best at work  

When The Family Guy or Homer Simpson snore loudly and have trouble sleeping at night, it's usually pretty amusing. The antics resulting from their inability to stay awake are a ready source of humor. However, they illustrate an important problem that millions of Americans share: Sleep deprivation - - which is no laughing matter.  

Experts in sleep behavior and sleep disorders have found that a majority of us sleep at least an hour to ninety minutes less each night than we should. These experts also say that mild sleep deprivation is not terribly worrisome, although they believe that we would be more productive, good humored and satisfied with life if we were able to get a full compliment of sleep each night.

The "right" amount of sleep depends on the individual. Some people can get by on three or four hours per night while others need eight or nine. The important criteria is whether you wake up the next morning feeling refreshed, relaxed and ready to begin the day.

We cheat on our sleep and do not realize we are doing it. We think we can get by on six or seven hours of sleep, but we may need more to feel really vigorous. Scientists say there is virtually an epidemic of sleeplessness in our nation.

Perhaps the most relentless robber of sleep is the busy schedule. When pressures from work, family and friends mount, many consider sleep to be the most expendable item on the agenda. As a result, many Americans are suffering from chronic fatigue brought on by too much anxiety, stress and worry that causes fragmented, restless sleep at night.

For some individuals, sleep deprivation may be only a minor irritant, but for others, sleep problems seriously disrupt their life. Such a disruption impairs their ability to concentrate and wreaks havoc on relationships and careers. In addition, inadequate sleep is a major cause of workplace accidents and lowered productivity, costing American business billions of dollars each year and workers extreme distress and, sometimes loss of life.

Researchers trace the beginning of the sleep-deficit crisis to the invention of the light bulb a century ago. During the 18th and19th centuries, sleep scientists have determined that the average person slept about 9.5 hours per night. In modern life however, we are driven by ambitious values. You are perceived as lacking motivation and ambition if you feel a need for eight hours of sleep.

Insomnia is the inability to achieve adequate or restful sleep. It is perhaps the second most prevalent health complaint after pain. It is twice as frequent in women as men and its incidence increases with age.

Top Ten Better Sleep Tips

1. Develop a regular sleep time -- even on weekends. Get up about the

   same time seven days a week. Going to bed at the same time is less critical.

2. Set up pre-sleep rituals. Assume a specific sleep posture. Indulge in

   a pleasant fantasy.

3. Keep a daily sleep log. Documenting sleep habits often shows areas for

     improvement.

4. Sleep on a comfortable bed. Condition yourself into using your bed for sleep
      (sex is OK, too).

5. Set aside worry or planning time earlier in the day so you don't take your worries to
      bed.

6. Whether to nap is controversial. A 20-minute break during the day may renew your

   energy.

7. Exercise regularly -- preferably not two or three hours before bedtime.

8. Cut down on stimulants such as coffee, tea, colas and chocolate. Drink only in
      moderation.

9. Don't go to bed stuffed or starved.

10. Practice stress management and mindful relaxation techniques regularly.

“America’s hidden nightmare.“ -- William Dement, Sleep Expert

...About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman

Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach|
Trusted Advisor to Executive Leadership Teams

Emotional Intelligence & Mindful Leadership Expert

I coach leaders to cultivate clarity, creativity, focus, trust, and full engagement in a purpose-driven culture.

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist and executive coach. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies select and develop emotionally intelligent leaders. 

Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica.

“Maynard Brusman is one of the foremost coaches in the United States. He utilizes a wide variety of assessments in his work with senior executives and upper level managers, and is adept at helping his clients both develop higher levels of emotional intelligence and achieve breakthrough business results. As a senior leader in the executive coaching field, Dr. Brusman brings an exceptional level of wisdom, energy, and creativity to his work.” — Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., President, College of Executive Coaching

The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded rare "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development.

Are you an executive leader who wants to be more effective at work and get better results?

Did you know that research has demonstrated, that the most effective leaders model high emotional intelligence, and that EQ can be learned? It takes self-awareness, empathy, and compassion to become a more emotionally intelligent leader. 

Emotionally intelligent and mindful leaders inspire people to become fully engaged with the vision and mission of their company. Mindful leadership starts from within.

I am a consulting psychologist and executive coach. I believe coaching is a collaborative process of providing people with the resources and opportunities they need to self manage, develop change resiliency and become more effective. Utilizing instrumented assessments - clients set clear goals, make optimal use of their strengths, and take action to create desired changes aligned with personal values.

I have been chosen as an expert to appear on radio and TV, MSNBC, CBS Health Watch and in the San Francisco Chronicle, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Time, Forbes and Fast Company.

Over the past thirty-five years, I have coached hundreds of leaders to improve their leadership effectiveness.

After only 6 months, one executive coaching client reported greater productivity, and more stress resiliency helping her company improve revenues by 20%. While this may depend on many factors most of my clients report similar satisfaction in their EQ leadership competence leading to better business results.

You can choose to work with a highly seasoned executive coach to help facilitate your leadership development and executive presence awakening what’s possible.

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com

Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com
 
Connect with me on these Social Media sites.

http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/drmaynardbrusman
http://google.com/+maynardbrusman

Five Mindfulness Tips For Increasing Presence

Five Mindfulness Tips

1. Put your phone or device away. Yes, I know it’s hard. It almost feels like an extension of your body but this is a requirement before you can look up and truly see who you’re sitting across the table from. Put it away and move on to tip No. 2.

2. Feel your body. I  don’t mean to literally touch your leg or arm, but follow your breath while you listen to others, notice your breath, your mood, your energy.

3. Use a mantra. A word or phrase can help keep you focused on the present, and the person at hand. Referring to others, try phrases like “X needs me to listen to him/her".

4. Practice selflessness. Don’t focus on your own agenda or intent. Rather, try to focus on the other person by listening to what he or she is saying, truly hearing what it is the other person is sharing with you.

5. Remember what truly matters. Challenge yourself to be more compassionate, empathetic, kind, gracious and caring. Think of how someone who values these traits would behave in the moment.

Are you working in a company where executive coaches provide leadership development to help leaders put mindfulness-based leadership into action? Does your organization provide executive coaching for leaders who need to build a company culture built on trust? Transformational leaders tap into their emotional intelligence and social intelligence skills to create a more fulfilling future.

One of the most powerful questions you can ask yourself is “Am I a mindful leader who inspires individuals and organizations to achieve their highest potential, flourish at work, experience elevating energy and achieve levels of effectiveness difficult to attain otherwise?” Emotionally intelligent and socially intelligent organizations provide executive coaching to help leaders create a culture where respect and trust flourish.

Working with a seasoned executive coach and leadership consultant trained in emotional intelligence and incorporating assessments such as the Bar-On EQ-i 2.0, Hogan Lead, CPI 260 and Denison Culture Survey can help leaders nurture strengths-based conversations in the workplace. You can become an inspiring leader who models emotional intelligence and social intelligence, and who inspires people to become fully engaged with the vision, mission and strategy of your company or law firm.

Working Resources is a San Francisco Bay Area executive coaching and leadership development firm helping innovative companies and law firms develop emotionally intelligent and mindful leaders.

...About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman

Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach|
Trusted Advisor to Executive Leadership Teams
Mindfulness & Emotional Intelligence Workplace Expert

I coach leaders to cultivate clarity, creativity, focus, trust, and full engagement in a purpose-driven culture.

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist and executive coach. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies select and develop emotionally intelligent leaders. 

Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica.

 “Maynard Brusman is one of the foremost coaches in the United States. He utilizes a wide variety of assessments in his work with senior executives and upper level managers, and is adept at helping his clients both develop higher levels of emotional intelligence and achieve breakthrough business results. As a senior leader in the executive coaching field, Dr. Brusman brings an exceptional level of wisdom, energy, and creativity to his work.” — Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., President, College of Executive Coaching

The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded rare "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development.

Are you an executive leader who wants to be more effective at work and get better results?

Did you know that research has demonstrated, that the most effective leaders model high emotional intelligence, and that EQ can be learned? It takes self-awareness, empathy, and compassion to become a more emotionally intelligent leader. 

Emotionally intelligent and mindful leaders inspire people to become fully engaged with the vision and mission of their company.  Mindfulleadership starts from within.

I am a consulting psychologist and executive coach. I believe coaching is a collaborative process of providing people with the resources and opportunities they need to self manage, develop change resiliency and become more effective. Utilizing instrumented assessments - clients set clear goals, make optimal use of their strengths, and take action to create desired changes aligned with personal values.

I have been chosen as an expert to appear on radio and TV, MSNBC, CBS Health Watch and in the San Francisco Chronicle, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Time, Forbes and Fast Company.

Over the past thirty-five years, I have coached hundreds of leaders to improve their leadership effectiveness.

After only 6 months, one executive coaching client reported greater productivity, and more stress resiliency helping her company improve revenues by 20%. While this may depend on many factors most of my clients report similar satisfaction in their EQ leadership competence leading to better business results.

You can choose to work with a highly seasoned executive coach to help facilitate your leadership development and executive presence awakening what’s possible. 

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com

Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com
 
Connect with me on these Social Media sites.

http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/drmaynardbrusman
http://google.com/+maynardbrusman

Ten Ways to Build Resilience for Mindful Leaders

Ten Ways to Build Resilience for Mindful Leaders Mindful leaders are self-aware and are masters at adapting to change. In the last few years, I have observed that many of my executive coaching clients have become more receptive to establishing a positive habit of daily meditative practice to stay focused, energized and optimistic in a volatile and uncertain world. Once we establish a trusting relationship, introducing a meditative practice in our coaching meetings is greeted with eager anticipation. It’s so beautiful to observe stressed-out executives go inside for some self-reflection renewing their energy and well-being. Mindful leaders who create the intention to meditate on a regular basis are more resilient. They create a culture and climate where people can bring their best selves to work and are fully engaged. What is resilience? (APA definition) Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or even significant sources of stress. Following are 10 resilience factors, extracted from the American Psychological Association (APA) article "The Road to Resilience" at http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/road-resilience.aspx . Strategies For Building Resilience Create the intention to choose and then implement a few of the strategies that feel right for you. Make some positive changes, take action and observe the results. When a resilient leader faces challenges or tough times he or she mobilizes emotion positively for improved performance. 10 Ways to Build Resilience 1. Make connections. Good relationships with colleagues, family members, friends, and in groups can build resilience through support from those who care about you 2. Avoid seeing crises as insurmountable problems. Stressful events happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events, and even develop methods to prevent crises 3. Accept that change is a part of living. Certain goals may no longer be attainable as a result of adverse situations. 4. Move toward your goals. Develop some realistic goals. Do something regularly--even if it seems like a small accomplishment--that enables you to move toward your goals. 5. Take decisive actions. Act on adverse situations as much as you can. Take decisive actions, rather than detaching completely from problems and stresses and wishing they would just go away 6. Look for opportunities for self-discovery. Particularly in times or struggle or loss 7. Nurture a positive view of yourself. Developing confidence in your ability to solve problems and trusting your instincts helps build resilience 8. Keep things in perspective. Even when facing very painful events, try to consider the stressful situation in a broader context and keep a long-term perspective. 9. Maintain a hopeful outlook. An optimistic outlook enables you to expect that good things will happen in your life. 10. Take care of yourself. Pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Engage in activities that you enjoy and find relaxing. Exercise regularly. Taking care of yourself helps to keep your mind and body primed to deal with situations that require resilience.

Are you working in a company where executive coaches provide leadership development to grow emotionally intelligent leaders? Does your organization provide executive coaching for leaders who need to become more resilient? Mindful leaders tap into their emotional intelligence and social intelligence skills to create a more fulfilling future.

One of the most powerful questions you can ask yourself is “Am I resilient in the face of uncertainty and constant change” Emotionally intelligent and socially intelligent organizations provide executive coaching as part of their emotional intelligence and mindfulness leadership development program.

Working with a seasoned executive coach and leadership consultant trained in emotional intelligence and incorporating assessments such as the Bar-On EQ-I, CPI 260 and Denison Culture Survey can help you become more resilient. You can become a leader who models emotional intelligence and social intelligence, and who inspires people to become fully engaged with the vision, mission and strategy of your company or law firm.

…About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman
Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach
Trusted Advisor to Senior Executive Teams
Emotional Intelligence and Mindfulness Expert

We coach leaders to cultivate, creativity, clarity, focus and trust in a full engagement culture.

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist, executive coach and trusted advisor to senior leadership teams. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies and law firms assess, select, coach, and retain emotionally intelligent leaders.  Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica. The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded Dr. Maynard Brusman "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development.

“Maynard Brusman is one of the foremost coaches in the United States. He utilizes a wide variety of assessments in his work with senior executives and upper level managers, and is adept at helping his clients both develop higher levels of emotional intelligence and achieve breakthrough business results. As a senior leader in the executive coaching field, Dr. Brusman brings an exceptional level of wisdom, energy, and creativity to his work.” — Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., President, College of Executive Coaching

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com
Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com 
Connect with me on these Social Media sites.
http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/maynardbrusman

© 2014 Dr. Maynard Brusman

 

 

Top Ten Tips for Better Sleeping

If you're having difficulty sleeping you might experiment with a few helpful sleep strategies.

1. Develop a regular sleep time -- even on weekends. Get up about the same time seven days a week.
    Going to bed at the same time is less critical.

2. Set up pre - sleep rituals. Assume a specific sleep posture. Indulge in a pleasant fantasy.

3. Effective sleep management requires keeping a daily sleep log. Documenting sleep habits often shows
    areas for improvement.

4. Sleep on a comfortable bed. Condition yourself into using your bed for sleep (sex is OK, too). Eating
    cookies and watching television should be done somewhere else. Keep arguments with your spouse      outof the bedroom.

5. Set aside worry or planning time earlier in the day so you don't take your worries to bed.

6. Whether to nap is controversial. Experiment as your own sleep therapist. A 20 minute break during the
    day may renew your energy, break patterns of stress and tension and increase feelings of well- being.

7. Exercise regularly -- preferably not two or three hours before bedtime. A healthy cardiovascular system
    calms the body and mind.

8. Cut down on stimulants such as coffee, tea, colas and chocolate. Drink only in moderation

9. Don't go to bed stuffed or starved.

10. Practice stress management and relaxation techniques regularly.

Getting a good night's sleep in our sleep-deprived world will go a long way to increase your happiness and performance at work.

 

Copyright 2014 © Dr. Maynard Brusman.

 

Mindfulness Stress Management Survey

Mindfulness Stress Management Survey

Stress is a very powerful force that involves awareness, attention and energy. It can be managed and empower you. If you let stress control you, the resulting distress can be harmful to your body, mind, and spirit. Daily practice of mindfulness and meditation may help you develop stress resiliency.

Think about the past month. For each of the pressures listed below, indicate how much each has been a problem for you.

Score each item according to how much of the time each statement applies to you.

The Scale: 1(always), 2(often), 3(sometimes), 4(rarely), 5(never)

____ 1.   I eat well-balanced, nutritious meals each day.

____ 2.   I enjoy my work.

____ 3.   I organize and manage my time effectively.

____ 4.   I like myself.

____ 5.   I exercise on a regular basis.

____ 6.   I am the appropriate weight for my height and body-type.

____ 7.   I have two or less alcoholic drinks per day.

____ 8.   I abstain from smoking cigarettes.

____ 9.   I drink fewer than three cups of coffee (or tea or cola drinks) a day.

____ 10. I get sufficient sleep and wake up each morning feeling refreshed and relaxed.

 ____11. I am flexible and am able to maintain a healthy balance between work and family.

____ 12. I have an adequate income.

____ 13. I have a support system of friends, family, and/or other love interests.

____ 14. I feel in control, take on new challenges and seek solutions to problems.

____ 15. I am able to speak openly about my feelings when angry or worried.

____ 16. I am able to say "No" without feeling guilty.

____ 17  I am free of physical symptoms such as headaches, back pain, or teeth grinding. 

____ 18  I am free of emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, fatigue, or fear.

____ 19  I feel that my life has meaning and purpose.

____ 20. I am compassionate, able to relax, and see the humorous side of life. 

____TOTAL SCORE   Add up the points for your total score on the survey.

Total Points:

1-30                STRESS MASTER

You are doing a great job managing your stress. Congratulations! Coaching may help you achieve even higher levels of performance.

31-50                   LEARNING

You are managing stress to a considerable extent. There is still room for improvement. You will benefit from taking a Transforming Stress into Optimal Performance workshop. Consider coaching to help you further develop your skills and learn new strategies.

51-100                RED ALERT!

Things may be spinning out of control. You need to change certain behaviors and learn new skills. Don’t walk…RUN to a Transforming Stress into Optimal Performance workshop. Strongly consider coaching.

Hopefully, this brief self-assessment survey provided you with some self- insight into how you are (or are not) managing your stress. The survey is not validated, but comes from my over thirty years of experience consulting and coaching with clients.

Copyright 2014 © Dr. Maynard Brusman.

 

 

 

 

Millennial Generation Most Stressed-Out

I recently spoke with the VP of Human Resources of a San Francisco Bay Area company regarding providing executive coaching for the company CEO. She asked some very insightful questions to determine fit. She also was curious to know how I could help their different generation leaders collaborate to achieve team goals.

The VP of HR and I spoke about my approach to coaching, and my belief that possessing a psychological understanding of human behavior based on the latest neuroscience research is an important competency for coaching executives. We also spoke of the need for her organization to create a culture where innovation flourishes.

The VP of HR is interested in partnering with me in helping company executives improve their ability to work effectively with the millennial generation. We further discussed how high performing company executives can benefit by working with a seasoned executive coach and leadership development expert.

Millennial Generation Values

We can identify several differences in values. The new generation of workers has:

1. A work ethic that no longer respects or values 10-hour workdays
2. An easily attained competence in new technologies and a facility to master even newer ones with little discomfort
3. Tenuous to nonexistent loyalty to any organization
4. Changed priorities for lifetime goals achievable by employment

The most significant changes in perspective involve time, technology and loyalty. Millennials are more stressed than other generational cohorts.

Millennials and Stress Survey

Millennials are more stressed than any other current living generation, according to a new survey conducted by the American Psychological Association Stress in America Survey. The online survey, titled "Stress in America," included 2,020 adults in the U.S. who were 18 or older.

Overall, millennials -- defined by coordinators as anyone between the ages of 18 to 33 -- reported that they had a stress level of 5.4 out of 10. The researchers generally considered a stress level of 3.6 to be healthy. The numbers are also surprising because overall stress has declined across the country from 5.2 out of 10 in 2011 to 4.9 in 2012.

"Millennials are growing up at a tough time. They were sheltered in many ways, with a lot of high expectations for what they should achieve. Individual failure is difficult to accept when confronted with a sense you're an important person and expected to achieve. Even though, in most instances, it's not their fault -- the economy collapsed just as many of them were getting out of college and coming of age -- that does lead to a greater sense of stress," Mike Hais, a market researcher and co-author of two books on millennials including including 2011's "Millennial Momentum," told USA Today.

More millennials reported they had depression (19 percent) compared to 14 percent of adults between 34 and 47 -- from "Generation X" -- and 12 percent of adults between 48 to 66 -- "Baby Boomers" -- in addition to 11 percent of seniors 67 and older. Same went for anxiety disorders: 12 percent of millennials surveyed had been diagnosed, compared to 8 percent of Gen. Xers, 7 percent of boomers and 4 percent of the oldest age group.

Millennials in particular said work (76 percent), money (73 percent) and relationships (59 percent) stressed them out most. The Los Angeles Times pointed out that millennials might feel stressed overall because their unemployment rate is 13.1 percent, compared to the overall nationwide average of 7.8 percent.

For everyone of all ages, the most common source of stress was money (69 percent), work (65 percent), the economy (61 percent) and relationships (56 percent).Work, money and job stability were biggest culprits behind anxiety for the 18 to 47 crowd while personal or familial health caused anxiety in those 48 and older.

Questions to Ask Millennials

How can leaders harness a multigenerational work force’s skills? What is required to lead young people who believe Boomers are outdated and out of touch?

Leaders should ask themselves the following questions:

1. What do my employees want from their jobs, bosses and work experience?
2. How do salary, benefits and promotion opportunities affect loyalty?
3. How do my direct reports define themselves? How do one’s job and the company enter into this equation?
4. Do my newer workers believe in paying their dues for a given time period, or are they motivated by challenges and self-fulfillment right from the very beginning?
5. How self-sufficient are my younger workers? Are they still living at home? How much are they committed to their jobs as their only means of support?

Are you working in a company where executive coaches provide leadership development to grow emotionally intelligent leaders? Does your organization provide executive coaching for leaders in all generational cohorts? Sustainable leaders tap into their emotional intelligence and social intelligence skills to create a more compelling future.

One of the most powerful questions you can ask yourself is “Does our company providing coaching to help millennial employees manage stress?” Emotionally intelligent and socially intelligent organizations provide executive coaching as part of their leadership development programs.

Working with a seasoned cognitive executive coach and leadership consultant trained in emotional intelligence and incorporating assessments such as the Bar-On EQ-I, CPI 260 and Denison Culture Survey can help millennial employees become more stress resilient. Millennials can become future leaders who model emotional intelligence and social intelligence. It is important to inspire people in all generational cohorts to become fully engaged with the vision, mission and strategy of your company.

Working Resources is a San Francisco Bay Area Executive Coaching Firm Helping  Companies Assess, Select, Coach and Retain Emotionally Intelligent Leaders; Talent Management; Leadership Development; Competency Modeling; Succession Management; and Leadership & Team Building Retreats

Dr. Maynard Brusman
Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach

About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist, executive coach and trusted advisor to senior leadership teams. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies and law firms assess, select, coach, and retain emotionally intelligent leaders.  Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica. The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded Dr. Maynard Brusman "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development.

Dr. Maynard Brusman
Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach
Trusted Advisor to Senior Leadership Teams

Subscribe to Working Resources FREE E-mail Newsletter:
http://www.workingresources.com
Visit Maynard’s Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Voice: 415-546-1252

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com
Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com  

Connect with me on these Social Media sites.
http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/maynardbrusman

 

 

How to Manage Stress after a Tornado

Stress Resilience

Our hearts go out to the people in Moore, Oklahoma after the devastating tornado tore through their city. The effects of tornadoes can be long-lasting and the resulting trauma can reverberate even with those not directly affected by the disaster. Many of us were at work and deeply affected when we heard about the disaster, and are struggling with how best to help and cope with our feelings and concerns.

It is common for people who have experienced traumatic situations to have very strong emotional reactions. Understanding normal responses to these abnormal events can aid you in coping effectively with your feelings, thoughts and behaviors, and help you along the path to recovery.

Compassionate and Mindful Disaster Relief

Many people already possess the skills of resilience and will bounce back on their own, given time. There also are a number of steps you can take to help restore emotional well-being and a sense of control following a natural disaster, including the following:

• Give yourself time to adjust. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state.
• Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. But keep in mind that your typical support system may be weakened if those who are close to you also have experienced or witnessed the trauma.
• Communicate your experience. In whatever ways feel comfortable to you, such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a diary.
• Find out about local support groups that often are available such as for those who have suffered from natural disasters. These can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems. Try to find groups led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals such as psychologists. Group discussion can help people realize that other individuals in the same circumstances often have similar reactions and emotions.
• Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs because they can suppress your feelings rather than help you to manage and lessen your distress. In addition, alcohol and drugs may intensify your emotional or physical pain.
• Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. This can be especially important when the normal routines of daily life are disrupted. Even if you are in a shelter and unable to return home, establish routines that can bring comfort. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities.
• Help those you can. Helping others, even during your own time of distress, can give you a sense of control and can make you feel better about yourself.
• Avoid major life decisions such as switching careers or jobs if possible. These activities tend to be highly stressful.

Resources

The following resources for readiness, recovery and resilience might help if you are in a tornado-prone area. Additional resources are also available for earthquakes and other disasters on the websites listed. The information was gathered from the American Psychological Association (APA) Disaster Response Network, American Red Cross, FEMA, and the CDC.

Tornado Resources –  2013

APA Help Center

·         Managing Traumatic Stress: After the Tornadoes

http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/tornadoes.aspx

·         Tornadoes, Hurricanes, and Children

http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/tornadoes-kids.aspx

APA

·         Building Your Resilience

http://www.apapracticecentral.org/outreach/building-resilience.aspx

Red Cross

Recovering Emotionally

http://www.redcross.org/find-help/disaster-recovery/recovering-emotionally

Red Cross/FEMA

Helping Children Cope with Disaster

http://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/children.pdf

http://publications.usa.gov/USAPubs.php?PubID=3321

Centers for Disease Control Emergency Preparedness and Response

·         Tornadoes

http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/

Ready.gov. Federal Emergency Management Agency

·         Tornadoes

http://www.fema.gov/hazard/tornado/index.shtm

·         Coping with Disaster

http://www.ready.gov/coping-with-disaster

About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist, executive coach and workplace expert. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies and law firms assess, select, coach, and retain emotionally intelligent leaders.  Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica. The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded Dr. Maynard Brusman "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development.

Dr. Maynard Brusman

Subscribe to Working Resources FREE E-mail Newsletter:
http://www.workingresources.com
Visit Maynard’s Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Voice: 415-546-1252

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com
Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com  

Connect with me on these Social Media sites.
http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/maynardbrusman

 

 

 

 

How to Focus your Life – The Grow Model

Working Resources is a San Francisco Bay Area  Executive Coaching Firm Helping Innovative Companies and Law Firms Assess, Select, Coach, Engage  and Retain Emotionally Intelligent Leaders; Executive Coaching; Leadership Development; Performance-Based Interviewing; Competency Modeling; Succession Management; Culture Change; Career Coaching and Leadership Retreats

Dr. Maynard Brusman
Consulting Psychologist and Executive Coach
Trusted Advisor to Senior Leadership Teams

 

How to Focus your Life – The Grow Model

The secret to a resilient life in our kind of world is in knowing how to recycle yourself, over and over, letting go of what is no longer you, taking on new strengths, and shaping new chapters for your life, guided by your own emerging vision."
- Frederich Hudson, Pamela McLean

 

Grow Model

The G.R.O.W. MODEL is so simple, powerful and effective personal and professional development model that can be successfully used in every area of your business and personal lives, reducing interference and accelerating performance. It helps people get into the "zone", where simplicity and genius reside.

The conventional methods of the "Outside In" Model of 'Performance = Capacity + Knowledge' is how most leaders think of improving performance as opposed to the Inside Out approach which provides a breakthrough Model: Performance = Capacity - Interference.

Four Steps

The GROW Model is a tool you can use to manage virtually any kind of tough conversation. For people familiar with Socratic inquiry, the GROW model is a way to remember each step along the path. It works like this.

The “G” in GROW stands for “goal.” The first thing in a difficult conversation is to establish the goal of the discussion – and its connection to a larger goal for the organization. Maybe it’s to deal with a problem employee or decide whether to discontinue a product line. For example, let’s assume the goal is to deal with a problem employee. As you talk about the goal, it becomes clear that the real goal is to get the employee to make changes to a membership database. Talking first about the goal ensures people are oriented toward the same goal.

The “R” stands for “reality.” The second thing people need to talk about is the current reality. What’s going on? How did we get here? What do we know? What don’t we know? Using the example, the reality may be that people can’t easily update member data, records are inaccurate, and the database can’t import data from other sources.

The “O” stands for “options.” This is the part that people typically jump to before they talked about the goal and the reality! What could we do? Hire a contractor? Change our management approach? Establish priorities for what gets fixed first? Scrap the existing platform? Here’s where people need to engage in creative brainstorming and share their ideas.

Finally, the “W” in GROW stands for “way forward” – as in what will we do and when? This is the time to decide on the next step. It can be the toughest part of the discussion, since people need to commit to action. If the decision is being made consultatively, one person can decide. If by consensus, it can take several rounds of asking each person what they would like to do. But ultimately, people are likely to come to agreement, if only because they’re exhausted! Perhaps the decision is to hire a contractor to assess quality of the database application. That’s the next step.

Learning the GROW model will help you feel more confident and comfortable in managing tough conversations. And that’s a key part of managing decisions well.

Many of my coaching clients put the following four steps in the Grow Model on a Post -it attached to their computer monitor. The Grow Model serves as a daily positive reminder to focus on goals and flourish.

  G = Goals... what are your specific goals in any area of your life

  R = Reality... take a realistic look at the facts related to the goal

  O = Options... based on the facts, what are your options?

  W = Way Forward... based on careful assessment of your Goals, Reality and various
          Options, what is your preferred "Way Forward"?

Research into goal setting shows that goals work best when they are:

• Positive
• Possible
• Precise
• Personal
• Measurable
• Inspirational
• Manageable in small steps
• Written down
• Time-limited
• Shared with others for accountability

Powerful questions to ask yourself include:

What do I want?
What do I want to do differently?
How will achieving this goal make my life better? And the life of others?
What excites me about this goal?
What will I get when I achieve this goal?
What will I notice when I achieve this goal?
What will others notice?
When will I achieve this goal?

One of the most important questions you can ask yourself is “Do I follow a simple, but elegant model to achieve my goals?” Emotionally intelligent and socially intelligent organizations provide executive coaching as part of their peak performance leadership development program.

Are you working in a company where executive coaches provide leadership development to grow emotionally intelligent leaders? Does your organization provide executive coaching for leaders who want to achieve significant goals? Enlightened leaders tap into their emotional intelligence and social intelligence skills to create a more fulfilling future.

Working with a seasoned executive coach and leadership consultant trained in emotional intelligence and incorporating assessments such as the Bar-On EQ-I, CPI 260 and Denison Culture Survey can help you achieve your goals. You can become a leader who models emotional intelligence and social intelligence, and who inspires people to become fully engaged with the vision, mission and strategy of your company or law firm.

About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Maynard Brusman is a consulting psychologist, executive coach and trusted advisor to senior leadership teams. He is the president of Working Resources, a leadership consulting and executive coaching firm. We specialize in helping San Francisco Bay Area companies and law firms assess, select, coach, and retain emotionally intelligent leaders.  Maynard is a highly sought-after speaker and workshop leader. He facilitates leadership retreats in Northern California and Costa Rica. The Society for Advancement of Consulting (SAC) awarded Dr. Maynard Brusman "Board Approved" designations in the specialties of Executive Coaching and Leadership Development.

For more information, please go to http://www.workingresources.com, write to [email protected], or call 415-546-1252.

Subscribe to Working Resources Newsletter: http://www.workingresources.com
Visit Maynard's Blog: http://www.workingresourcesblog.com  

Connect with me on these Social Media sites.
http://twitter.com/drbrusman
http://www.facebook.com/maynardbrusman
http://www.linkedin.com/in/maynardbrusman
http://www.youtube.com/user/maynardbrusman

 

Vacations Are an Option for Lawyers - Embracing Work-Life Balance

A Lawyer’s Whole Life

In the increasingly demanding world lawyers face; many lawyers desire to achieve professional success, a fulfilling life, and true happiness. However, achieving both their personal and professional goals sometimes proves to be elusive.

Most lawyers live hectic and stress-filled lives. They experience a great deal of pressure from the billable hour requirement and client/firm demands. Finding a balance between work and life without sacrificing professional success is often a significant challenge.

You have made a major investment in your legal career. You've earned the right to both career success and a happy personal life. Planning regular vacations each year can help you achieve personal and professional success and well-being.

Stress Resilience

In the pressured legal world; becoming stress resilient is an essential component of happiness for lawyers. Resilience is the ability to persevere and adapt when overcoming obstacles. It is the key to happiness and success at work and in life. The secret to the emotional intelligence competency of resilience is accurate thinking. It is important to challenge limiting beliefs and negative thinking.  Managing stress allows you to excel in the workplace while maintaining a well-balanced, healthy lifestyle. Shifting your mindset to the value of taking regular vacations can help you be more productive.

The legal profession is currently experiencing increasing numbers of lawyers who are dissatisfied with their careers and abandoning the practice of law for less stressful career alternatives. Contributing factors include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and questions relating to personal values and the meaning of life.

Unmanaged stress increases anxiety, depression, anger, substance abuse, and feelings of unhappiness- all of which decrease quality of life and workplace productivity. In fact, a study done at John Hopkins University found that out of 104 occupational groups, lawyers were the most likely to suffer from depression- more than three times more likely than average. High levels of stress are reported by almost 3/4 of lawyers and resulting in damage to the physical health or emotional well-being of 1/3 of these attorneys.

Increasing billable hour requirements time pressures are frequently cited as the reason for the high rates of lawyer dissatisfaction. Attorneys complain of little time for themselves or their families. In contrast, happy people are less self-focused, less hostile, more loving, forgiving, trusting, energetic, decisive, enthusiastic, creative, sociable and helpful.

Stress is a natural response within all of us and it can serve as a valuable source of increased energy and creativity. When coupled with an optimistic attitude, positive or eustress can help you accomplish the things in life that are most important. However, knowing how to manage unwanted stress and relax is essential to your enjoyment of life. Remember that you are in charge of your own physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. You can choose to have regular vacations to help become happy, healthy, and relaxed.

Life Balance and Mindfulness

Poet David Whyte writes eloquently about staying conscious of what matters most.

"We have patience for everything but what is most important to us. We look at the life of our own most central imaginings and see it beckon.  For the most part, we have not the courage to follow it, but we do not have the courage to leave it. We turn our face for a moment and tell ourselves we will be sure to get back to it. When we look again, ten years have passed and we wonder what in God's name happened to us.

We sabotage our creative possibilities because the world revealed by the imagination may not fit well with the life we have taken so much trouble to construct over the years.  Faced with the pain of that distance, the distance between desire and reality, we turn just for a moment, and quickly busy ourselves. But then we must live with the consequences of turning away." – David Whyte

Life in the 21^st century law firm has become more business-minded focusing on the bottom line. This change in focus makes it difficult for lawyers working in a firm to have time for relationships and other meaningful pursuits.

Balance is about integrating the needs and wants of our personal and work lives. A number of attorneys I have coached have expressed the desire to spend more time with their families or other priorities than constantly striving for recognition, status, and money. Balancing your personal and professional life requires making different decisions based on clear values and a life plan.

Vacation and Recharge Your Batteries

Taking a vacation can help you better manage stress and recharge your batteries. Many lawyers are extremely competitive and driven individuals. In my work coaching lawyers, they think they can work non-stop often sleep-deprived without any negative consequences. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In my opinion, lawyers need vacations as much if not more than other professions because of the unrelenting stress and pressure. Unfortunately, lawyers frequently resist going on vacation because of their work-driven and highly competitive mindset.

Even if it just means taking Friday and/or Monday off, take a brief vacation. Go away for a long weekend. Staying away from the office, email and shutting off your smart phone for a few days will help restore your energy and increase focus and clarity. Taking a break can help clear your mind, but taking even a short vacation will help you relax, and help you look at cases with a new perspective and less stress.

How can you maintain your productivity and your edge as an enlightened lawyer? Go on a vacation. Taking a break to rest and restore your energy and encouraging those you supervise to do the same can be extremely helpful to your law practice.

I’ve coached numerous lawyers who tell me they don’t have time to take vacations because of demands from clients or high billable-hour requirements. Many lawyers fear that if they do take time off, they’ll be viewed as less motivated and focused than their colleagues or competition. Far too often, the result of not taking time off from work is seen in a high rate of burnout and depression among lawyers. Recent research supports the view that retention, productivity and career satisfaction are positively affected when lawyers plan vacation time.

The Case for Vacations

Vacation is a time for rest and renewal and to have some freedom from work. However, laptops, iPads, smart phones, and other remote tools allow lawyers to have easy access to the office. We live and work in a culture of distractibility. Creating time away could be the healthiest step lawyers could take.

Morale, motivation, productivity, health, energy and creativity are given a boost by taking vacations. Most of my lawyer clients report feeling rejuvenated and reconnected with family and friends after a vacation, and thinking more positive about work upon returning.

We live in a work-obsessed culture where we live to work. It is important for leadership at law firms to create a positive environment where taking time off is recognized and encouraged. as a way to promote a healthier and more productive workplace.

Office Support

Law offices can encourage lawyers to take needed vacations to improve the quality of their lives and be more focused and energetic.

• Partners or supervisors can be role models, taking regular vacations and supporting others to do the same. When lawyers time off, provide support and advance preparation so vacations are not interrupted.

• Inform your clients of scheduled vacations and manage their expectations around the importance of vacation time. Do not call individuals on vacation, except in a real emergency.

• Create an enlightened and innovative workplace culture where work working on vacation is not expected, acceptable, or considered a best practice.

• Develop firm core values or principles that do not encourage participation in conference calls, returning voice mails or e-mails during a lawyer’s vacation.

• Engage in positive coaching conversations around the virtue of vacations.

Vacationing legal professional might consider establishing the following habits:

• Refrain from calling the office to discuss business matters or check voice mail or e-mail. You are either on vacation or you’re at work; you shouldn’t try to be in two places at one time.

• Trust your collaborative colleagues to pick-up on your behalf.

• Let go of the guilt over taking time off. Create a mindset that respects your personal life as much as your professional life.

Time-Off Promotes Business and Life Success

The importance of planning vacation time as it relates to the success of a legal practice cannot be underestimated. Lawyers are unlikely to maintain a high level of energy, engagement, creativity and productivity without a real break from their work, regardless of how much they love their work. Enjoying both your work and personal life can help create happy lawyers who are fulfilled, healthy and productive.

About Dr. Maynard Brusman

Dr. Brusman lives in Marin County, California and is a consulting psychologist and executive coach with a practice in the San Francisco Financial District. He specializes in working with attorneys and law firms. He consults with law firms on selecting, retaining, and coaching top talent and business development. He facilitates law firm retreats. As an Executive/Career Coach he has helped numerous attorneys revitalize their careers, change their mindset about marketing, and develop thriving legal practices.