I hope your week has got off to a great start.

Last week, we ventured into the fascinating concept of; “Our Vital Force” when we face our fears and find this surge of energy that charges us to move ahead. If you missed it, you can see this and all of my previous blogs below.

In the bustling world of work and business, communication is the linchpin holding everything together isn’t it! Whether it’s sealing a deal, collaborating on a project, or simply exchanging ideas, effective communication is the key to success.

Yet, there’s an all-too-common communication issue that often flies under the radar: vagueness.

In this thought for the week, we’ll explore why vagueness ranks among the top ten communication issues in business and how speaking concisely and with more precision can pave the way for clearer and more actionable communication.

Of course, we still want to be our natural selves in our conversations. At the same time, we just may not realise when we are being vague about what we want to say or ask.

Imagine this scenario: A manager gathers their team and poses the question, “Should we change our protocol when it comes to contacting customers?” On the surface, it seems like a reasonable inquiry. However, what typically follows? More often than not, nothing substantial transpires. The reason is simple – the question is too vague to prompt actionable responses.

In this case, the manager’s intentions may be sincere, but the question lacks the specificity required to initiate meaningful change. It’s a common pitfall in business communication. Sometimes, the problem isn’t a lack of communication, but rather the way a question or statement is delivered.

So, how can we address this issue effectively?

By making our requests more actionable. What do I mean by that?

Well, instead of asking a broad question like, “Should we change our protocol?” we could rephrase it to, “What are three ways we could change our protocol today?”

Yes, the first question is a closed one that invites a simple yes or no answer. Whereas the second question will, of course, invite ideas and will be more productive.

Even when people are aware of open and closed questions, they can still easily slip into vagueness by asking closed ones.

Here’s why this shift in approach is so important:

• It encourages productive dialogue
• It Fosters innovation
• It defines expectations
• It gives accountability, follow-through and makes it easier to track progress.

You will have encountered vagueness yourself and, in business, communication is a prevalent issue that often goes unnoticed. It can hinder productivity, stifle innovation, and lead to misunderstandings.

However, by recognising the power of precision and making requests more actionable, businesses can unlock the full potential of their teams and drive meaningful change.

And this applies in all areas of our lives too doesn’t it! Like when we’re talking to friends and family, in sport, when we need to get something repaired at home etc.

So, the next time you find yourself asking a vague question, remember that clarity and specificity are the keys to fostering clear and actionable communication in business and in life.

“Know what you want. Clarity is power.

And vague goals promote vague results”.

-Robin Sharma-

[Robin Sharma is a Canadian writer, best known for his ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’ book series.]

Curious to learn more about how I can help you to improve communication in your life and / or your business?  Book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me HERE.

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

I hope your week has got off to a great start.

Last week, we ventured into the fascinating concept of; “From Fear to Freedom” and how, if we can embrace fear, we can experience new opportunities and possibilities that we would otherwise have missed out on. If you missed it, you can see this and all of my previous blogs below.

“Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know from my own life that the more I exercise it the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me.”

-Arianna Huffington-

And, whilst this is a key piece in the puzzle towards mastering our communication skills, we know that there are many other pieces in this mysterious journey!

I mentioned last week about the energy we get when we conquer our fears. I also previously told you how I conquered my fear of public speaking and how I am now doing the work I do, speaking in public all the time! I still feel the energy from overcoming that fear!

Another time I conquered a fear was many years ago when I discovered I was claustrophobic while pot holing in the Peak District. I was on this leadership outward bound trip as part of my training back then and you may have been on something similar yourself?

Well, the bit I was most afraid of before I went was the abseiling and yes, I was afraid and yet, with the encouragement of the team, I did it! I felt so proud and thought I had nailed this activity weekend, until it came to the pot holing!

Of course, I had never done it before and I didn’t know how narrow those passageways would be. I also hadn’t factored in the spider webs along the way! I felt panic arise and yet I didn’t know how to go backwards. Because my team members were at the other end encouraging me, I got through it – I suddenly got this surge of energy that I didn’t know I had and suddenly I was at the light at the end of the tunnel and out of there!

This is why these outward-bound activities are so powerful in team-building events. Can you think of an experience you have had like that?

And energy is so much more than how much of it we get from what we eat for breakfast or lunch! It’s this intangible force that all successful professionals are familiar with, it’s like light and air to us!

“Enthusiasm is the yeast that makes your hopes shine to the stars. Enthusiasm is the sparkle in your eyes, the swing in your gait. The grip of your hand, the irresistible surge of will and energy to execute your ideas”.

–Henry Ford–

Curious to learn more about yourself in a safe and confidential environment?? Let’s explore together. Book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me HERE.

Also, I still have a space available on the next Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starting on Oct 19^th if you (or someone you know) would like to join us on this journey? (I limit this to a maximum of 8 people at a time).

Find out more here: Communication Code

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

I hope you are having a great week so far.

Last week, we delved into the intriguing topic of “Fear’s Hidden Gifts” and explored how embracing fear can be a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. We uncovered the paradox of fearing fear itself and how it can propel us out of our comfort zones, steering us towards uncharted territories.

If you missed it, you can see this and all of my previous blogs below.

But what if I told you that fear, while a powerful force for change, is just one piece of the puzzle in our journey toward becoming effective communicators?

This week, I’d like to introduce you to a concept that builds upon our exploration of fear, creating curiosity about what lies ahead – the Fear Factor gives us a glimpse of what’s to come!

While fear undoubtedly holds its hidden gifts, we’ll soon discover that it’s only the beginning of a fascinating journey. We will shed light on how we can, not only conquer our fears, but also harness the energy they provide. It’s a journey that goes beyond fear, focusing on the transformative power of effective communication.

Picture this: Unlocking the ability to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and impact. Imagine the doors this can open for people in their personal and professional life …

• What new opportunities might arise?
• How might your / their relationships evolve?
• How would your / their career prospects change?
• How much more effective will you / they be within the organisation?

In The Communication Code Group Coaching Programme for professionals, we explore practical strategies, insights, and techniques that empower people to master the art of communication. It’s a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and the realisation of your full potential as a communicator.

Check it out here: https://communicationcode.co.uk/

So, whatever is holding someone back, the ‘Fear Factor’ is just the beginning. If embraced, what follows promises to be a transformational exploration of communication and its boundless possibilities.

Curious about how to master your own communication? Let’s explore together. Book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me HERE.

You possess the potential to achieve anything you want and now is the moment to reveal your inner wisdom without delay!

As Nelson Mandela wisely said …

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure”

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you are having a productive week so far.

Last week’s thought was; “Rewriting Your Narrative” about challenging the conditioning that doesn’t serve us well and rewrite our narrative with empowered perspectives. If you missed it, you can see this and all of my previous blogs below.

When I work with clients and we explore what is holding them back from their hopes / goals / dreams, so often it boils down to fear.

Fear is what can hold us back from embracing new opportunities, making changes, and pursuing growth.

Of course, fear is a natural part of the human experience and in-built for a very good reason; to keep us safe. Like the Stress response – fight or flight, it is part of our biology as humans.

Just like embracing and learning from the stumbling blocks on our journey, how can we learn to reframe fear as a catalyst for transformation and advancement?

Last week, I gave the quote from Marianne Williamson, which you may have heard before – sometimes we can be afraid of our own success and the potential perceived consequences of that.

We encounter different types of fear, from the fear of failure to fear of the unknown. How much do you think these fears might be rooted in conditioning?

Similar to stumbling blocks, fear can either paralyse us or push us forward. In my experience, fear can be a powerful driving force when harnessed correctly. Shifting our perspective on fear can help us see it as one of our stepping stones on our journey towards personal and professional growth.

If you can relate to this, here’s a question …

How you can break free from the paradox of fearing fear itself, and instead, leverage fear to propel yourself out of your comfort zone and towards uncharted territories?

Now this may seem bizarre; in certain cases, fear can actually present itself as a hidden gift. If a lion is running towards you, you may not see fear as a gift! And yet it’s that fear that warns you, pumps blood and adrenaline and noradrenaline around your body powering you up to run for cover!

In everyday life, how can we break free from the paradox of fearing fear itself, and instead, leverage fear to propel ourselves out of our comfort zone and towards uncharted territories?

In actual fact, fear often indicates areas where we should be paying attention, highlighting areas where growth and change are possible and necessary. We can embrace fear through personal strategies, such as practicing mindfulness, looking for the opportunities that may not be obvious, setting incremental goals, seeking support, and embracing a growth mindset.

Our conditioning often resists change, but it’s through change that we find new avenues for growth and fulfilment. So, if we can connect the concept of embracing fear with the idea of embracing change, we can gain extraordinary success.

“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face!”

-Eleanor Roosevelt-

Curious about how to navigate this path embracing fear? Let’s explore together. Book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me HERE.

You are capable of achieving remarkable things, and it’s time to unveil your inner warrior and recognise that – without hesitation.

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you are having a great week so far.

Last week’s thought was; “Stumbling Blocks or Stepping Stones?” about how we can master our challenges and achieve our aspirations and be kind to ourselves because we will stumble along the way. If you missed it, you can see this and all of my previous blogs below.

In my previous emails, we’ve explored how we communicate, the things that hold us back, our learning journey, tapping into the wisdom of childhood lessons, and celebrating the process of growth.

On our journey through life, we encounter not only the external challenges but also the internal hurdles that come from conditioning. Conditioning that doesn’t necessarily serve us well, but rather, holds us back from embracing our unconditioned greatness. One such example is the conditioning that leads us to believe that pride in ourselves is synonymous with arrogance.

Reflect for a moment; How many times have you dimmed your own light, down-played your accomplishments, or hesitated to express your true strengths for fear of being perceived as conceited?

This is a classic instance of conditioning at play. We’ve been programmed to think that pride equates to arrogance, when in fact, it’s a vital aspect of recognising and celebrating our achievements.

Just as we cheer on a child taking those first uncertain steps, we should uplift ourselves with the same enthusiasm when we achieve milestones and conquer challenges. Celebrating your accomplishments isn’t about boasting; it’s about acknowledging the hard work, dedication, and growth that got you there. It’s a testament to your resilience and determination.

So, let’s un–condition ourselves from this self-limiting belief. Give yourself permission to embrace your achievements with grace, and let pride be a driving force towards your continued growth. Remember, you are on a journey of discovery, and every step you take, every hurdle you overcome, brings you closer to your unconditioned greatness. And help and encourage others to do the same.

As we move forward, let’s challenge the conditioning that doesn’t serve us well and rewrite our narrative with empowered perspectives. Join me on this journey of self-discovery, where we shed the layers that no longer resonate and step into our authentic power.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure”

-Marianne Williamson-

[American author, speaker, and presidential candidate]

Curious about how to navigate this path of un-conditioning and self-empowerment? Let’s explore together. Book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me HERE and let’s uncover the hidden gems within you.

Stay tuned for more insights and tips as we journey together towards unconditioned greatness. You are capable of achieving remarkable things, and it’s time to recognise that without hesitation.

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you are having a great week so far.

Last week’s thought was; “Our Learning Journey” about how we learn and the stages we go through before we master things along the way. You can see this and all of my previous blogs below

I mentioned about when we learn to ride a bike, drive a car and I also briefly mentioned when we learn to walk.

Well, this week I have been reflecting on a concept that I believe holds valuable insights for all of us, particularly when it comes to our own personal growth and learning. It’s centred around the way we learn to walk and talk, and how we can apply those lessons to our adult lives.

Think about the remarkable journey of a child learning to walk. When they take their first wobbly steps, we don’t scold them if they fall over. Instead, we cheer them on, encourage them to get up, and applaud their efforts. We understand that stumbling is part of the process, and we know that with each fall, they’re getting closer to their goal.

As adults then, why is it that we often treat ourselves differently? When we encounter setbacks or stumble in our own learning journeys, we can be incredibly hard on ourselves. We might berate ourselves for not getting it right the first time or feel disheartened when we hit a roadblock. But what if we approached our own learning with the same compassion and patience that we show to a child learning to walk?

We know this; every time we face a challenge, make a mistake, or stumble in our efforts, we’re simply taking a step toward our goal. Just like that child who falls but keeps getting back up, we too are making progress. Every setback is a chance to learn, to adjust our approach, and to become stronger and more resilient.

There’s a reason we don’t punish a child who falls while learning to walk – because we know that falling is an integral part of the learning process. Similarly, the setbacks we encounter as adults are essential components of our own learning journeys.

So, let’s be kinder to ourselves. Let’s acknowledge that stumbling and falling are natural and necessary steps toward growth. Let’s remind ourselves that every time we “fall,” we’re actually inching closer to our goals.

Just like that child who eventually transitions from wobbly steps to confident running, we too can master our challenges and achieve our aspirations. The key is to embrace the process, offer ourselves the same encouragement we’d offer a child, and keep pushing forward.

As you navigate your own learning journey, remember that setbacks don’t define you – your resilience and determination do. Keep taking those steps, keep learning, and keep growing. You’re on the path to something incredible.

“You don’t learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over”

-Richard Branson-

So, learning is a discovery …

If you, or someone you know, would like to explore this with me, why not book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me? I can confidently guarantee that you will leave this call with more clarity and insight.

I’ll be in touch again soon with more thoughts and tips!

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you are having a great week so far.

Last week’s thought was; “Your Inner Animal Wisdom” about how we can learn more about ourselves by thinking of an animal whose characteristics are most like our own. You can see this and all of my previous blogs HERE.

If you did the exercise I mentioned, I’d love to know how you got on, so drop me a line!

Leading on from last week’s thought, what other situations have come about where you have learned more about yourself and your own communication style?

The thing is; these days we are so busy aren’t we that we can miss the opportunity, so it passes us by unnoticed. It’s only when we have to stop in our tracks and take note that we have the chance to pick up on it!

Some may keep a journal or make notes in other ways. Personally, I have learned to make a mental note and store anything important digitally. I also write my weekly blog after processing things that have come up over the week.

When I run courses and talk about how we learn, I often use the metaphor of learning to drive or ride a bike. At the beginning, we thought it was easy, for instance watching our parents driving when we were a kid, it looked so easy didn’t it?

That stage of learning is called “Unconscious Incompetence”. That doesn’t sound very flattering does it, but it is of course a psychological term! Simply put; We don’t know what we don’t know.

Then when we get on a bike for the first time, or have our first driving lesson, we realise there is so much more to this thing! (“Conscious Incompetence”), we realise that we don’t know how to do it. We concentrate on every little stage, starting up, changing gears, highway code and all that.

Then when we start getting the hang of it, this is called “Conscious Competence” – we know what to do now and that we can do it. And this stage is critical. Why?

Because it’s only through repetition and practice that we really instil this knowledge onto our consciousness, so it then permeates into our sub-conscience and becomes automatic. Like when we learned to walk.

So, when we’re driving and have reached that last stage, we realise that sometimes we have travelled from A to B and don’t remember the journey, or changing gear etc. because the whole thing has become so automatic! I’m sure you can relate to that!

This whole process is called “The Learning Journey”.

“The more you learn, the more you realise how much you don’t know”

-Aristotle-

So, learning how to communicate is no different. We have learned to communicate the way we do now and how’s that working for you?

If you, or someone you know, would like to explore this with me, why not book a Complimentary Communication Mastery Call with me? I can confidently guarantee that you will leave this call with more clarity and insight.

I’ll be in touch again soon with more thoughts and tips!

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you have had a great week.

Last week’s thought was; “Words that Transcend Space and Time” about how the concept of legacy stands as a testament to the enduring impact of human communication. Catch up on all my blogs below.

Stay tuned for more tips. Here’s to your thriving success!

Warmest wishes,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you have been having a great week!

Last week’s thought was; “My Father’s Gifts” about my Dad’s story and legacy. You can see this and all of my previous blogs HERE.

And “Legacy” is so important isn’t it because it creates this chain reaction, this ripple effect throughout our lives, other peoples’ lives and through the generations.

In the vast expanse of time, the concept of legacy stands as a testament to the enduring impact of human communication. Our words and actions create a chain reaction, setting forth a ripple effect that extends far beyond our individual lives. The legacy we leave behind is not just a relic of the past but a profound force shaping the lives of others in the present and the generations yet to come.

In this week’s thought, we explore how the significance of legacy in communication shapes the tapestry of our interconnected human experience.

1. Echoes Through Time: As we engage in communication, whether through spoken words, written texts, or digital expressions, we etch our thoughts into the fabric of history. These messages resonate across generations, crossing boundaries of time and space, imparting wisdom, values, and knowledge to those who come after us. The wisdom of our ancestors continues to guide and inspire, underscoring the importance of our own contributions to the ongoing dialogue.

2. The Power of Inspiration: Legacy amplifies the power of inspiration. The remarkable achievements and courageous words of past leaders, artists, and visionaries have the ability to motivate and uplift us. By sharing their stories, we fuel the dreams of others and encourage them to pursue their passions fearlessly. The spark of inspiration kindled by communication transcends barriers, empowering countless individuals to bring positive change to the World.

3. Learning from Mistakes: Communication is a two-way street, allowing us not only to share successes but also to acknowledge and learn from our mistakes. The lessons of the past can act as a compass, guiding us away from repeating errors and charting a course towards progress and enlightenment. By acknowledging and discussing past missteps, we pave the way for growth and transformation, ensuring a brighter future for all.

4. Strengthening Bonds: Legacy enriches our interpersonal relationships. The stories of our ancestors, passed down through generations, weave a common thread that binds families and communities together. By nurturing open and compassionate communication, we foster a deeper understanding of our shared heritage, values, and aspirations. Through this connection, we create a sense of belonging that transcends time and unites us in a grand tapestry of humanity.

5. Empowering Future Generations: Just as we inherit the legacy of the past, we have a responsibility to shape the legacy we leave for the future. Our words and actions, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can set in motion profound changes that reverberate through time. By communicating with purpose and intention, we empower future generations to build upon our foundation and carry forward the torch of progress and compassion.

You will remember the leader that you most admire, whether it was a boss, a colleague, a teacher, professor, parent, grandparent or whoever that was. They left a legacy with you and probably without even realising it.

And that’s why it’s so important for us to master the Art of Communication.

“The Art of Communication is the language of Leadership”

-James Humes-

[Inspired by Winston Churchill, he went on to craft speeches for Presidents, was a highly-accredited author and, along with William Safire and Pat Buchanan, is credited for authoring the text on the Apollo 11 Lunar plaque]

How’s that for leaving a legacy that was inspired by another true legend!

If you, or someone you know, would like to explore this with me, why not book a Complimentary Communication Mastery Call with me? ? I can confidently guarantee that you will leave this call with more clarity and insight.

I’ll be in touch again soon with more thoughts and tips!

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S.  The next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.

I hope you have been having a great week!

Last week’s thought was; “Human Intellect vs AI – How Human Imagination is Shaping New Realities”. You can see this and all of my previous blogs below.

I mentioned how we learn and I’d like to share something my Dad taught me that I’m eternally grateful for …

My Dad is a great storyteller and told me the most wonderful stories when I was small – my favourite was about a flying carpet and we went all over the place … in our imaginations!

But the most profound story for me is the story of his life …

He was an orphan and never knew what it was like to grow up as part of a family as many of us have. Living in Guernsey, at the age of 8-years-old, he was evacuated to Scotland as the German invasion of the Channel Islands was imminent. When he reached Glasgow, while a lot of his fellow evacuees (not all) had positive experiences with the families who took them in, sadly he didn’t. (I always feel emotional when I tell people about this).

He was taken in by people who lived on a farm, he had to stand up for one meal a day, eating alone and having to carry out tasks on the farm. My Dad is not tall and as a smaller boy who was seen as ‘a foreigner’ he was expected to fight with the other boys at school to prove himself.

As if his life hadn’t been hard enough up to that point, he had to learn to fend for himself while trying to get an education. At the end of the war, the people who took him in wanted to adopt him, but he could not wait to get out of there and back to Guernsey, as you can imagine!

While he had been away, his children’s home had been closed by the Germans and nobody was expecting him. So, sadly, when he arrived back on the boat at the age of 13, he was the last boy standing. (Despite all his experiences, he never lost faith). So, he went to the police station and asked for help and they found him lodgings and a job. He was selling newspapers on the streets of St Peter Port, and with the broad Glaswegian accent he had picked up, he was given the nickname “Scotty”!

Now, my Dad has this fighting spirit (which has probably saved him many times) and when he puts his mind to anything, he does brilliantly well. He was earning more money selling papers than the guys who were printing them! But he wanted a career and took the opportunity to train as a printer. He hadn’t had a proper education and pretty much had to teach himself how to put the printing block letters together, and he succeeded.

He did well and the Company sent him to Trade Fairs. One day, he came back inspired by a new printing technology called “Lithoprint” (the latest thing at the time) and tried to persuade his employer to look into this. They didn’t take this seriously, so what did my Dad do?

He started his own printing Company called “Paramount Lithoprint” and became a very successful and respected businessman and publisher!

So, my Dad’s story never fails to blow me away. He is now almost 92 years old and happily still with us. He has taught me this …

“Never underestimate what you’re capable of and where there’s a will there’s a way”

-George Raymond Le Page-

And here I am, proudly following in his footsteps and legacy.

I’ll be in touch again soon with more thoughts and tips!

With best wishes for your success,

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!

P.S. If you, or someone you know, would like to explore this with me, why not book a Complimentary Communication Mastery Call with me? ? I can confidently guarantee that you will leave this call with more clarity and insight.

P.P.S: Also, the next available Communication Code Group Coaching Programme starts on the 19th October! Check it out.