Spring Clean Your Mind – Reset, Refresh and Renew

Spring Clean Your Mind

After a long winter, we could all use some renewal to awaken our best self.  Practicing mindfulness techniques can help clear the clutter and dust away mental cobwebs.  We do it for our homes and gardens but what about our minds?  As the warmer weather approaches, we’re sharing some tips to refresh, reset and renew; to spring clean your mind and step into the season with more energy and clarity.

1. Clear Out Mental Clutter

Much like sorting through a cluttered closet, it’s essential to assess the thoughts and habits that no longer serve you. Ask yourself:

  • What thought patterns are holding me back?

  • What worries or regrets am I carrying that I no longer need?

  • Where can I shift my focus to bring more positivity into my life?

Try journaling or meditation to bring awareness to mental clutter and let go of unnecessary baggage.  With a clear mind, you’re ready for a refresh.

2. Refresh Your Daily Routine

Winter may have left you feeling sluggish or stuck in a routine that no longer energizes you. Spring is an opportunity to shake things up:

  • Start your mornings with intentional movement like stretching, yoga, or a brisk walk.

  • Nourish yourself with fresh, seasonal foods that boost your energy.

  • Incorporate mindfulness practices into your day, like deep breathing or gratitude reflection.

A small shift in your routine can have a big impact on your mindset and mood.

3. Detox Your Digital Space

We spend so much time online that digital clutter can feel just as overwhelming as physical mess. Try a digital detox to create mental space:

  • Unfollow accounts that don’t uplift you.

  • Limit screen time, especially before bed.

  • Organize your emails and delete old files.

Less digital noise allows more room for real-life connection and clarity.

4. Let Go of Emotional Baggage

Spring cleaning isn’t just about discarding old items—it’s also about emotional release. Take a moment to acknowledge any lingering feelings of resentment, frustration, or sadness. Consider:

  • Writing a letter (even if you don’t send it) to release unspoken emotions.

  • Practicing forgiveness, both for yourself and others.

  • Engaging in self-care rituals that soothe and replenish you, such as a warm bath, massage, or nature walk.

Emotional clarity brings lightness and a sense of renewal.

5. Plant New Seeds for Growth

With a refreshed mind, you can now focus on growth. Just as flowers bloom in spring, you can nurture new habits, ideas, and aspirations:

  • Set one or two meaningful goals for the season ahead.

  • Surround yourself with positive influences who uplift and inspire you.

  • Embrace curiosity—read a new book, take a class, or explore a hobby.

By planting new seeds, you’ll cultivate a mindset that flourishes throughout the year.

A Fresh Start Awaits

Spring cleaning your mind isn’t about perfection; it’s about making space for clarity, peace, and new possibilities. By clearing mental clutter, refreshing your routines, and embracing emotional renewal, you’ll step into the season with a lighter heart and a rejuvenated spirit.

So take a deep breath, welcome the fresh air, and give yourself the mental refresh, reset and renewal you deserve. 🌿

If you want to take a deeper dive and reset your mind join Julies on line Empowered course. This is set at your own pace and includes a one-on-one coaching session with Julie.

More details here: Empowered Program

 

Leading With Heart

Changes in Leadership

Dramatic changes in the world over the past decade have resulted in a changing workforce.  We are in a time when emotional health is at the forefront of everything we do, including how we perform at work as leaders, teachers, and mentors and at home as parents.  As a result, what we need out of people in leadership roles has changed as well.  Fundamentally, this means out leaders need to adapt to thrive.

The Power of Compassion in Leadership

In a world that often prioritizes profit, efficiency, and data-driven decisions, leading with heart is not just a refreshing approach to leadership, but a necessary one.  Compassionate leadership is not about being overly emotional or making decisions solely based on feelings—it’s about fostering connection, understanding, and a culture where people feel valued and inspired to give their best.

The Essence of Heart-Centered Leadership

Leading with heart means leading with authenticity, empathy, and integrity. It requires a deep awareness of one’s own values and a commitment to fostering growth in themselves and others. The heart-centered leader is one who understands their own emotional compass and is brave to do their own inner work and healing. Leaders who lead with heart prioritize relationships, recognize the humanity in their teams, and create an environment where trust and psychological safety thrive.

Why Compassion Matters in Leadership

  1. Stronger Team Connection – Employees who feel seen and heard are more engaged and loyal.

  2. Increased Productivity – When people feel valued, they are more motivated to contribute.

  3. Resilience in Challenges – Compassionate leaders inspire teams to navigate adversity with courage and unity.

  4. Positive Organizational Culture – A heart-centered leader cultivates a workplace where kindness and collaboration flourish.

The Lasting Impact

Leaders who lead with heart don’t just build successful businesses—they build thriving communities. Their legacy is not only in revenue and results but in the people whose lives they’ve touched. When compassion and leadership intertwine, the result is a workplace that fosters both personal and professional growth.

Are you ready to lead with heart? Learn all this and more in Julie’s newest book “The Heart Centered Leader”.

Leading with heart creates your BIGGEST impact

Being able to lead with heart sounds easy and can be!  To maximize impact, it’s important to practice self care – which, admittedly, can be difficult in the depths of a cold and dreary winter.   That’s why I’ve prepared some great tips to help get you into the right headspace so you can be your best heart-centered leader!

  1. Nourish from Within – Enjoy seasonal superfoods like citrus, dark chocolate, and warming herbal teas to support your mood and immunity. 🍊🍵

  2. Move Your Body, Boost Your Mind – Whether it’s yoga, pilates, or a brisk winter walk, staying active helps shake off sluggishness. 🏋️‍♀️❄️

  3. Get Social, Stay Connected – Combat isolation with cozy get-togethers, wellness retreats, or spa days with friends. Laughter is the best therapy! 🥂💆‍♀️

  4. Glow Up with Self-Care – Treat yourself to hydrating facials, body treatments, or an at-home spa night. Your skin (and soul) will thank you. ✨🧖‍♀️

  5. Embrace the Light – Maximize daylight exposure, open your curtains, or try light therapy to keep your energy levels up. ☀️

  6. Find Your Cozy Ritual – Whether it’s journaling, reading, or mindful meditation, create a daily ritual that brings you warmth and joy. 📖🕯️

Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

Your Vibration is Directly Linked to Your Success

Your Vibration is Directly Linked to Your Success

 

The laws of the universe – makes us all accountable for our own happiness and misery.

The energy or frequency you emit, known as your vibration, influences the outcomes in your life as well as having a discrete influence over those around you. High vibrations, associated with positive emotions and thoughts attract positive experiences and opportunities this means that your vibration is directly linked to your success.

Likewise, lower vibrations that are linked to negativity, attract challenges and setbacks. By consciously raising your vibration through practices like gratitude, mindfulness, and positive thinking, you align yourself with success and well-being.

The core idea is that by taking responsibility for your inner state, you can shape your external reality.

True success, is success in all areas of your life; relationships, wealth, health, career. When success is lacking in an area of your life, you may still feel unbalanced.

Let’s take a look at 5 laws of the universe and how to make them work for you:

Law of Polarity

“Everything has an opposite. If you’re dealing with a difficulty, there is equally the opportunity to achieve something beneficial.”

Make this law work for you by tuning into the thing you want to be experiencing versus focusing your energy on what you do not what to be experiencing. For example, if work feels hard and you keep telling yourself it is hard,  know that ease is also a opportunity or an outcome you can experience by focusing on ease. “This comes easy to me, I do this with ease”.

Law of Vibration

“Every particle in the universe vibrates at a particular frequency. By raising your vibrational energy through positive thoughts and emotions, you attract better experiences.”

The best way to make this law work for you is by checking in with your energy before starting a task. If you feel off or stressed, hit pause, take a few deep breaths, maybe go outside and once you feel the shift withing, then go back to the task.  You will be operating from an elevated vibration which will feel better.

Law of Attraction

“You attract what you focus on. Focusing on positive things brings you more positive things. When you focus on the negative side, such as problems, it will bring you more problems.”

Make this law work for you by paying more attention to where your energy is being focused. This is a powerful law when we work with it to attract more of what we want.

Law of Inspired Action

“To manifest things, you must take inspired or intentional actions towards your goals, not just wish for outcomes.” See your desire as a reality to help take the first steps to inspired action.

Use this law by allowing the action part to be fun and easy. When you take inspired action it doesn’t feel hard, it feels right. If you don’t feel this then take a pause to shift your energy then start your actions again.

Law of Cause and Effect

“Every action has a reaction or consequence. This teaches accountability for our actions.” Actions inspired by higher vibrations lead to better consequences.

The best part of this law is you get to be accountable for your actions and others get to be accountable for theirs. Think of how much energy you waste on worrying about other peoples actions or taking offense to them. You can let this go and let the universe take care of it.

Using these laws of the universe can positively impact your vibration which directly impacts your success. By maintaining a high vibration through positive thoughts, emotions, and actions, you align yourself with opportunities, resources, and people that resonate with success. Conversely, low vibrations rooted in negativity and self-doubt can create obstacles and hinder progress. Understanding and consciously elevating your vibration can be a powerful tool in achieving your goals and manifesting the life you desire.

True fulfillment arises when you find harmony and growth across these key aspects, ensuring a well-rounded and balanced life.

If you are ready to increase your vibration and upgrade your programing to create a success mindset book your complimentary hypnosis consult here.

By Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

Can You be a Great Leader If You Are an Emotional Person?

Can You Be a Great Leader If You Are an Emotional Person?

We are human which means we all have emotions. It is impossible not to have emotions. The question is, are you a an emotionally healthy leader? Meaning that you are in-tune with your own emotions; you do not suppress them or ignore them, and you know how to emotionally regulate. You are aware of when your triggers come up and are willing to look at them and do the inner work to shift. Our emotions are always acting as guides, telling us when we are in or out of alignment. An emotionally healthy leader is a conscious and impact leader that creates positive ripples. We need more emotionally healthy leaders today.

Five Signs of An Emotionally Healthy Leader

1. They’re Happy When You Succeed and They Give You the Credit

Emotionally healthy leaders understand that their success is intertwined with the success of their team members. They genuinely celebrate your achievements and ensure that you receive the recognition you deserve. They do not feel threatened by your success; instead, they see it as a validation of their leadership. This behavior fosters a positive work environment and motivates team members to continue striving for excellence.

2. They Value Your Opinion

An emotionally healthy leader values diversity of thought and encourages open dialogue. They actively seek out and listen to your opinions, knowing that different perspectives can lead to better decision-making and innovation. By valuing your input, they demonstrate respect and trust, making you feel valued and integral to the team. This inclusive approach helps build a collaborative and supportive workplace culture.

3. They Own Their Mistakes

Leaders who are emotionally healthy are not afraid to admit when they are wrong. They understand that acknowledging mistakes is a sign of strength, not weakness. By taking responsibility for their actions, they set a powerful example for their team, promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. This transparency builds trust and encourages others to be honest about their own mistakes, fostering a learning environment.

4. They Are Actually Happy When You Succeed

Beyond just giving you credit, emotionally healthy leaders take genuine joy in seeing you grow and succeed. They invest in your development and provide opportunities for you to advance. Their happiness for your success is sincere, not just a performative gesture. This genuine support helps build strong, positive relationships within the team and encourages a culture of mutual respect and encouragement.

5. They Do Not Project Their Moods or Stress onto You Because They Know How to Regulate

Emotionally healthy leaders are self-aware and have developed strong emotional regulation skills. They do not let their personal stress or negative emotions affect their interactions with the team. Instead, they manage their emotions effectively and maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even in challenging situations. This emotional stability creates a safe and stable work environment, where team members feel secure and focused on their tasks without the added pressure of dealing with a leader’s unpredictable moods.

Emotionally healthy leaders create a positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment by celebrating your successes, valuing your input, taking responsibility for their actions, genuinely supporting your growth, and regulating their emotions effectively. These qualities not only enhance team morale but also drive better performance and overall organizational success.

To do a personal deeper dive into this by booking a complimentary discovery call for Julie’s executive leadership coaching program. Link HERE

by Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

Healing Through Deeper Connections

people showing healthy relationships

Healing Through Deeper Connections

 

Building Stronger Connections Heals

You just met up with a girlfriend and you had the best night. Your heart is full of love and gratitude for your time with her and the beautiful deep connection. You just filled your emotional cup.

You’re having a glass of wine and cooking a meal together with your partner. Your partner is telling you about his day at work and you ask him what his dreams are for his business this year. He passionately tells you his ideas and you are listening intently and encouraging him that he can do anything. He looks at you and says you are amazing, and you can do anything to. What does your biggest dream look like this year? You give it some thought and respond about a big audacious goal you have; you step into your vulnerability, and it feels prickly, but you share anyway. He holds the space for you to dream and believes in you. You feel a sense of peace and deeper connection and love for him. You just filled your emotional cup.

We are emotional beings and when we deepen our connections with others, we fill our emotional cups which ultimately shifts our energy or vibration. Whenever we are feeling more love, more connection it is like we are giving our soul a beautiful healing tincture.

Connection fuels love and love is the most healing vibration. So the more love and connection we have the healthier it is for us.

Prioritizing deeper connections might just be one of the healthiest things you do not only this month of February but all year long.

In today’s fast-paced world of constant distractions it has become even more important to put your device down, take a breath and be present with the ones you love. Carving out 5 minutes a day of connected conversation can fill your emotional cup.

Simple Mindset shifts and tips to connect deeper:

  1. Re-group with what matters- the most important relationships in your life deserve to be a priority. Carve out time daily/weekly to connect.
  2. Coffee/ Tea breaks: – take an uninterrupted coffee break with your partner to connect during the day. It can be over zoom. They key is 5 minutes of focused time with no distractions.
  3. Have sacred times: In our house meal times are sacred. As often as we can we sit as family and share a meal. No phone allowed. 😊
  4. Have a walking date: Get your steps in and connect. Double bonus. Have a walking buddy, either a friend or your partner. This is a great way to connect especially while in nature you will feel a deeper decompression.
  5. Mindset shift: I have time for the people that mean the most. If you are feeling burned by connecting because you don’t have time change your mind about it. It is a privilege to have a loved one in your life, the key is to remember that.
  6. Connect to yourself: remember the most important connection is to the one with self. Have daily quiet time for reflection, meditation, journaling or just sitting in silence is very healing and deepens the connection to SELF.

When we are in our final days it is not the hours we worked we will remember or even the things we stressed about and definitely not the material things we accumulated that will matter. We will reflect on our life with the connections we made and that will ultimately give us a peaceful and full heart. Filling our emotional cups and deepening our connections might just be the most healthy and joyful thing you do this year. Stronger Connections Heal!

by Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

Reset for the new business year!

Reset for the new business year!

 

As the warm embrace of summer begins to give way to the crisp air of September, a golden opportunity emerges—a chance to reset, rejuvenate, and realign our energies. The symbolic significance of this transitional month offers a perfect juncture to embark on a journey of elevating both personally and professionally, starting with a revitalizing act: clearing clutter from our physical spaces. A new business year!

There’s a curious connection between the environment we inhabit and the thoughts that occupy our minds. An office cluttered with disorganized papers, forgotten artifacts, and remnants of the past can inadvertently mirror the chaos within. As the September breeze rustles through open windows, it’s time to declutter not only our surroundings but also the mental cobwebs that have accumulated. By purging the extraneous, we create space for fresh ideas and perspectives to flow freely. This act of tidying up is more than an aesthetic overhaul—it’s a tangible step toward mental clarity.

Clearing Physical Clutter

  1. Set a Clear Intention: Before you begin, establish a clear intention for the space you’re decluttering. Whether it’s your office, bedroom, or living area, envision how you want it to feel and function once the clutter is gone.
  2. Divide and Conquer: Break the space into smaller sections to prevent overwhelm. Start with one area at a time, such as a desk, shelf, or drawer.
  3. Sort and Categorize: As you go through items, sort them into categories like “keep,” “donate,” “discard,” and “relocate.” Be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use.
  4. Declutter with Purpose: Keep only items that serve a functional or sentimental purpose. Let go of things that are broken, unused, or no longer relevant to your life.
  5. Organize and Store: Once you’ve decided what to keep, organize items in a logical manner. Use storage solutions like boxes, bins, and shelves to keep things tidy and easily accessible.
  6. Create a Maintenance Plan: To prevent clutter from building up again, establish a regular cleaning and organizing routine. Spend a few minutes each day tidying up to maintain a clutter-free environment.

Clearing Mental Clutter

  1. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves being present in the moment without judgment. Engage in activities like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to calm your mind and create mental space.
  2. Journaling: Write down your thoughts, worries, and feelings in a journal. This can help you unload mental baggage, gain perspective, and identify patterns of thought.
  3. Prioritize Tasks: Create a to-do list and prioritize tasks. Focus on completing one task at a time instead of trying to multitask, which can lead to mental clutter.
  4. Digital Detox: Clear your digital space by organizing your emails, files, and apps. Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails and limit your time spent on social media.
  5. Let Go of Negative Thoughts: Practice self-compassion and challenge negative self-talk. Replace self-criticism with positive affirmations and constructive thoughts.
  6. Practice Gratitude: Shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life. Regularly express gratitude for the things you have and the experiences that bring you joy.
  7. Simplify Commitments: Evaluate your commitments and responsibilities. Learn to say no to tasks or activities that add unnecessary stress and clutter to your life.
  8. Engage in Creative Activities: Engaging in creative pursuits like art, music, or writing can help channel your thoughts in a productive and expressive manner.

With a clean canvas before us, the next step in this September reset involves crafting powerful intentions. Intentions are more than mere resolutions; they are conscious declarations of purpose that guide our actions and choices. As we shed the layers of self-sabotage, we invite in the possibility of growth and transformation. No longer weighed down by doubt or fear, we can set our sights on loftier goals and dreams. The magic lies in believing that we are worthy of the success we seek, and that belief becomes the driving force behind our every endeavor.

Interestingly, as we let go of the hustle mentality that often leaves us exhausted and burnt out, a profound shift occurs. Inspired action takes center stage. Unlike the relentless grind of hustling, inspired action emerges effortlessly. It’s a state where our thoughts are in harmonious alignment with our objectives.

Example affirmations include:
  • “I am in flow with my business, it comes easy to me.”
  • “My thoughts are in alignment with my vision.”

This alignment creates a natural flow that propels us forward with ease and enthusiasm. Each step taken feels purposeful, each decision intentional. Inspired action isn’t about pushing ourselves to the limit; it’s about tapping into our innate creativity and resourcefulness. It means moving away from hustle and more into flow.

September is a reminder that life operates in seasons, and each season comes with its unique invitations. As summer fades we find ourselves standing on the threshold of autumn—a season of change, a time for reset and a time for inspired action.

By clearing the clutter from our surroundings and minds, we prepare the canvas of our lives for a fresh masterpiece. With intentions set and self-sabotage dismantled, we embrace the liberating concept that success need not be an arduous journey. Instead, it can be a dance of inspired action, where our thoughts and aspirations dance in perfect harmony.

This is when the real magic happens. The action should feel easy and fun; this is when you know you are in alignment.

Happy September and may your month be purpose-filled and fun.

 

Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

Work Life Balance – Why it is impossible to achieve unless we internally shift.

Work Life Balance

Why it is impossible to achieve unless we internally shift.

 

Work-life balance is something that millions of people try an achieve every year with very little success often leading to burnout and overwhelm.  What exactly does work life balance mean and why has this become one of the most sought-after ideals of our modern-day world?

Work-life balance is often referred to as balancing the time we spend at work with time spent in our personal lives including time with loved ones, social time and selfcare.  The problem with this is we may never actually get a balance between the two, however what is important is how you feel.  The truth is it is nearly impossible to achieve balance all the time because there will be time-sensitive deadlines or projects that come up with work and throw the balance off.

So how do we successfully manage this delicate equilibrium between the demands of work and personal life?

Rather than waiting for your external world to give you the balance, they key is understanding that it is an internal job to achieve this balance. So much of this has to do with our perspective on things. What is the story we are telling ourselves and where is your mind right now?  Many times, we feel out of balance because our mind and body are disconnected.

Let me explain.

1. Upgrading the ‘story’ we tell ourselves

A mindful approach to your thoughts will help you achieve inner peace and balance. Many times, our inner story is around telling ourselves how hard something is or complaining about the task at hand or the person we need to deal with. A self loving or balanced approach to creating inner peace must first come from changing inner dialogue to more up-lifting and encouraging statements such as:

“I got this.”

“I am strong, and I can handle this.”

“This project might be demanding but I can do it and I am giving myself the necessary breaks I need to recharge.”

“This might feel like a challenge right now, but the answer is always there, and I will figure it out with ease and grace.”

“Right now, I am going to solely focus on work and then tonight when I am home, I will enjoy a wonderful meal with my family.”

If you want to feel better the most effective way is to change your internal story. You will feel better when you change what you tell yourself!

2. Connecting Your Mind and Body – Being Present

Being present is an essential aspect of attaining work-life balance. It means fully engaging and immersing oneself in the present moment, whether at work or in personal life. When you are present, you can give your undivided attention to the task at hand, improving productivity and efficiency. Being present also enables you to connect with others on a deeper level, fostering stronger relationships and social support networks.

In the context of work, being present means focusing on the task at hand, minimizing distractions, and practicing mindfulness. It involves being fully engaged in work-related activities and avoiding multitasking, which can lead to decreased productivity and increased stress.  Multitasking is like fracturing your energy trying to divide yourself in pieces leaving you feeling depleted. With singular focus, you can be more present and hence more productive and achieve better outcomes. Ultimately, you will feel better and have a bigger sense of accomplishment allowing you to leave work at work.

Conversely, being present in personal life entails dedicating quality time to loved ones, pursuing hobbies and interests, and taking care of yourself physically and emotionally. It involves setting aside work-related thoughts and concerns and being fully present with family and friends. Set your device aside and engage in activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Being present in personal life helps you recharge your batteries and find fulfillment outside of work. This meditation is helpful in becoming aware of the present moment.

Work-life balance is primarily an internal working that necessitates self-reflection, setting priorities, and making conscious choices. Being present in both work and personal life is crucial for achieving a good balance. By cultivating mindfulness and being fully engaged in the present moment, you can enhance your overall well-being, improve productivity, and foster meaningful connections in all aspects of your life.

by Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

 

Feel Empowered – Take Control of Your Life

Ever feel like things are so out of control in your life?

I know I have. When things feel out of control, they become overwhelming and heavy. It can cause great stress, anxiety and worse; over time if we don’t do something about this feeling, it can lead to chronic stress or depression.

The good news is that there are things we can do to take back control and really understand that we have the power to feel peace, to feel safe and to have faith.

I realized a long time ago when I was so tired of living in fear that I had to do something to feel better. The real change happened when I stopped waiting for my world to get right, before I could feel right.

I knew to change how I felt, I had to shift. It was and is the only way.

Here is fantastic news, you have the power to shift! And when you realize that by changing some of your internal programing, you can literally change how you feel and hence how you experience your life. You will be able to exhale because you realize that you are in control and always will be.

Ready to get into the driver’s seat of your life?

Here are some simple tools to use to take back your control and begin to smile more.

Ways to take control back and feel empowered in your own life:

 

Pay attention to the thoughts in your head:

Everything in our life begins with our thoughts. Our thoughts ultimately create how we experience our life. If something does not feel good the first things to ask are;

“What am I telling my self in this moment. What am I thinking in this moment?”

 

If you change your mind about the problem, it can’t exist:

I know this might sound so strange but it is true and it works. There cannot be a problem if you change your dialog or thought around it. Even if someone has done something to hurt you or upset you, you can still change your thoughts about it, you can change your STORY.

“Why is this showing up for me?

“What is my trigger?”

“What can I learn from this situation?

“What might be the wake up or the blessing here for me?”

“This is only temporary, this will pass, I will and can get through this, in fact I will thrive because of this!”

Start to change your internal dialogue and you will start to change how you feel. You will take more control back.

 

Turn Limiting Beliefs into Unlimiting Beliefs:

A belief dictates our life experiences but remember a belief is simply a thought that you have had for a long time and put on repeat. A belief is your belief, and if you don’t like how it is limiting you, then start to change your thought to reprogram your belief.

Have you ever noticed why success looks easy for some people? It is not because they have different tools then you, they just have a different belief than you. They believe that success is inevitable for them and hence they achieve it , attract it or manifest it.

Never underestimate the power of your beliefs and if they are in any way holding you in fear, then I recommend that you starting to change your internal program.

 

Prioritize yourself:

The biggest tool to take control of your life and feel more joy is to know without a doubt that “You are a priority”. When we grow the well of self love everything else in our life changes. We love ourselves deeper and others take cue on how to love us deeper. My book ‘Me First’ goes in-depth on prioritizing self.

When we prioritize ourselves we also prioritize feeling good so it becomes effortless to do things that feel good like eating healthy, getting enough sleep, moving our bodies etc.  We do this from a place of inspiration rather than by force, knowing that prioritizing ourselves must come first.

 

Surround yourself with positive influences and thoughts:

Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, and limit time with negative influences.

Our sense of obligation can mislead us into spending time with toxic people. If spending time with certain people doesn’t feel good, then limit or eliminate it. I know sometimes this includes family and this can be difficult, but you are always in control of how much time you decide to spend or devote to people that seem to bring you down. This is having self-loving boundaries, if it doesn’t feel good then it isn’t.  Ask yourself: “What am I willing to tolerate? How much of myself am I willing to give?”

 

Take 100% responsibility:

When we don’t blame others for our unhappiness, we get our power back!

We are responsible for our own happiness and also for our own misery.

When you truly get this you can live the most empowered life with full control because when something doesn’t feel right you get to change it. Change it by your thoughts, your actions and your reactions.

Your body will never lie to you, so let it guide you on this beautiful journey, tune into your emotions and acknowledge them. And then when you are ready to feel better you simply start by changing your mind about it.

You have this power, you always have, your mind is a big muscle and it takes practice and persistence but it will listen, you will shift, and you will feel better.

Want more help?

Link to my sleep meditation to help with re-programing.

Link to learn about my Hypnosis Sessions.

Julie Cass

Creating your business vision to help you scale

Creating your business vision to help you scale

The entrepreneurial journey is one of major personal growth. Creating a vision for your life around your health and wellness and setting personal goals is extremely important when it comes to keeping your mind balanced and in check. Likewise, creating a vision for your business is equally as important for scaling and growing your business. 

While performance, budgeting, and money are all very important aspects of scaling and something that every business should do, it’s not the core of scaling. Creating a vision to scale your business involves getting a clear picture in your mind of where you see your business going. This picture involves the customers you’d like to serve, the different revenue streams that your business will create, the employees you’ll be hiring, the physical space where you would like to operate, and so on. 

A clear vision of how you will feel once you achieve this business growth is also very vital to the process, as you are connecting your mind with your emotions. The clearer you are able to get, the better. Whether it’s writing it down or adding pictures to help tie what you see in your mind to a clearer vision. This will help you stay on track, get clarity, and keep your eye on the prize. 

Tips to remember as your scale your biz

Once your vision is clear, it is time to get ready for growth and scaling your business. Below are 4 important things to remember as you scale your biz:

Flexibility

When we create a vision for scaling our business, our main focus tends to be the ‘what.’ Sometimes, when we are too focused on the ‘how’ we become too rigid in our approach. Being able to pivot and be flexible is super important on this journey. Flexibility allows us to be able to thrive, even in the face of adversity. This was proven by businesses that were able to stay flexible during the pandemic. 

Learn to pivot

Flexibility and pivoting go hand in hand, and are essential for entrepreneurs. Sometimes we need to pivot and change our model to better suit the current conditions of the business environment. Learning to pivot in unexpected situations is key to sustaining growth. 

Don’t give up at “no”

On this journey, you are going to get no’s; it’s inevitable. But the good thing is that you’re also going to get yesses, but you have to keep going past the no’s. When you understand and believe in your mission and core values of your business, a ‘no’ should not stop you. You have to remember that a ‘no’ from someone does not mean a ‘no’ from everyone. There are always people who will need and want your services.

Remember your “why”

 When you create a vision to scale your business, the deeper meaning behind it should lead back to why you want to do it. Keeping anchored to your “why” is going to help you to stay on course and focused and help you to scale your business. For most entrepreneurs, it’s more than just dollars and cents. It’s about creating impact. This is what will keep you going. 

So, while spreadsheets and budgets are important, one of the most important things about scaling your business is having a clear vision. Those key points listed above will help you to scale, stay on track, and grow the business of your dreams. 

For more help on scaling your business, book a discovery call! I’ll be happy to work with you on specific takeaways that you could implement right away. 

by Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

Employee Empowerment: How to make your employees feel empowered

Employee Empowerment: How to make your employees feel empowered

How You Can Make Your Employees Feel Empowered

Empowering employees is one of the most motivating things you can do. Empowering employees means giving your team members permission to take action and make decisions within your organization. It also implies trust and understanding and allows your employees to feel more part of the process and a bigger contributor to the results.

Empowering employees is important for growing a sustainable business. While many companies may grow ground-up from one or two entrepreneurs’ time and dedication, true growth is the product of multiple people working together. “Multiplying” yourself (as opposed to a strict leader-follower mindset) multiplies your organization’s strength and capabilities.

Motivating and empowering employees is vital for leaders of all levels. Research shows employee empowerment leads to higher job satisfaction, improved work performance, and greater organizational commitment.

Whether you’re a seasoned or aspiring leader, understanding how you can enable your colleagues to reach their full potential has several benefits. Here are some ways to empower your employees and cultivate a winning team.

What is employee empowerment?

Employee empowerment is a management philosophy emphasizing the importance of giving employees the autonomy, resources, and support they need to act independently and be held accountable for their decisions.

Employee empowerment can significantly impact employee satisfaction, productivity, and engagement. The hallmark of this approach is a willingness among leaders and managers to share power with their teams to achieve better results for the company, employees, and customers or clients.

Knowing how to motivate and empower employees

The benefits of employee empowerment

Empowering employees may boost morale, increase productivity, foster innovation, and increase retention, positively impacting the company’s bottom line.

Motivate employees

According to research, employee motivation is directly connected to increasing employee autonomy. More control over the time, place, and manner workers do their duties has increased productivity. On the other hand, employees will put their best foot forward if they get the opportunity to show off their talents.

Greater trust in leadership

According to a meta-analysis published in Harvard Business Review, leaders who empower their staff are more trusted by their subordinates than leaders who do not empower their employees. To be clear, this does not mean that empowering staff means handing over tasks that managers don’t like. Empowered leaders act as coaches, encouraging and supporting their employees as they strive for excellence. 

Improved creativity

In the same Harvard meta-analysis, leaders perceived as empowering that have direct reports and were more likely to be rated by their colleagues as highly creative. Unsurprisingly, subordinates who allowed their employees to think for themselves and collaborate across teams generated more novel ideas. 

Additionally, direct reports who felt empowered were more likely to volunteer for extra assignments and support their organizations outside their day-to-day job function. Psychologists suspected that empowered individuals were more committed to meaningful goals and used their creativity to achieve them.

A stronger bottom line

Companies that promote employee empowerment perform better than those that don’t. Businesses with highly motivated workers are 21 percent more profitable. Conversely, disengaged employees in the U.S. cost businesses a staggering $450 to $550 billion yearly.

4 steps for empowering employees in the workplace

Empowering people has many advantages, but establishing it as part of a company’s culture requires substantial effort. Follow these four steps to begin establishing best practices throughout your business.

1.) Feedback reveals how to empower your workforce effectively

When a company’s empowerment plan is implemented, individual personnel and the company’s culture must be considered. Spend time figuring out which forms of employee empowerment are most effective for your group. And empower employees to provide feedback to managers and senior leadership from the start of their time with the company, so they get into the habit, and any early issues can be identified and addressed. It’s important to use the correct engagement solution to facilitate open, honest interactions between workers and executives. In doing so, it order to empower everyone and build trust.

2.) Recognize to empower

More than twice as many employees engage in companies with a high rate of employee recognition, according to Brandon Hall Group’s Culture of Recognition Pulse Survey; and so Workplaces with high employee recognition are 79% more likely to have a high brand rating. Platforms for employee recognition demonstrate NPS boost ratings and raise stock values, in addition to enhancing individual performance.

3.) Provide opportunities for professional growth — and the necessary support

40% of workers who get subpar training quit their jobs within five years, according to HR experts. 

HR must also ensure its employees have a clear route to promotion within the organization.  Employees who are serious about advancing their careers should have access to a variety of resources, including coaching, mentorship, and training, to help them get there. If you’re looking to enhance morale and give your staff a sense of direction, try forming mentor connections with more senior employees. The seasoned boss and the newly hired employee may benefit from the other’s knowledge and expertise. Employees will not benefit much from the partnership if psychological safety is neglected.

4.) Make empowerment part of your organization’s culture and vision

A culture of empowerment can only be fostered by leaders who see their job as a support system for their staff. Think of methods for current employees to mentor new hires or set up mentorship circles. Everyone on your team, from HR to managers to upper-level executives, must feel empowered if you want your business to succeed.  An excellent starting point is to listen to and recognize workers, and to have an impact on the whole business, this must be done regularly. 

Therefore, a culture of continuity is created when people are empowered to face any challenges that may come their way, even a worldwide epidemic.

The Positive Change Group is on a mission to empower entrepreneurs and leaders by giving them the tools they need. Book a strategy call today.