Home » The Happiness Blog

Be Kind, Not Nice

I recently received a bit of wisdom from a colleague of mine, and it was very important in a conversation I had today with a client, so I”m passing on to you. First, an important distinction between being NICE and being KIND Nice is about what the other person is thinking and feeling–it’s their perception … Read more

13 Principles of Happiness

Download your 13 Principles of Happiness – suitable for framing – click here (  ~113k) 1. Become Positively Self-ish When you take care of yourself first, you build a foundation for stronger relationships with others, increase your capacity, and reduce doubt. 2. Live Your Values Clearly identify and proclaim your personal values through the way you live and … Read more

You always have the Power to Change YOU

Do you have things or situations in your life that cause you to go, “ugh!”? I call them Tolerations — things you “put up with” in your life. Because they are often small and invisible, they create stress without your awareness; they drain your energy. Happiness Principle #6 reads: Tolerate Nothing. Continually identify and eliminate … Read more

Don't Use these Four Dirty Words at Work!

Here are four words that you should not tolerate in the workplace: FAKE – this is toxic for a leader.  If you do not show up in an Authentic way, people will sense it.  Be genuine. FEAR – when we are uncomfortable, we tend to withdraw.  Leaders must step into the DIScomfort of difficult conversations, … Read more

Apply the Learning of the Masters to your Goals

When I entered the rotunda of the Galleria dell’Accademie in Firenze (Florence) for my first live look at this Italian icon, it literally took my breath away. 17 feet tall, sleek and powerful, Michelangelo’s David is truly a marvel — accurate down to the veins on the back of his hands and the chipped toenails … Read more

What are you planting for your future?

I recently took inspiration from a retelling of this story, which speaks to the power of Integrity. The Emperor and The Seed (unattributed) Once there was an emperor in the Far East who was growing old and knew it was coming time to choose his successor. Instead of choosing one of his assistants or one … Read more

14 Life Lessons from a Trip to Italy

Immersion in a foreign culture refreshes the way I view the world. First, the “different-ness” of life in another country or region opens up new awareness; then, my newly expanded lens causes me to review habits and beliefs that were previously “invisible” to me. Through the lens of learning, I share with you my most powerful life lessons from my family’s recent trip to Italy:

+ More