Read the latest blogs from Stacey Olson.
Confidently and Firmly Decide
What if you confidently and firmly decided to make the change you’ve been wanting to make? let's dive into confidently and firmly deciding to make a change! It’s been just over a year since I quit dri... ...more
Calm Your Mind
October 16, 2024•3 min read
Be Present for the Moments That Matter
Being present is my number one value and something I’m intentional about every. single. day. Sometimes, this means being there for the moments that truly matter most—like when my mom suddenly passed a... ...more
Calm Your Mind
October 07, 2024•4 min read
Do Less to Accomplish More
Are you tired of just getting by each day and feeling discouraged that no matter how much you do, you seem to be falling further behind? When you have too many 'must-dos' and it feels like you're cons... ...more
Balance
September 24, 2024•4 min read
Really, It’s Okay to Say No
As summer fades and fall approaches, I'm reassessing my boundaries and priorities—both at work and personally. This ALWAYS involves saying 'no' more. No to what no longer serves me (even if it's somet... ...more
Balance
August 29, 2024•3 min read
Ditch the ‘Shoulds’
What if you kept it simple and ditched the ‘shoulds’? Last night, I went to a movie by myself. I’m only in the city for a couple of nights (I live at the lake in the summer), and it was a movie I real... ...more
Self Improvement
August 27, 2024•2 min read
The Mental Load You Carry
Ever feel like the mental load is weighing you down? You’re not alone! You can have the best boundaries in the world, but if you still have a busy mind, you won’t feel balanced. In this short video, I... ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 22, 2024•1 min read
How Do I Balance it All? I Don’t!
I’ve spent the past few weeks at our cabin, enjoying the peace that only nature can offer. We’ll be heading back to the city soon, and I know I’ll miss my daily morning coffee by the lake! But even wi... ...more
Balance
August 20, 2024•3 min read
Boundaries Make You Effective
You likely know you need to stop overworking, say ‘no’ more, and protect your personal time better. Maybe you’re feeling stressed to the max, cranky with people, or at your breaking point. You might b... ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 16, 2024•2 min read
Your Values Are Your Compass
Struggling with inner conflict and stress? Ever feel lost in the moment when making a choice on how to navigate a situation? Lead with your values to help guide your choices. ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 14, 2024•3 min read
Being Perfect is Overrated
Striving to be your best self, especially in our demanding lives, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed out, thinking we need to do it all and have all the good habits to succeed. Especially as w... ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 09, 2024•2 min read
Being Lazy Doesn't Have to be a Bad Thing
Embracing these lazier moments can rejuvenate us, making us more effective, happier, and balanced in the long run. ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 07, 2024•2 min read
You're Missing Your Life
This whispered in my mind early in my corporate career, when I first desired a better work-life balance. I really, really cared about doing great work and performing at a high level. ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 05, 2024•3 min read
This is the Permission You've Been Waiting For
I gave myself permission to just let go of all the extra things I was going to do for now and wrap it up. To switch gears into summer vacation mode. ...more
Self Improvement
June 27, 2024•3 min read
It's Okay to Disconnect From Work
Do you find it hard to disconnect from work to take a vacation or really enjoy your personal time? ...more
Self Improvement
June 19, 2024•2 min read
Feel Confident in Yourself and Your Choices
Want to know what it takes to have confidence in yourself, even when the fear of failure is high? This is what I want to talk about today! ...more
Self Improvement
June 10, 2024•3 min read
My Book is Now Available!
I am feeling so many emotions today. A former client now friend, Julie, sent me a text this morning with a screenshot of her purchase and all of a sudden the tears started pouring out. ...more
Self Improvement
June 05, 2024•1 min read
When Everything Seems to be Going Wrong
I want to talk to you today about what can help navigate the tougher days and when everything feels like it's going wrong. I'm sure you've had those days! ...more
Self Improvement
May 30, 2024•2 min read
Prioritize What Really Matters
Nothing is more deflating than being really busy—wearing your busy badge—and also feeling as if you aren’t making any progress. You might be giving it your all, yet work is still seeping into your pe... ...more
Self Improvement
May 16, 2024•4 min read
Writing a Book Has Been a Truly Humbling Experience
Writing a book has been a truly humbling experience—and probably the biggest project I've taken on since my corporate days! ...more
Self Improvement
April 26, 2024•4 min read
Do You Need to Cut Yourself Some Slack?
We really enjoyed the trip and it was so good to get away. But when we got back, I found those “exceptions” clouding a bit of my experience. ...more
Self Improvement
April 09, 2024•4 min read
You Matter Too
The idea of making myself the number one priority has never rung true for me, because if I were truly doing so, there are A LOT of things I would NOT do. ...more
Self Improvement
March 22, 2024•3 min read
Focus On The "Yes" Instead Of The "No"
You might believe that you have to say "yes" to all the demands and expectations at work to keep everyone happy and perform at a high level. ...more
Self Improvement
March 18, 2024•3 min read
How To Know When You Have Too Much On Your Plate
Do you find that one minute you can feel on top of everything and then all of a sudden you feel overwhelmed with the high expectations you put on yourself? ...more
Self Improvement
February 29, 2024•4 min read
The Quickest Way to Relieve Some Pressure
How has your week been? My past week has been a mix of work and leisure time with the kids out of school for Winter break, but also an unexpected stomach flu that took us all out for a couple of days... ...more
Self Improvement
February 23, 2024•3 min read
Learning to Trust Yourself
in February, I had the honor of attending and speaking at a personal development event in Saskatoon called Reconnect. The topic I spoke on was different than my usual speaking and workshops in compani... ...more
Self Improvement
February 14, 2024•5 min read
Boundaries Change The Game You Are Playing
As I support many of my clients in creating stronger boundaries to protect their time and energy, I am reminded of just how far I've come myself in this area. ...more
Self Improvement
February 05, 2024•4 min read
Feeling Overwhelmed With Too Much On Your Plate?
A few years ago, when I felt overwhelmed with everything to do, I would double down on my efforts and hard work. I would put in longer hours, push through the overwhelm, and tell myself that when I go... ...more
Self Improvement
January 26, 2024•3 min read
Key Takeaways From a Day with Balanced Leader Clients
In January, I had the pleasure of hosting a day for my Balanced Leader clients, past and present, at Regina's Mackenzie Art Gallery (with remote attendees as well). It's hard to put into words what th... ...more
Self Improvement
January 22, 2024•3 min read
Let Go of the Inner Critic to Get Back Your Confidence and Time
The one that points out everything that’s wrong with you, focuses on every mistake, and says that you’re not good enough. The one that constantly worries about what people think of you. ...more
Self Improvement
January 19, 2024•2 min read
Balancing Family and Achievement
Family has been one of my core values, which has evolved over time to mean that I am fully present with the people I care about the most. ...more
Self Improvement
January 09, 2024•5 min read
Setting Meaningful Goals and What Makes The Difference
Especially this time of year. With conflicting advice out there about resolutions and goal-setting or what to focus on, it's easy to get overwhelmed. ...more
Self Improvement
January 02, 2024•5 min read
Are The Holidays Leaving You More Stressed Than Joyful?
Are the holidays leaving you more stressed than joyful? Let's talk about those things you may be doing with the intent of creating a wonderful Christmas experience . . . but it's leaving you feeling ... ...more
Self Improvement
December 16, 2023•3 min read
Quitting Won’t Necessarily Solve Your Overworking And Overwhelm Problem
You see, life is meant to be more living and less stressing so much about it all. Maybe you are working too many hours and want to get back to a regular work week or even fewer hours so you have more ... ...more
Self Improvement
December 11, 2023•4 min read
Are You Missing Out On Your Life?
Back in 2015, I was at my going-away party for my corporate career. Even though I worked at a great company and had a bright future in the project and portfolio management world, I had decided that it... ...more
Self Improvement
December 06, 2023•5 min read
Why Resilience and Balance Go Hand in Hand
I see resilience as your flexible ability to deal with the negative experiences you face. Both the big, tough setbacks that happen in your life AND the small daily stressors. ...more
Self Improvement
December 01, 2023•3 min read
You're Not Selfish
This time of year, life can feel overstuffed! You might be stressing about what gifts to buy your nieces and nephews, big projects at work or sending out the annual Christmas card. ...more
Self Improvement
November 28, 2023•5 min read
Are You "In Between" Right Now?
Maybe it’s a change in your career or joining a new team. Maybe it’s letting go of a relationship that is no longer meant for you. Perhaps it’s working on being calmer and more present with your kids ... ...more
Self Improvement
November 24, 2023•2 min read
The Power Of Blocking Your Time
Do you feel overwhelmed by your calendar filled with back-to-back meetings? Do you wish for more uninterrupted time for deep work or to think? Or need more space to flex when something unexpected happ... ...more
Self Improvement
November 14, 2023•4 min read
Say No So That You Can Say Yes To A Better Life
When you get that pit of nervousness in your stomach as you wonder how in the world you will have time for the new project you just said yes to. . . with everything else on your plate. ...more
Self Improvement
November 07, 2023•3 min read
My Biggest Takeaways from Lead Conference Canada
The speakers were top-notch, from Arlene Dickinson, Allan Kehler, Afua Agyeiwaa-Boateng, Jack Canfield, Kristina Kuzmic, and more. A personal development event like this is rare in Canada, let alone i... ...more
Self Improvement
November 07, 2023•3 min read
Turn Down The Volume On Your Guilt
Do you find yourself often feeling guilty about saying no to someone or something (even though it’s what you deep down wanted to do)? Or feeling guilty because you missed an important deadline last w... ...more
Self Improvement
October 31, 2023•5 min read
Be Present Like Your Life Depends On It
Want to stop thinking about work all the time? Or overthinking every little decision? Or worrying constantly about what people think of you? ...more
Self Improvement
October 23, 2023•3 min read
The Worry Is Not Solving Your Problem
As I wrapped up last week, I had the old familiar worry pop up that I am going to fall behind or let someone down because I didn't get everything done. Not taking into consideration . . . ...more
Self Improvement
October 10, 2023•4 min read
Calm Your Mind, Balance Your Life
Are you constantly worried about what other people think, overwhelmed with all the to-dos racing in your mind, or simply feeling mentally "messy"? If so, you are not alone and there is nothing wrong w... ...more
Self Improvement
October 03, 2023•2 min read
What If You'll Never Have Enough Time?
Find yourself feeling behind most days or thinking "I don't have enough time for it all!"? While those thoughts still creep up for me, they don't have the same power over me or stress me out like they... ...more
Self Improvement
September 14, 2023•1 min read
White Space Is The New Productive
This time of year, I take a beat to think about what I really want my Fall to look like with the kids back at school and business in full swing. While still keeping some of the summer vibe! ...more
Self Improvement
September 05, 2023•5 min read
Keep Some of that Slower, Summer Pace
September is right around the corner! It’s THAT time of year again when many of us experience the end-of-summer blues, back-to-school rush and ramping up work projects. ...more
Self Improvement
August 29, 2023•4 min read
Time To Switch Gears. How About You? (+ Tips to Disconnect)
Time for me to switch gears and have some summer fun, relaxation and downtime away from work and the regular routine. ...more
Self Improvement
June 30, 2023•2 min read
The Key to Having More Time is Doing Less
Are you tired of just trying to get through your days and feeling discouraged that you seem to be further and further behind? When you have too many things that are 'must do's' and it always feel lik... ...more
Self Improvement
June 27, 2023•4 min read
I Have a Confession to Make
I help busy leaders and teams to create more balance, less stress and perform at a high level. My confession is that . . . I don’t actually care about high performance! ...more
Self Improvement
June 23, 2023•4 min read
The Beliefs that Keep You Overworking and Overwhelmed
This is a big part of the work I do with clients, helping them to shift their thinking and behaviors to keep stronger boundaries, say no with more ease and step out of overworking and feeling overwhel... ...more
Self Improvement
June 19, 2023•3 min read
Enough Is Enough
Are you at the end of yet another week where you worked more hours than you wanted to, you’re feeling exhausted, and realizing that you haven't taken a moment for yourself? ...more
Self Improvement
May 26, 2023•2 min read
The Power Of Your Mind
Last weekend, I ran an organized race for the first time since 2017. My training didn’t quite go as planned for a 10km race and, leading up to the day, I hadn’t run more than 30 minutes at a time. ...more
Self Improvement
May 22, 2023•3 min read
Sometimes We Just Don't Know What We Don't Know
Sometimes we just don't know what we don't know. We had a big, sudden thunderstorm on Saturday night in the city. It crazy POURED in a short amount of time. ...more
Self Improvement
May 14, 2023•3 min read
Do You Secretly Wish That You Would Be More Confident In Yourself?
Do you secretly wish that you would be more confident in yourself? To speak up in meetings and not let the anxious feelings keep you from saying what's really on your mind. ...more
Self Improvement
May 09, 2023•2 min read
Are You Walking Your Talk?
What this means is to be in integrity with what you say and model the behaviors you want to see in others. You don't want your team working themselves into the ground? Don't do it yourself. ...more
Self Improvement
May 01, 2023•2 min read
Tame Your Busy Mind
Taking time away from the daily stressors at work allows you focus on other important areas of your life such as being present with your family and space to recharge. ...more
Self Improvement
April 25, 2023•5 min read
The Power Of "AND" In Our Lives
In a recent coaching session with a client, we explored her values and what success looks like for her, not just at work but in her life. ...more
Self Improvement
April 17, 2023•3 min read
Do You Often Lose Patience With The People You Care About The Most?
Do you often lose patience with the people you care about the most? I certainly have. When I am more impatient with my husband and kids – not being kind, losing my cool or yelling – I have learned i... ...more
Self Improvement
April 12, 2023•3 min read
Impatience Is Often A Sign You Are Out Of Balance
When people think about work-life balance, they often think about time. But what about the ripple effect that happens when you're out of balance, such as your impatience with others? ...more
Self Improvement
April 06, 2023•2 min read
You Are The Captain Of Your Boat
You are the captain of your boat. Life is full of events and situations beyond our control. People demand more than we can give, loved ones face illness, and responsibilities pile up. ...more
Self Improvement
April 02, 2023•2 min read
Keep The Main Thing The Main Thing
This is a famous quote from Stephen Covey that can change your life when you start to live by it. In the areas of my life that have been going really well, time and time again, it’s because I kept th... ...more
Self Improvement
March 27, 2023•2 min read
Make Well-Being A Priority For Yourself And The People Around You
Make Well-Being A Priority For Yourself And The People Around You"One of the statistics showed that while 80 percent of executives say well-being is a top priority, nearly 90 percent of workers think ... ...more
Self Improvement
March 22, 2023•3 min read
Well-being At Work And No-Meeting Days
Who is responsible for well-being? We all have a role to play. This was the key lesson from a recent study by Deloitte on workplace well-being. ...more
Self Improvement
March 17, 2023•5 min read
Resilience And Balance Go Together Like . . .
“Resilience and balance go together like peanut butter and jelly!" This came out of my mouth (unplanned) as I was facilitating a resilience workshop with a leadership team. ...more
Self Improvement
March 03, 2023•3 min read
No One is Coming to Save You
"I can’t do this anymore". "Work is awful". "I'm exhausted". Sound familiar? You’re not alone. I hear comments like these in coaching sessions with leaders and professionals at ALL levels. ...more
Self Improvement
February 17, 2023•3 min read
Do Less To Accomplish More
On a recent family trip to Toronto, we decided to only pack carry-on luggage. It would be quicker to go through the lines at the airport and eliminate time waiting at the baggage claim. Plus, we’d ha... ...more
Self Improvement
February 07, 2023•4 min read
Want To Stop Thinking About Work All The Time?
I remember having this thought a few years ago while watching my kids’ swimming lessons, stressing about a big work presentation on Monday and wishing I could JUST BE PRESENT. ...more
Self Improvement
January 31, 2023•3 min read
My Biggest, Important Lessons of 2022
One of the most powerful ways to create change is to look back at the situations in your life – what's working, what's not working, the good and the hard moments – and see what the lessons are for you... ...more
Self Improvement
January 16, 2023•8 min read
Setting Meaningful Goals and What Really Makes The Difference In Results
Happy New Year! One thing I have learned is that it's important to do what feels right for me -- and for you to do what feels right for you. ...more
Self Improvement
January 06, 2023•4 min read
Are You Doing The Basic Things That Set You Up For Success?
Are you doing the basic things that set you up for success? I recently shared how to navigate work and kids with more ease and presence. Ironically, a couple of days this week have felt NOTHING like e... ...more
Self Improvement
December 22, 2022•3 min read
Navigate Work and Kids With More Ease and Presence
Struggling to juggle the demands of work and kids? Are your kids sick at home more than usual these days? Feel constantly torn between excelling in your work and being there for your family? ...more
Self Improvement
December 21, 2022•2 min read
An Extraordinary Life Comes From Getting The Small, Ordinary Moments Right
I used to think it was the career, the house and the vacations that made life bigger and better. And they do on a level – more experience, joy and meaning. ...more
Self Improvement
December 12, 2022•2 min read
Communicate Your Boundaries More Effectively
Have you had that moment when you're determined to finally put a boundary in place with your time? ...more
Self Improvement
December 05, 2022•2 min read
Prioritize Your Time In A Simple Way
Do you dream about . . . · breathing space in your calendar and not being in back-to-back meetings? · time to focus on your own work during the day? · feeling on top of things at work and at home (and... ...more
Self Improvement
November 25, 2022•2 min read
Letting Go Of The Inner Critic To Get Back Your Confidence and Time
Too many leaders let their inner critic lead the way. The voice in their head that points out everything that’s wrong with them, focuses on every mistake and confirms that they’re not good enough. ...more
Self Improvement
November 18, 2022•2 min read
Keeping Strong Boundaries With Your Time
As I support many of my clients in creating stronger boundaries to protect their time and energy, I am reminded of just how far I've come myself in this area! ...more
Self Improvement
November 03, 2022•4 min read
Are You At The End Of Yet Another Long Work Day, Feeling Exhausted?
Are you at the end of yet another 10 to 12-hour work day, feeling exhausted and realizing you haven't even taken a moment for yourself? ...more
Self Improvement
November 02, 2022•3 min read
Why Time Management Isn't Going To Save You (And Where To Start Instead)
Let’s face it, you’re spread thin. Don’t get me wrong – you’re a powerhouse. You’re so freaking capable, you get things done and get them done really, REALLY well. ...more
Self Improvement
October 27, 2022•4 min read
When Everything Seems To Be Going Wrong!
You ever have one of those weeks where so many things seem to be going wrong? You are like, WTF is happening? ...more
Self Improvement
October 20, 2022•4 min read
The Real Great Resignation
You have likely said to yourself at some point "enough is enough!" You want to feel happier, be present and enjoy your family and personal time, and still do great work. ...more
Self Improvement
September 09, 2022•3 min read
Why This Is Exactly The Time To Take It Easy
Being a balanced leader is all about focusing on what really matters and taking care of yourself IN ORDER to be the best leader you can be. ...more
Self Improvement
September 02, 2022•2 min read
How Are You Really Doing?
It has been quite a summer for me – one with a mix of joy, grief, lake fun, and a little of everything in between. But before I share more on that, let’s start with an important question . . . ...more
Self Improvement
August 26, 2022•5 min read
Lead Without The Title
The day my son Carter started kindergarten, we dropped him off at 7:30am at the daycare (in the school) like usual, and my husband and I went off to work. ...more
Self Improvement
June 23, 2022•3 min read
The Big Secret Few Busy Leaders Get
The power and value of my work -- and why I do it -- is to empower others to be the confident, balanced leaders they want to be without sacrificing performance. ...more
Self Improvement
June 15, 2022•4 min read
3 Things You Can Do To Leave Work On Time
How many times have you tried to leave work on time but it never works out? There always seems to be “one more thing” to do and what you think will take you 10 minutes ends up taking an hour and you s... ...more
Self Improvement
June 10, 2022•5 min read
How To Be Confident Even When The Fear of Failure is High
Want to know what it takes to have confidence in yourself, even when the fear of failure is high? The kind of confidence where you won’t give up on what you really want just because you didn’t hit yo... ...more
Self Improvement
June 07, 2022•2 min read
Why You Keep Saying Yes When You Really Want To Say No
Oh. NO. You know that feeling - the one where you suddenly realize that you said yes to something that you really did NOT want to do? ...more
Self Improvement
June 02, 2022•4 min read
Dear Stacey . . .
Dear Stacey, You’re drowning in everything to do. Slow down for a moment. Take a deep breath. ...more
Self Improvement
May 20, 2022•2 min read
The Real Reason You Overwork
Want to know the real reason you keep working long hours and not making your personal time more of a priority? ...more
Self Improvement
May 17, 2022•3 min read
Are You Secretly Wishing You Were More Confident?
Do you secretly wish that you could be more confident in yourself? You want to speak up in meetings without your heart racing, feeling anxious or end up not saying anything at all. ...more
Self Improvement
May 10, 2022•3 min read
To All The Superhero Moms Out There
To the mom who feels exhausted from working long hours or being pulled in 8000 directions, give yourself permission to take a break and rest. ...more
Self Improvement
May 06, 2022•3 min read
Have You Been Daydreaming About This?
Have you been daydreaming about what it would be like to work fewer hours? Or wondered how people actually make time for themselves and their family without sacrificing their work performance? ...more
Self Improvement
May 04, 2022•3 min read
Give Yourself Permission To Take Something Off Your Plate
Life lesson #9: Give yourself permission to take something off your plate. Have you overcommitted and you're struggling to find enough hours in the day (and energy) to get everything done that you sai... ...more
Self Improvement
March 17, 2022•2 min read
Take The Trip!
We had never taken a vacation with my parents until February 2020, when we brought them along on our annual trip to Puerto Vallarta. It was a fantastic time away. We had good fun and unforgettable mem... ...more
Self Improvement
March 16, 2022•2 min read
You Can’t See How All The Dots Will Connect Yet
Life lesson #7: You can’t see how all the dots will connect YET. When I left my corporate career in 2015, I said it was because I wanted more fulfillment and flexibility – which was true. ...more
Self Improvement
March 15, 2022•2 min read
When Things Feel Hard and Overwhelming, Do This Instead
Life Lesson #6: When things feel hard and overwhelming, slow down and do less, instead of plowing through. ...more
Self Improvement
March 14, 2022•2 min read
Hunt For The Good Every Single Day
Life Lesson #5: Hunt for the good every single day However the day or week went – whether it was awesome, overwhelming, or just ‘meh’ – take a few minutes to acknowledge the good. To notice it, to fe... ...more
Self Improvement
March 13, 2022•2 min read
You’re Probably Not Going To Want To Do It
Life Lesson #4 - You’re probably not going to want to do it I always have ideas floating around in my mind. Lessons I’ve learned, questions to ask, perspectives to share. ...more
Self Improvement
March 12, 2022•2 min read
What You Really Want Is What You Must Really Go For!
Life Lesson #3 – What you really want is what you must really go for! Back in 2015, when I left my corporate career, I had some new space in my calendar. For the first time ever, we had the option t... ...more
Self Improvement
March 11, 2022•2 min read
What Do You Not Want?
Life Lesson #2 – What do you NOT want? A few years ago, I used to have a really hard time answering the question: What do I really want? When you are feeling overwhelmed with everything going on, yo... ...more
Self Improvement
March 10, 2022•2 min read
This is 40...What Would I Go Back And Tell My Younger Self
Life offers us little lessons every single day. Are you paying attention? February 28th, 2022 was my 43rd birthday. When I turned 40, one goal I had was to share forty lessons I've learned so far. ...more
Self Improvement
March 09, 2022•5 min read
Your Best Will Look Different on Different Days
When I find myself unfocused, anxious or not as productive as I *think* I should be in a week, it sometimes seems like a fine line to figure out if I am procrastinating or what I really need is to tak... ...more
Self Improvement
March 08, 2022•3 min read
You Know What Feels Good?
Ever find yourself all excited about a new habit or change, and then a few weeks (or even days) later you realize you are back into the same old patterns? ...more
Self Improvement
February 08, 2022•4 min read
Take Back Control Of Your Days and Life
There is a lot going on in the world – and likely your life right now. It can often feel like too much or that you don’t have a choice or that you just need to get through the day (day after day). ...more
Self Improvement
February 03, 2022•5 min read
Celebrate Your Year
Are you feeling overwhelmed with your life and that you just didn’t accomplish what you set out to do this year? ...more
Self Improvement
December 21, 2021•5 min read
Impatience Is A Sign You're Out Of Balance
When people think about work-life balance, they often think about time. But what about the ripple effect that happens when you're out of balance, such as your impatience with others? ...more
Self Improvement
December 15, 2021•5 min read
My Most Embarrassing Story
In this short video, you will hear about one story from years ago where I was SO distracted it led to something quite embarrassing (but trust me - it turned into something good . . . listen until the ... ...more
Self Improvement
December 13, 2021•1 min read
The Perfect Storm
Our most significant growth can come from our most challenging times. For me, I would not be the calm, present, and balanced leader I am today if not for the period in my life of feeling so overwhelm... ...more
Self Improvement
December 07, 2021•4 min read
Are You Truly Appreciating The Day?
Earlier in 2021, I went through a period where I found myself feeling 'blah' each winter day. I would wake up with a sigh of “let’s just get through it”. ...more
Self Improvement
November 26, 2021•2 min read
The Gas Tank Metaphor
Listen to this clip from a September 2021 coaching session in 'The Balanced Leader' membership I run for busy leaders who want to become more balanced, stress less, and still perform at a high level. ...more
Self Improvement
October 29, 2021•1 min read
You Can Do Hard Things
You can do hard things. And it's easier to do the hard things when you honor what you need, focus on what really matters to you, and make choices that are a reflection of who you want to be. ...more
Self Improvement
October 26, 2021•6 min read
What If We Change The Question?
Each morning this week, when I first woke up, my mind raced with everything I had to do in the day. My 11-year old was home from school because of self-isolation. It was a full week of clients and on... ...more
Self Improvement
September 24, 2021•3 min read
Sometimes You Don't Get It Right The First Time
September 16th marked 15 years that Kenton and I have been married. When I reflect on all these years together, my mind tends to wander to when it all started. ...more
Self Improvement
September 22, 2021•3 min read
Change Is Messy
With any change, one day you’ll feel like you are crushing it and that “you’ve got this”, and the next day it might seem like nothing is going right and you're wondering how you'll make it through the... ...more
Self Improvement
September 13, 2021•3 min read
Are You Feeling Like You Need a Reset?
For me, the month of July means summer vacation, enjoying time at the lake with family and friends, and taking a real break from the daily responsibilities and to-dos. ...more
Self Improvement
August 06, 2021•4 min read
Let Go Of An 'All or Nothing' Mentality
You might find yourself thinking a situation is black and white, right or wrong, or all or nothing. I used to find myself often "all in" on this unhelpful mindset, such as . . ...more
Self Improvement
July 22, 2021•2 min read
8 Ways To Disconnect and Enjoy a Real Break
So many people are ready for a real break. When you're feeling tapped out from juggling it all. Dreaming of vacation days, some downtime and fun with your family and friends, and the joy of simply dis... ...more
Self Improvement
June 29, 2021•5 min read
You Are Already Doing Enough
If you’re like most people, you end the day or the week feeling like you didn’t do enough. You might have the best of intentions when you start your day or week, but you end up getting side-tracked ... ...more
Self Improvement
June 16, 2021•3 min read
How An Out-Of-Control Inbox Could Lead To Success
People are often surprised to discover that I am “terrible” at organizing my email inbox. In any given mailbox, I might have more than 15,000 unread emails . . . ...more
Self Improvement
May 06, 2021•4 min read
Balance Is Not BS
Back in my corporate project management days, it would be frustrating when we would do an overhaul of a process, but the revolutionary new approach often ended up being similar to the old thing, just ... ...more
Self Improvement
April 07, 2021•5 min read
What Does it Take For Real Confidence in Yourself?
Confidence is a big word with a lot of meaning. We all want to feel more confident. Whether it’s in that upcoming work presentation or hoping that we are raising our kids to make smart choices. ...more
Self Improvement
March 24, 2021•4 min read
The Power Of A Time-Block
Last year, I worked with a Director from Microsoft who was feeling overwhelmed and overloaded. Sarah is mission-driven, wanted to create an impact in her work and world, and is a high achiever. ...more
Self Improvement
March 19, 2021•4 min read
Best $20 I Ever Spent
I read a post on Facebook a few months ago about a mom who paid her teenage son to read personal development books and write a report afterward. It stuck with me as an interesting idea! ...more
Self Improvement
March 12, 2021•3 min read
Want More Energy in Your Day?
So many busy leaders tend to focus on time management. While that can be helpful, what is even more helpful is when you focus on managing your energy. ...more
Self Improvement
February 08, 2021•3 min read
Feeling Like Your Weeks Are a Bit of a Rollercoaster?
Feeling like your weeks are a bit of a rollercoaster? One day you are crushing it and feeling high energy, and the next day it seems like nothing is going right and you're wondering how you'll make i... ...more
Self Improvement
January 15, 2021•3 min read
Feeling Like You’ve Lost A Bit of Who You Are?
Your days might be filled with back-to-back meetings, a mile-long to-do list and trying to lead your team through a challenging time, pushing long hours and feeling like you’re on a path to burning ou... ...more
Self Improvement
January 07, 2021•3 min read
How to Let Go of Constant Guilt
As we near the holiday season, so many people are feeling tapped out, exhausted and in need of a real break. It’s been months of performing “business as usual” in a freakin’ pandemic – nothing is bus... ...more
Self Improvement
December 17, 2020•3 min read
Cut Yourself Some Slack
Where do you need to cut yourself some slack? I’m coming off a couple of weeks with the kids’ school closed, juggling that in a busy time of year with clients . . . and at the very same time feeling ... ...more
Self Improvement
November 27, 2020•2 min read
You Are Not Selfish
A lot of the work I do (with clients and myself) is focused on getting clear on what success looks like in YOUR life . . . and then having the courage to strive for THAT. ...more
Self Improvement
November 12, 2020•3 min read
What Makes You Mad Might Just Be The Key to Your Success
The problem with most busy leaders and high-achievers who want more balance in their life is that they are waiting for external circumstances to change instead of driving it internally. Instead of bei... ...more
Self Improvement
November 05, 2020•5 min read
What Got You Here, Won’t Get You There
Many of my clients have moved up in their organizations because they are seen as a person who gets things done and can always be counted on. ...more
Self Improvement
October 27, 2020•4 min read
Taking A Stand For What You Believe
Lately, I have been working on finding my voice. To have the courage to say what’s really on my mind, especially with a bigger audience. ...more
Self Improvement
October 22, 2020•3 min read
What Is Your Guiding Post?
What is your guiding post? What gives you the inner motivation to live in a way that is aligned with your values? I want to be fully present in my life and find the joy every single day – even when th... ...more
Self Improvement
October 20, 2020•2 min read
How To Be Calm and Still Perform, Even With All The Uncertainty
As I sit here today, with the kids at school for the first time in six months and me ready to 100% focus on work in what feels like forever, I am reflecting on just how crazy these past few months hav... ...more
Self Improvement
September 13, 2020•6 min read
How Can You Work Less and Accomplish More?
Wow, it's September already! This is a transition period (in a very unusual time) as we figure out kids and school and ramping up work projects. ...more
Self Improvement
September 01, 2020•4 min read
How Do You Want To Show Up In Your Life?
For one of my recent clients (“Kerri”), the biggest takeaway from our work together was this . . Don't compromise who you are and what you value. ...more
Self Improvement
August 18, 2020•3 min read
What If You Are Exactly Where You Are Meant To Be?
What if your struggles, accomplishments, hard days, easy days, weaknesses, strengths, tears, laughter, bad times, good times were all happening for you, not to you? ...more
Self Improvement
August 07, 2020•2 min read
What’s Really Going On Under The Covers?
How are you adjusting to leading your team in these unusual times? Some of the adrenaline might have worn off and now you’re figuring out how to navigate a new normal. I hear things from leaders, coa... ...more
Self Improvement
August 06, 2020•9 min read
Get Out Of Your Head. What’s The Worst Thing That Can Happen?
We all can fall into unhelpful thinking patterns at times. But there’s a tipping point where it’s taking you in a downward spiral and leaves you feeling more stressed and anxious. ...more
Self Improvement
May 14, 2020•3 min read
Being Real & Resilient In Uncertain Times
I asked busy leaders and professionals: "With everything going on in the world right now, when it comes to being your best at work and at home, what is your single biggest challenge or struggle?" ...more
Self Improvement
April 22, 2020•5 min read
This Is The Time When People Need Your Calm, Presence and Leadership The Most
Life is throwing a curveball, there’s no doubt about it. It’s hard to know exactly what to say or do right now. ...more
Self Improvement
March 19, 2020•7 min read
It Starts With You
Here’s a common question when it comes to slowing down, feeling less stressed and/or creating the change you want in your life . . . ...more
Self Improvement
December 14, 2019•7 min read
Hitting the Reset Button
A few years ago, I started doing something with my son Emmett when a disagreement would unintentionally snowball. Usually, it was when we were rushing out the door in the morning to get to daycare and... ...more
Self Improvement
December 06, 2019•4 min read
All The Worry Is Not Solving Your Problem; It IS The Problem!
This week I am feeling VERY behind. And it’s only Wednesday! Projects are taking longer than planned, I have a couple of big workshops that I need to put together, and random issues keep coming up th... ...more
Self Improvement
November 20, 2019•7 min read
"Being Busy" And Doing More Is Making You Less Productive
One of the biggest mistakes leaders make is thinking that “being busy” and doing more and more makes them productive and equals success. ...more
Self Improvement
November 14, 2019•6 min read
What Badge Do You Want To Wear?
You likely have a lot on your plate. Things are busy at work. And at home. You’re ambitious, driven and striving toward the next "thing" . ...more
Self Improvement
October 23, 2019•5 min read
10 Things You Might Miss About Your Corporate Career (And Can Appreciate More)
As a business owner now, one thing I’ll commonly hear in the entrepreneur community is that we “broke free from the chains of the 9-5 world” . . . not always that dramatic, but you get the point. ...more
Self Improvement
October 11, 2019•7 min read
When Other People Are Being Difficult
You might have the best intentions with your day to get something accomplished, be upbeat and calm, or support your team, but other people can derail your efforts, leaving you frustrated, impatient an... ...more
Self Improvement
September 12, 2019•6 min read
3 Ways To Re-Think Your Time
If you are like many busy professionals, you might be doing alright or ‘fine’, but feel a bit stuck in the grind, and like you’re ‘going, going, going’ . . . ...more
Self Improvement
September 12, 2019•6 min read
Keeping It Real . . . We All Have Bad Days
Ever find yourself having a day where you are so "off" – nothing seems to go right, you’re annoyed with everyone, you’re feeling down and no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to pull yourself ou... ...more
Self Improvement
August 21, 2019•7 min read
Feel Confidence On Demand (Especially When You're Doubting Yourself)
This past weekend we were at a big family golf tournament. For the first time, all the kids – from 6 to 14 years old – played too, even in the pouring rain! ...more
Self Improvement
August 13, 2019•9 min read
What Fills You Up? Make THAT A Priority
Rebecca thought she was “fine”. It was just busy life, after all, and she had no choice being so busy with her new demanding Director position. ...more
Self Improvement
August 05, 2019•6 min read
Overpower Your Fear of Failure
Feeling insecure? Guess what . . . so are most other people. Especially when it comes to a fear of failure. When you have a mile-long to-do list and you’re worried you will drop a ball and not get eve... ...more
Self Improvement
July 29, 2019•6 min read
What Important Is Left Unsaid When You’re Worrying What Others Think
What important is left unsaid when you’re worrying what others think? When you don’t speak up in a meeting because someone might think it’s a stupid idea. ...more
Self Improvement
July 22, 2019•5 min read
What If Everything You Have Was Gone Tomorrow?
What if everything you have today was gone tomorrow? Many people go about their day without truly appreciating or being grateful for what they do have right now. ...more
Self Improvement
July 16, 2019•4 min read
It's A Choice
Summer is my most favorite time of year and we spend most of our time at the lake in July and August (in fact, me and the kids move out there!) ...more
Self Improvement
June 24, 2019•2 min read
Three Of My Biggest Lessons To Avoid Burning Out And Enjoy Life Way More
Late May, I spoke at a Young Leaders retreat at Elkridge resort in Northern Saskatchewan. The location was quiet, peaceful and beautiful nestled in the forest. ...more
Self Improvement
June 11, 2019•6 min read
Focusing On The Positive Makes Your Day A Whole Lot Easier
Every coaching session or workshop or even a speaking event, I’ll ask the people in the room: “What’s a win?” No matter how big or how small. And, I’ll ask myself this question every single day, ESPE... ...more
Self Improvement
June 03, 2019•5 min read
What Does A Grocery Shopping Trip Have To Do With Leadership?
I used to be a control freak. Everything had to be to my high standards and my way of doing things – because it was the “right way” of course ...more
Self Improvement
May 26, 2019•8 min read
4 Simple Ways To Wrap Up The Year, Enjoy The Holiday Season & Start 2019 Off Strong!
As the year comes to an end, you might find yourself busier than ever, scrambling to get done project tasks at work, attending all the Christmas parties, and getting everything ready for the holidays ... ...more
Self Improvement
December 19, 2018•7 min read
5 Ways To Get Back On Track When You’ve Seriously Over-Committed Yourself
What do you do when you are so far in and feel like the crushing workload is impossible to get out of because of everything you already committed to do? ...more
Self Improvement
December 13, 2018•5 min read
Don’t Let Your Expectations Steal The Moment
I saw the movie “A Star Is Born” this weekend. I was captivated during the first half of the movie . . . it was incredible. ...more
Self Improvement
October 16, 2018•4 min read
4 Simple Ways To Tame Your Scattered Mind
If you follow me, you know I’m a huge believer in taking time to disconnect, whether you are on vacation or the weekends with your family or giving yourself some downtime in the evening. ...more
Self Improvement
October 01, 2018•6 min read
3 Ways To Slow Down When Everything Is Ramping Up
It’s THAT time of year again! The end-of-summer blues and back-to-school excitement. Your Facebook feed will be filled with all the pics of kids with their backpacks heading off for the first day. ...more
Self Improvement
September 04, 2018•5 min read
Overcome your inner obstacles
Do you take time to notice your thoughts and whether they are helping you or hindering you in the moment? We all have them – fears, worries, doubts, frustrations . . . ...more
Self Improvement
June 17, 2018•2 min read
Give your best work
A topic I speak on with companies is “Your Best Work” and how to create motivation within. When you shift your lens – your mindset and beliefs – you can create motivation from within to give your bes... ...more
Self Improvement
June 05, 2018•1 min read
What Gets Me Fired Up?
I had a phone call recently with my marketing coach (yes, coaches have coaches too, to help us get out of our own way and move to a new level!) ...more
Self Improvement
May 25, 2018•4 min read
You’ll Catch More Flies (and Sales!) with Honey
Do you feel overwhelmed with everything you have to do and it’s affecting your mood? Are you short on patience with people at work or at home? Do you have others around you who are frustrated with wha... ...more
Self Improvement
April 26, 2018•4 min read
Appreciate The Small Moments (You Don’t Get Them Back)
I can’t seem to shake this heavy feeling since the tragic Humboldt Broncos accident here in Saskatchewan. It’s so very sad. ...more
Self Improvement
April 17, 2018•3 min read
Go Ahead, Just Ask (Again)
Last week, our kids were off school for Easter break, and we headed to West Edmonton Mall for a short family getaway. ...more
Self Improvement
April 10, 2018•4 min read
How You Can Say No Gracefully
When demands for our time and attention – even opportunities – mount faster than our ability to keep up, feelings of control are often the first to go . . . especially when we try to tackle too much a... ...more
Self Improvement
April 03, 2018•4 min read
The One Thing You Can Do When Others Aren’t Being At Their Best
You might have the best of intentions to be focused on what’s important during the day and keep a positive attitude . . . . . . but what do you do when other people are constantly stealing your atten... ...more
Self Improvement
February 27, 2018•4 min read
What’s Your ONE Thing?
Are your days always full of meetings? And you have a constant barrage of email and demands on your time? Do you feel like you aren’t addressing what’s actually important or making real progress? ...more
Self Improvement
January 30, 2018•4 min read
Want To Be Home For Supper? Stop Being So Reactive With Your Time
Nothing is more deflating than being really busy, but feeling like you are not making any progress. You might be giving it your all, yet work is seeping into your personal time, projects are taking fo... ...more
Self Improvement
January 26, 2018•7 min read
Forget Glass “Half-Full” or “Half-Empty”. Use A Pitcher.
Resilience is a crucial skill in times of constant change and uncertainty. It’s your ability to quickly bounce back from setbacks and challenges, and getting yourself in a better frame of mind so you... ...more
Self Improvement
January 23, 2018•4 min read
Finding Perspective (No Funeral Required)
Open-mindedness is one of my values. For me, that means embracing that any given situation can be seen from a variety of perspectives – not just the one viewpoint that you happen to be taking at that... ...more
Self Improvement
January 18, 2018•5 min read
Family + Achievement
Family is one of my core values. It’s my one thing – the most important thing – and if I am giving the right attention, time and my very best self to my husband and kids, everything else becomes easie... ...more
Self Improvement
January 18, 2018•6 min read
How About Being More Kind to Yourself?
When we are positive, our brains are more engaged, productive, energetic and resilient at work and in our personal lives – this has been rigorously researched in psychology and neuroscience. ...more
Self Improvement
December 07, 2017•5 min read
The Key Ingredient To Making Those Harder Choices (For An Easier Life)
I’ve talked about self-doubt and how your values are (or aren’t showing up) and how both these areas can play a significant role in how you show up as a leader, role-model, parent, etc. ...more
Self Improvement
November 13, 2017•6 min read
How Your Values are (or aren’t) Showing Up
Here’s part two in my three part series on how to be the best version of yourself at work. The first part was on what everybody ought to know about self-doubt and how to take action in spite of your d... ...more
Self Improvement
November 10, 2017•2 min read
What Everybody Ought to Know About Self-Doubt
Have you felt a ball in your stomach when you want to speak up in an important meeting and the voice in your head is asking: “Is what I have to say really that important?”, “Will I sound smart?” or “W... ...more
Self Improvement
November 08, 2017•4 min read
3 Ways To Be A Stronger Leader Right Now
Whether you are a formal or informal leader, CEO or someone just starting out in your career, there are always tweaks you can make to show up in an even stronger way, and it is important to always be ... ...more
Self Improvement
November 01, 2017•5 min read
How Stress Can Fuel Your Performance (Instead of Slowing You Down)
And a certain amount of stress is inevitable with demanding workloads, balancing work and personal time, dealing with a difficult boss or colleague, or the pressure and self-doubt that can creep up wh... ...more
Self Improvement
October 24, 2017•3 min read
3 Ways to Quickly Bounce Back From a Setback
A moderate amount of stress is a good thing, as it can help motivate us to take action. But when stress or anxiety gets to be too much, it undercuts our performance and slows us down, beside the fact ... ...more
Self Improvement
October 20, 2017•6 min read
The Biggest Challenges With Stress At Work and The Most Important Thing To Do
Workplace stress is a common theme these days. And, with all the expectations in our days between our work and personal life, it’s easy to let the stress take over. It doesn’t have to be this way thou... ...more
Self Improvement
September 19, 2017•6 min read
How Positivity and Resilience Make a Real Difference in Your Work
Ever experience the struggle where your boss just doesn’t understand where you are coming from? Or your employee just doesn’t seem to “get it” and spends his or her time complaining rather than coming... ...more
Self Improvement
May 31, 2017•5 min read
How to Speak Up at Work!
Watch this short video and get ideas for action to be more effective in your role. ...more
Self Improvement
May 04, 2017•1 min read
Positivity is a Game Changer
Early in my corporate career, I thought my greatest strength was my ability to hone in on problems, issues, and “what’s wrong?” when a new idea or project was presented. ...more
Self Improvement
March 23, 2017•5 min read
6 Reasons Why You Should Disconnect While on Vacation
While smartphones are great for taking photos, researching what restaurants to visit or adventures to explore while on vacation, they can also keep you connected to the daily stressors and responsibil... ...more
Self Improvement
March 09, 2017•4 min read
Decision Is Not Action. How To Make Things Happen.
Something that gets in the way of people’s forward movement on goals, projects, and tasks is not taking ACTION . . . whatever that action may be. It sounds simple, but often people leave a meeting or ... ...more
Self Improvement
February 14, 2017•3 min read
The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work by Shawn Achor
I highly recommend reading The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor. It is a well-written, practical book with simple, actionable ways to apply each of the seven principles (outlined below) to improve y... ...more
Self Improvement
January 27, 2017•2 min read
Work-Life Balance – What Does It Even Mean?
The phrase “work-life balance” is a funny notion. After all, work is a part of your life, as are family, relationships, personal interests, giving back to others and your health. ...more
Click Here For My First Blog Post
January 24, 2017•9 min read
Confidently and Firmly Decide
What if you confidently and firmly decided to make the change you’ve been wanting to make? let's dive into confidently and firmly deciding to make a change! It’s been just over a year since I quit dri... ...more
Calm Your Mind
October 16, 2024•3 min read
Be Present for the Moments That Matter
Being present is my number one value and something I’m intentional about every. single. day. Sometimes, this means being there for the moments that truly matter most—like when my mom suddenly passed a... ...more
Calm Your Mind
October 07, 2024•4 min read
Do Less to Accomplish More
Are you tired of just getting by each day and feeling discouraged that no matter how much you do, you seem to be falling further behind? When you have too many 'must-dos' and it feels like you're cons... ...more
Balance
September 24, 2024•4 min read
Really, It’s Okay to Say No
As summer fades and fall approaches, I'm reassessing my boundaries and priorities—both at work and personally. This ALWAYS involves saying 'no' more. No to what no longer serves me (even if it's somet... ...more
Balance
August 29, 2024•3 min read
Ditch the ‘Shoulds’
What if you kept it simple and ditched the ‘shoulds’? Last night, I went to a movie by myself. I’m only in the city for a couple of nights (I live at the lake in the summer), and it was a movie I real... ...more
Self Improvement
August 27, 2024•2 min read
The Mental Load You Carry
Ever feel like the mental load is weighing you down? You’re not alone! You can have the best boundaries in the world, but if you still have a busy mind, you won’t feel balanced. In this short video, I... ...more
Balance ,Self Improvement
August 22, 2024•1 min read
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