Thought for the Week – The Questions We Forget to Ask

unanswered-questionsLast week’s Thought for the Week was “Is being ‘Good at Communicating’ holding you back. If you missed it, you can catch up here

This week, let’s explore a related question:

What assumptions are you bringing into your conversations?

Perhaps this hasn’t come up for you, so you don’t see this as an issue.

In any case, can you think about the last time a conversation didn’t go as planned …

Often, miscommunication stems not from what was said, but from the assumptions we made – about someone’s intentions, priorities, or even their understanding of what was discussed.

Here’s the challenge: Assumptions are invisible until we pause to question them.

In this conversation you just thought about, consider this:

  • Did you assume that the other person saw the situation the way you do?
  • Did you assume that they wanted the same outcome?
  • Or maybe you assumed that they already understand your perspective?

What would have happened if, instead of assuming, you had asked more questions?

This week, what would happen if you started with:

“What’s your perspective on this?”

It’s amazing how often clarity and connection emerge when we replace assumptions with curiosity and the quality of our conversations depends on the quality of our questions.

“Ask more than you assume. Curiosity creates bridges; assumptions create walls.”

– Unknown –

What’s one assumption you’ve challenged recently that changed the direction of a conversation? I’d love to hear your story.

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – Is being “Good at Communicating” holding you back?

listening-to-respond-or-understandLast week’s Thought for the Week was “What has “Accompaniment” Got to Do with Anything?” – the art of being present, listening deeply, and empowering those we lead. If you missed it, you can catch up here

Have you ever been told you’re a great communicator because you’re always clear, articulate, and confident?

But then… something doesn’t quite land. A message gets misunderstood, or someone reacts in a way you didn’t expect.

Here’s the question: Could what makes you feel like an effective communicator actually be causing disconnection?

What do I mean by this?

Well, we often think communication is about saying the right things in the right way. But here’s a thought: Are you listening to respond, or are you listening to understand?

True connection doesn’t come from how clearly we speak – it comes from how deeply the other person feels heard.

This week, I invite you to pause and ask yourself: Am I communicating for clarity, or am I communicating for connection?

Spoiler: they’re not always the same!

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

– George Bernard Shaw –

It would be great to hear from you about one moment recently where you felt your communication didn’t land the way you hoped?

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – What has “Accompaniment” Got to Do with Anything?

AccompanimentLast week’s Thought for the Week was “Transforming Purpose into Action” and, while purpose answers the question of ‘why’, intention answers the question of ‘how’ – how we show up, interact, and bring our values to each moment. If you missed it, you can catch up here

Great leaders know that communication is more than delivering services or sharing expertise – it’s about walking alongside others. Accompaniment is the art of being present, listening deeply, and empowering those we lead.

Accompaniment is a way of leading that empowers others by walking beside them, not ahead of them. It’s about listening, adapting, and creating space for others to grow on their terms.

When we accompany someone, we practice patience, allowing relationships and ideas to grow naturally. We foster trust by tuning into their rhythm, meeting them where they are. It’s not about control but about creating a space where they feel supported and empowered to shine.

Accompaniment strengthens empathy, builds connection, and inspires others to bring their best selves to the table. This week, consider: How can you show up, not just to lead but to listen and empower? 

Accompaniment Fosters Empathy

True communication in leadership is rooted in empathy and empathy really is a superpower!

When we practice accompaniment, we listen not just to respond but to understand. This requires patience – a willingness to let relationships, trust, and insights develop naturally.

Empathy through accompaniment means tuning into others’ rhythms and moods, observing their strengths, and appreciating their dignity. It’s about letting people feel seen and respected as they are, without rushing to change or fix them.

Imagine Walking Together

Picture walking alongside someone on a beach. You’re not leading or following – you’re moving in rhythm, sharing the sights, sounds, and stillness of the experience. In that moment, you’re connected without the need for words, building trust and understanding in the simplicity of being together.

Connection and Leadership, too, are about creating those moments of shared experience where both individuals feel valued and understood.

Empowerment Through Presence

Leadership isn’t about controlling outcomes but empowering others to discover their own paths. Like a pianist accompanying a singer, leaders who practice accompaniment focus on amplifying others’ strengths. They recognise that people need autonomy to feel truly engaged and invested in their work.

This approach builds trust. When you honour someone’s individuality and give them space to grow, you create an environment where they feel safe to share ideas, make mistakes, and innovate.

Patience, Playfulness, and Connection

Accompaniment also thrives on playfulness – the ability to connect through shared moments of joy and creativity. Whether it’s brainstorming in a meeting or tackling a challenge as a team, play breaks down barriers and fosters genuine collaboration. Laughter and spontaneity often reveal more about a person’s character than formal discussions ever could.

The Power of Presence

Finally, accompaniment is about showing up – especially during challenges. Leadership presence means being there not just to solve problems but to witness, listen, and support. As poet David Whyte observed, “The ultimate touchstone of friendship is witness … the privilege of having been seen by someone.”

Leading With Accompaniment

In leadership, accompaniment isn’t a passive role; it’s an active commitment to empathy, trust, and empowerment. By being present, patient, and playful, we create relationships and teams that thrive.

 

“Leadership is not about directing the orchestra; sometimes it’s about playing alongside and letting others shine.”

– Max Lucado –  

[Best-selling author who, in his own words, “writes books for people who don’t read books.”]

 

This week, I invite you to practice accompaniment in your interactions. Whether through a conversation, a shared task, or simply being present, focus on the connection. By walking alongside others, both literally and figuratively, we create trust, understanding, and shared strength for the journey ahead.

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – Transforming Purpose into Action

transform-purpose-into-actionLast week’s Thought for the Week was “Say it While You Can” and how often do we truly express our gratitude and appreciation for those we cherish. If you missed it, you can catch up here

Image: Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto

A couple of weeks ago, we reflected on “The Why Behind the What” – the purpose behind our actions. This week let’s build on that idea by focusing on intention – the deliberate way we bring our purpose to life in the small moments and daily choices that shape our work and lives.

In a world filled with responsibilities, deadlines, and distractions, purpose can often feel like a distant goal – an aspiration we try to keep in mind as we go through our daily tasks. But the true power of purpose lies not just in knowing why we do what we do; it’s in how we bring that purpose to life each day. That’s where intention comes in.

Why Intention Matters

Intention is the conscious choice to focus on how we approach our actions. Working with intention means our inner dialog and making mindful choices, even in routine tasks. When we’re intentional, we’re focused, present, and aware of the impact we want to create. Intention is what turns a simple task into a meaningful contribution and helps us stay connected to our purpose, even on the busiest days.

While purpose answers the question of ‘why’, intention answers the question of ‘how’ – how we show up, interact, and bring our values to each moment.

Working with intention allows us to live our purpose in real time. It’s the difference between doing a task just to complete it and doing a task to create a specific impact, for example to improve a process for the greater good of the team and the business.

Intention keeps us engaged, helping us to avoid the autopilot mode that can set in during busy weeks. With intention, even the most routine tasks can take on a sense of purpose, and we become more mindful of the contributions we’re making.

How to Bring Intention into Your Daily Work

If you’re wondering how to practice intention, here are a few simple ways to start:

  1. Begin with a Clear Focus

Before starting your day or a new project, take a moment to set an intention. Ask yourself: What impact do I want to have today? What do I want to accomplish or contribute through this work? Setting a clear intention helps guide your focus and keeps you connected to your larger purpose.

  1. Stay Present in Each Task

Distractions are a constant challenge, but bringing intention to each task helps us to stay grounded and fully present. By focusing on one task at a time, we can pour our best effort into it, knowing that each action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger whole.

  1. Align Actions with Values

Intention is strengthened when it aligns with your personal values. Whether it’s integrity, kindness, creativity, or collaboration, bring your values into your interactions and work processes. When we act in alignment with our values, we create work that is meaningful and fulfilling.

  1. Reflect and Refine

At the end of the day or week, take time to reflect. Ask yourself:

  • Did my actions align with my intentions?
  • What could I do differently next time to bring even more intention to my work?

These reflections help us to continuously improve and stay connected to the impact we want to make.

Living and Leading with Intention

For leaders, working with intention has an added benefit: it sets an example for others. When leaders model mindful, intentional behaviour, they create a work culture that values focus, purpose, and presence. This environment empowers others to approach their own work with similar care, creating a ripple effect that fosters connection and collaboration.

Final Thoughts

Intention is a powerful way to bridge the gap between purpose and action. While purpose gives us direction, intention brings that direction into each day, task, and interaction.

As we go through this week, I invite you to try an experiment! As you approach your work and other people, ask yourself: What do I want to achieve in this moment? How can I bring my best to this task or interaction? In doing so, we will not only achieve our goals, but we will also create a work environment rich with meaning, connection, and purpose.

“Success isn’t about doing everything.

It’s about doing the right things with intentional focus.”

– Greg McKeown  –

[British author, public speaker, leadership and business strategist.]

 

Let’s embrace intention this week, letting it guide us in our actions and relationships, and see the difference it makes in the work we do as well as in our lives.

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!

P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – Say it While You Can

gratitudeI hope this message finds you well and happy.

Last week’s Thought for the Week was “The Why Behind the What” and by making decisions transparent, leaders bring people along with them, building a stronger, more resilient team dynamic. If you missed it, you can catch up here

This week, I find myself reflecting on gratitude. Just days ago, I lost a dear friend who meant the world to so many of us. He was on the verge of a beautiful new chapter in his life – planning a future with his partner, filled with dreams and promises. Yet, in a moment, that future vanished, leaving us all in shock and sadness. He had a way of bringing joy, laughter, and a calm presence to our lives, and the emptiness left behind is a reminder of how deeply we valued him.

In this time of grief, I can’t help but wonder: how often do we truly express our gratitude and appreciation for those we cherish? We assume they know; we believe there will be time to tell them later, but life has a way of showing us just how fragile and fleeting it can be. We all loved him dearly, but did we tell him often enough? In our group, we shared so much with him – friendship, care for each other, laughter, memories – but did we tell him how much he meant to each of us?

Let this be a reminder to show appreciation to those around us, no matter how close or familiar we are to them. Let us speak our gratitude openly, with sincerity, so that those we love and know, beyond any doubt, just how much they mean to us. Life doesn’t always give us the luxury of “later,” so let us live with hearts that express and cherish the gifts of friendship, love, and shared moments, every single day.

 

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.

– Marcel Proust  –

[Valentin Louis Georges Eugène Marcel Proust was a French novelist, literary critic, and essayist who wrote the monumental novel À la recherche du temps (?In Search of Lost Time)]

 

Thank you being on this journey with me, I want you to know that I truly appreciate you.

Wishing you a week full of gratitude, friendship, love, laughter and all you cherish.

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page

Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – The Why Behind the What

the-why-behind-the-whatLast week’s Thought for the Week was “Aligning Vulnerability with Your True North” when I shared a vital lesson I learned in leadership and communication about how vulnerability is a strength when combined with taking action and becomes a bridge to connection and trust.

If you missed it, you can catch up here

Building on last week’s reflection, this week’s thought centres around clarity in leadership and the impact of making your purpose known to those around you. Let’s focus on the power of openly sharing our motivations and values.

When people understand the motivations behind our actions and decisions, it fosters a sense of trust, connection, and shared purpose. And ultimately, clarity in leadership can be a game-changer for team cohesion and morale.

The Power of Purpose-Driven Clarity

Imagine a leader who makes decisions but doesn’t share the reasons behind them. Even the best intentions can be misinterpreted if the “why” remains hidden.

When leaders clearly communicate the purpose behind their decisions – why something truly matters – they help others to understand the values and goals that are driving their actions. This openness fosters a shared sense of purpose that others can connect with and support, bridging the gap between intention and perception.

By making decisions transparent, leaders bring people along with them, building a stronger, more resilient team dynamic.

Here are just a few ways that clarity makes an impact:

  • Increases Trust: A transparent approach shows that you value honesty and respect, helping build trust over time.
  • Strengthens Connection: Purpose gives people something to rally around; knowing why something matters to you makes it easier for others to connect with it.
  • Builds Alignment: When leaders share what they care about, it gives everyone a chance to align their actions, making collaboration and focus stronger across the board.

Practical Ways to Lead with Clarity

Communicating purpose doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take intentionality. Here are three ways to create clarity in your leadership:

  1. Communicate the “Why” Behind Decisions: Whenever possible, share the motivations behind your goals, changes, or decisions. Whether through a quick explanation in a meeting or a more in-depth discussion, explaining the “why” helps others understand the purpose and goals that guide your actions.
  1. Invite Open Dialogue: Encouraging questions and conversations around your decisions reinforces transparency and shows you welcome different perspectives. It can be as simple as saying, “I’m happy to explain more about this decision if it’s helpful.” 
  1. Live Your Purpose Daily: When your actions and decisions consistently reflect your values, it strengthens trust and clarity. This goes beyond just talking about your purpose; it’s about showing it in both big and small actions, creating an authentic example for others to follow.

Encouraging a Culture of Shared Purpose

Leading with clarity isn’t only about the leader; it’s about fostering an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their motivations and values. When people feel encouraged to openly express what drives them, it strengthens team connection and alignment.

Consider starting a team conversation around shared values or goals and invite each member to reflect on how their own purpose aligns with those of the group.

Questions to Reflect on This Week: 

  • How clearly do you communicate the motivations behind your decisions?
  • Are there specific goals or values that could be shared more openly within your team?
  • How can you help others feel encouraged to share their own purpose and values?

Leading with purpose-driven clarity creates a space where trust, openness, and collaboration can thrive. By making our motivations known, we’re not only guiding others but inviting them to join us on a path of shared purpose. Let’s explore ways to make our purpose clearer and see how it strengthens our connections, decisions, and leadership.

 

People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.

– Simon Sinek –

[Author of “Start with Why” – How great leaders inspire with action]

 

Thank you being on this journey with me! Let’s continue to explore ways to make our purpose clearer and see how it strengthens our connections, decisions, and leadership.

Wishing you a purposeful and fulfilling week!

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – Aligning Vulnerability with Your True North

aligning-vulnerability-with-true-northLast week’s Thought for the Week was “Break Free from the Judgment Trap”, and if someone is being openly judgemental toward us, it’s easy to feel attacked. However, how we respond can shift the energy of the conversation by the way we respond. We also explored how we can be our own worst judges!

If you missed it, you can catch up here

We often hold back from showing our vulnerability out of fear of being judged – whether by others or ourselves. This fear can prevent us from building stronger, more authentic connections. But what happens when we let go of that fear and allow ourselves to be vulnerable as leaders? Let me share a story from my time working at British Airways …

I have shared with you how I was a Duty Manager in the Lost Baggage Department with British Airways; well prior to that, I was a special services representative, looking after the VIP’s, CIP’s, Royalty etc. Then I was promoted to the lost baggage role.

The first hurdle I had to jump was hearing comments on Day 1 from my new team such as “What’s this ‘posh bird’ from Special Services who is joining as one of our manager going to know about what we do?” They already had a perception of me, and it wasn’t a welcoming one. I had this lump in my throat and was feeling anxious and self-doubt was kicking in for sure!

Yes, I went from one extreme to the other, didn’t I? And while I wanted a new challenge, I quickly realised that this was a daunting one. My confidence wavered, and I couldn’t help but wonder: Would this team accept me? Could I lead effectively when I barely understood the daily struggles they faced?

It would have been easy to put on a brave face, pretend I had it all figured out, and hope they’d come around. But something told me that wasn’t the answer. So, on one of my first days, I decided to show vulnerability instead.

I decided to address the elephant in the room, stood before the team and admitted that this was all new to me. I told them that while I didn’t have the same hands-on baggage experience that they did, I was committed to learning, supporting them, and facing this challenge together. I didn’t try to act like I knew it all; instead, I embraced what I didn’t know and allowed them to see that I was just as open to learning as I was to leading.

To my surprise, being open about my vulnerability had a profound effect. Slowly but surely, the walls started to come down. Some team members began offering advice and showing me the ropes in a way they hadn’t before. The more I admitted what I didn’t know, the more they seemed to respect my willingness to learn. There were still a few die-hards who were resistant to change, and yet over time, even they softened, realising I was there to support, not dictate.

However, showing vulnerability alone wasn’t enough. As the team started to see me as more approachable, I knew I had to balance that openness with action – showing them that I had strengths and skills I could bring to support them. It was in those moments that I found the balance between vulnerability and authority.

While I didn’t have the years of baggage-handling experience they did, I was able to step in where it counted. I handled incredibly angry customers, defusing tense situations so the team could continue their work without being on the receiving end of that frustration. I represented their challenges and concerns in management meetings, fighting for more resources, safety protocols, and better mental health support for the team. Little by little, they began to recognise that I was on their side, not just as a figurehead, but as someone who could help make their work environment better.

This balance – being open about what I didn’t know, while showing up with real solutions, was what ultimately earned their respect. My vulnerability allowed them to see that I wasn’t pretending to have all the answers, but my actions proved that I could lead with authority when it mattered most. They realised that I wasn’t just “the posh bird from Special Services”; I was someone who was willing to learn from them and advocate for them.

That experience taught me a vital lesson in leadership and communication: vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a bridge to connection and trust. When combined with action, it can strengthen your authority and build a foundation of mutual respect. When we let go of the need to seem perfect and embrace authenticity, we invite others to do the same – and that’s when real teamwork and communication thrive.

 

True north is about authenticity and vulnerability. People want to follow someone who is real and open, not someone who is pretending to be something they are not.

– Bill George –

[Former CEO of Medtronic, Author of Authentic Leadership]

 

I’d love to hear about your experiences too!

Thank you for taking the time to share this journey with me. Wishing you a week filled with authenticity, vulnerability and great connections!

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – Break Free from the Judgment Trap

Break-free-from-judgement-trapWelcome back!

Last week’s Thought for the Week was “Saving Your Time & Energy with Boundaries”, why it is so important and how setting boundaries isn’t about shutting people out – it’s about allowing yourself the space to thrive authentically in your relationships.

If you missed it, you can catch up here

This week let’s reflect on the impact of feeling judged and how it affects us on a deeper level. Whether it’s during a meeting, a casual conversation, or simply sharing our ideas, that sense of being judged can hit us hard. It disempowers us, making us question our own worth, decisions, and contributions.

Feeling judged often triggers emotional responses that can cloud our thinking. Our confidence takes a dip, and instead of focusing on the content of the conversation, we start focusing on how others perceive us.

I have certainly been there, and I have learned over time that this response is a natural part of our emotional intelligence journey, but understanding and overcoming it is key to growth.

Judgement and Emotional Intelligence:

At its core, emotional intelligence is about understanding and managing our emotions, as well as recognising the emotions of others. When we feel judged, it directly challenges our sense of emotional security. We may feel defensive, embarrassed, or even angry. But emotional intelligence offers us a way to navigate these feelings with grace and self-awareness.

Being self-aware means recognising when we’re allowing judgement (or the perception of it) to control our thoughts. In these moments, ask yourself:

  • Am I reacting to what was said, or am I reacting to how I feel about what was said?
  • How am I interpreting the other person’s words or tone?
  • Could there be another perspective that I’m not seeing?

Gently done in this way, self-questioning is critical to managing our emotional response. By doing so, we can distinguish between genuine constructive feedback and unnecessary criticism, helping us to respond appropriately. 

Dealing with Judgement from Others:

When someone is being openly judgemental toward us, it’s easy to feel attacked. However, how we respond can shift the energy of the conversation. Here are a few strategies to handle judgemental behaviour in a way that strengthens, rather than diminishes, our emotional intelligence:

  1. Pause Before Reacting: Take a moment to breathe and think. Avoid responding from a place of emotion. This helps you stay calm and grounded.
  1. Stay Curious: Instead of getting defensive, ask open-ended questions. “Can you explain what makes you feel that way?” This can turn the judgemental moment into a more productive dialogue.
  1. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to politely let someone know when their judgement is unwelcome. “I appreciate your perspective; I’d like to discuss this in a more constructive way though.”
  1. Internal Affirmation: Remind yourself of your worth. Just because someone is judging you doesn’t mean their opinion is the truth. Rely on your inner confidence and trust in your abilities.

Building Self-Awareness:

Becoming more self-aware in conversations is essential. Whether you’re the one feeling judged or the one inadvertently casting judgement, self-awareness helps you step back, evaluate the situation, and choose a response that aligns with emotional intelligence.

If you find yourself being judgemental, take a moment to ask yourself why. What might you be projecting onto the other person? On the flip side, when you’re on the receiving end of judgement, remember that this is often more about the person judging than it is about you.

In developing emotional intelligence, we learn that feeling judged is not the end of the story; it’s an opportunity to grow. Each moment of discomfort is a chance to build resilience, foster empathy, and move toward healthier, more respectful communication. 

Internal Dialog:

Lastly and probably most importantly; we have to be mindful of how we judge ourselves because we can be our own worst critic can’t we!

Instead, just gently notice what comes up and be curious. When we can do this for ourselves, we become better at being this way with others!

 

When you judge another, you do not define them, you define yourself.

– Wayne Dyer –

[Internationally renowned author and speaker in the field of self-development]

 

This week, I invite you to notice when these situations crop up and practice being more mindful of how judgement affects us and how we can manage it. By cultivating self-awareness, we empower ourselves to navigate these moments with grace, transforming potential conflicts into opportunities for understanding and more meaningful connections.

I’d love to hear your experiences and any tips that have worked for you!

Thank you for taking the time to share this journey with me. Wishing you a week filled with clarity, balance, confidence and of course fun!

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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Thought for the Week – Saving Your Time & Energy with Boundaries

save-time-and-energy-with-boundariesWelcome back!

I hope this week finds you feeling empowered and intentional in your daily interactions.

Last week’s Thought for the Week was “Success Deserves a Spotlight” and why it can be difficult to talk about our successes and how embracing our achievements can build confidence and inspire others. If you missed it, you can catch up here

This week, I want to dive into a topic that many of us struggle with, but which is essential for our well-being: understanding and communicating boundaries. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, boundaries are crucial for protecting your time, energy, and mental health. Yet, so often, we hesitate to set them, or when we do, we struggle to communicate them effectively.

Why are boundaries so important?

Boundaries are like invisible lines that define what we are comfortable with, what we are willing to accept, and where our limits lie. They are essential for maintaining healthy, respectful relationships and ensuring that we don’t become overwhelmed or resentful. By setting clear boundaries, we are not only protecting ourselves but also giving others clarity on what we need to feel respected and supported.

Without clear boundaries, we can fall into patterns of overcommitting, people-pleasing, or allowing others to take more than we can give. This often leads to burnout, frustration, and strained relationships.

Why is it so hard to set boundaries?

Many of us struggle with setting and communicating boundaries for a number of reasons:

  • Fear of conflict – We worry that setting boundaries will upset others or create tension.
  • Guilt – We may feel guilty about saying no, especially if we’re used to putting others’ needs ahead of our own.
  • Desire to be liked – We often fear that saying no or setting limits will make us seem difficult or unkind.
  • Uncertainty – Sometimes, we simply aren’t sure what our boundaries are until they’ve been crossed.

However, setting boundaries is not about being selfish. It’s about recognising your needs and ensuring that you have the time and energy to be your best self for others as well as for yourself.

How can we set and communicate healthy boundaries?

Here are some tips to help you start setting and communicating boundaries more confidently:

Reflect on your needs – Take time to consider where you feel overwhelmed or stretched too thin. This can help you identify areas where boundaries are necessary.

Be clear and direct – When communicating a boundary, clarity is key. Avoid vague language, and instead, be specific about what you need. For example, “I need some uninterrupted time to focus, so I’ll be turning off my phone for the next two hours.”

Practice saying No – It’s okay to say no. You don’t need to over-explain or apologise excessively. A simple, polite refusal is enough.

Hold yourself accountable – Once you’ve set a boundary, stick to it. Consistency reinforces that your limits are important.

Recognise it’s a form of self-respect – Establishing boundaries is a powerful way of showing respect for yourself, your time, and your well-being.

Why boundaries strengthen relationships

While it may feel uncomfortable at first, setting boundaries actually strengthens relationships. When you clearly communicate your needs, you build mutual respect and trust. Others are more likely to honour your limits when they know what they are, and you’ll feel more at ease knowing you’ve created space for yourself.

Remember, setting boundaries isn’t about shutting people out – it’s about allowing yourself the space to thrive authentically in your relationships.

The only people who get upset about you setting boundaries are the ones who were benefiting from you having none.

– Unknown –

What are your thoughts? How do you handle setting and communicating boundaries in your own life? I’d love to hear your experiences and any tips that have worked for you!

Thank you for taking the time to read this week’s thought and wishing you a week filled with clarity, balance, and the confidence to protect your time and energy.

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training Empowering You to Thrive!

P.S. Please feel free to share your experiences and insights with me!

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Thought for the Week – Success Deserves a Spotlight

spotlight-successWelcome back! I hope you’re keeping well and thriving!

Last week’s Thought for the Week was “The Role of Assertiveness in Conflict Resolution” and how assertiveness bridges the gap between empathy and standing up for one’s own needs, allowing for respectful, clear, and balanced communication in difficult situations.

If you missed it, you can catch up here

This week, I want to explore something many of us struggle with: Why do we find it difficult to talk about our successes and sing our own praises?

Whether it’s in the workplace, with friends, or even in our personal reflections, many of us shy away from acknowledging our achievements.

Why is that? Here are a few reasons why we hold back:

  1. Fear of Seeming Arrogant: Many people worry that talking about their successes will come across as boasting. Society often conditions us to be humble, but this can lead to undervaluing our accomplishments. Assertiveness and pride in our work can be healthy when balanced with humility.
  1. Imposter Syndrome: A common phenomenon where even high achievers feel like frauds, imposter syndrome makes it difficult to own our achievements. We may feel like we don’t deserve success or that we were “just lucky.”
  1. Cultural Norms: In some cultures, discussing personal successes is seen as inappropriate or self-centred, making it even harder to share wins. These norms shape how comfortable we feel in highlighting our strengths.
  1. Fear of Judgment: We often worry about how others will perceive us. Will they think we’re full of ourselves? Will they downplay our achievements? These fears can cause us to stay silent, even when we deserve to celebrate.

However, being able to talk about our successes is an important part of professional and personal growth. Sharing our wins isn’t just about gaining recognition – it’s about building confidence, inspiring others, and opening doors for new opportunities.

How Can We Get Better at This?

  1. Reframe Success as Learning: View your achievements not as something to boast about but as examples of learning, progress, and growth.
  2. Start Small: Practice discussing your accomplishments with a trusted friend or colleague to build confidence.
  3. Celebrate Wins as a Team: When talking about personal success, frame it in the context of teamwork or collaboration to take the focus off “self-praise.”

By talking more openly about our successes, we not only acknowledge our hard work but also inspire and empower those around us to do the same.

What are your thoughts? I’d love to hear your experiences around this topic!

 

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.

– Oprah Winfrey –

 

Thank you for taking the time to read this week’s thought and I wish you a week filled with recognition of your successes!

With warmest wishes,

korinne-sig

Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training– Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Please feel free to share your experiences and insights!

P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here

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