Summer psych stuff

  From time to time I trawl through recent posts and research on psychology. There’s a lot out there, so here’s my selection. Worried? Worried about being worried? Worry. There’s a lot of it about at the moment. Some things we can’t change – but we can change our responses. I like these no-nonsense steps… Read more

Teams A-Z

  Whether you’re working virtually with your team-mates, or getting together face-to-face, now’s a good time to recap what teams are all about. Here’s my A-Z of healthy, happy, high-performing teams. Accountability Successful team members hold themselves and each other accountable. They commit to the team’s plan. Belonging People identify with the team, its purpose,… Read more

10 benefits of writing a journal

In these strange times, I think it’s worth taking a fresh look at the benefits of keeping a journal. Pouring our thoughts into a journal can be cathartic, comforting and give us something to look back at in the future. “I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read on… Read more

Psych stuff round-up

  Regular readers will know that, from time to time, I share links to recent articles, blog posts and videos that come under the broad title of ‘psych stuff’. Right now, I’m trying very hard to avoid focusing on that word, you know…that word beginning with ‘pan’ and ending in ‘ic’ (anyone else notice that?)… Read more

Stop ‘shoulding’ on yourself

We’ve all got a little soundtrack in our head, muttering away, talking to us, almost constantly. Yes, you have: the one that’s saying to you right now, “monologue in my head???? What’s she on about now?” – that one. It’s worth pausing to pay it some attention now and again. Why? Because that constant commentator… Read more

6 ways to say ‘Thank You’

Investors in People (IiP) have just published their annual ‘Job exodus trends’. It makes essential reading for managers – though brace yourselves, it’s not pretty. Here’s a few headlines: 77% are stressed of respondents at work Over half are looking for another job 24% are unhappy at work The point that really stood out for… Read more

Why should you review your year – and how?

  You may well be thinking, “Really? Why should I bother!?” – and you may have a point. After all, things change: unpredictable events, unforeseen outcomes and unintended consequences. Life happens. On some level, we know that looking back is an essential step to moving forward. Yet we can give ourselves too many excuses to… Read more

Tips to help you survive the work Christmas Party

The words ‘Work Christmas Party’ can strike terror into the strongest souls. According to the Institute of Leadership and Management, even senior managers feel anything but relaxed at these events. If you’re not scared, I can only surmise that this is your first year in full-time employment. Here’s hoping you still have your job the… Read more

7 tips for managing a first jobber

Your team has a new member: a brand-new employee in their very first job. They may be a new graduate recruit, or an apprentice straight out of college or even school. You have been assigned as their manager. If you’re new to managing people, before you go power mad, bear in mind that it’s not… Read more