By Barb Ward How many times have you heard the phrase, “Oh lighten up,” or “Laugh a little?” Humor through laughter, light-heartedness, and humility is powerful. When you laugh, your body creates a chemical response which releases endorphins that, in turn, relieve stress and pain. These endorphins trigger positive feelings and emotions. And let’s face […]
By Barb Ward What does it really mean to put other people first? In today’s highly digital environment, this seemingly simple action has become increasingly difficult, and sadly, increasingly rare. Thinking of other’s first sometimes requires intentional thought and action. It requires you to be fully conscious and present and to show you have genuine […]
By Barb Ward What would the world look like if we all took the advice to put other people first? Your co-workers, your family, your friends? Focusing on others before yourself puts you into a different mindset, allows you to be more flexible, and creates opportunities both personally and professionally. Personally, putting others […]
By Mystie Johnson-Foote, MD, MBA My aunt died last night. In the days leading up to her death, the family connected a lot. We talked to her and each other about life. My husband woke early one of these days with thoughts of my aunt and mortality. As we chatted about his thoughts he shared […]
By Barb Ward Everywhere you look, people are on their phones: in restaurants, cars, airplanes, walking down the street. Often, they are with other people, families, co-workers, or on dates. And not one of them is talking or listening to the people they are with. They are missing out on being present in the moment… […]
By Barb Ward It is devastating when you are betrayed by someone you thought you could trust. Unfortunately, no one is immune to these situations. As a result of your experiences, you may have consciously, or unconsciously, built defense mechanisms that make it difficult for you to trust again. What’s more, though you may not […]
By Barb Ward Trust. It is the foundation of every relationship – personally and professionally. It is not only the measure of the quality of the relationship between individuals, groups, teams, and organizations, it defines how you are perceived by others and how you feel about yourself. The trust you build with others is based […]
In October, Innovative Connections will celebrate 14 years in business. As we started in 2008, businesses were struggling through the Great Recession. As we move through 2021, the changes resulting from COVID shine a new light on what it means to be successful through external change and transitions. We continue to be proud of our partnerships […]
By Barb Ward We all experience roadblocks, or times when we are stagnant and unable to move forward. Sometimes it’s physical – for instance, health issues, lagging energy levels, or insomnia may be holding you back. Other times its emotional – mental fatigue or exhaustion, lack of motivation, doubt, or lack of confidence in your […]
By Laurie Cure With spring coming to a close and summer ready to blossom, I am reminded in my work and life of the deep need to respect the timing of events. Farmers and gardeners know that you cannot bring a seed to life prematurely. It requires time, space, nurturing, and patience. We water the […]
