AUDIO (TRANSCRIPT)

In an effort to help you with this personal mastery exercise, I want to share a quick story with you.

Many years ago, I discovered that the words I used with frequency, were also the same words other people were using to describe me. In order to test out my theory and be sure I wasn't just loosing my mind ... one day I decided to listen closer to the general conversations of one of my direct reports. She sat next to me, so it was easy to take notes on the words I heard her say on a regular basis:

After a couple weeks passed, I decided I'd had enough information to put my theory to the test. I had documented that she consistently used the words: Tired. Overwhelmed. Frustrated. Vacation.

So, while having lunch with my boss, I asked her what she thought of my direct report - in general. She replied...

“I think she has the skills to do the work, but she seems frustrated and overwhelmed. I’m beginning to wonder if she even wants to work here. She’s always talking about getting away. In my opinion, she needs a bedtime; getting a consistent night's sleep would do her some good."

Here are the facts: My direct report was very engaged at work. She never missed a deadline. She truly loved her job. She had a beautiful smile and an awesome laugh. But she was also a bit of a perfectionist. it’s when things weren’t perfect that she’d begin talking ... and she talked out loud, to herself ... but everyone else could hear her.

It’s your story. It’s for you to tell. BE intentional with the words you use in your everyday chit-chat. Even if it's to yourself!

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I want people to describe ME as:

High Energy - Educated/Informed - Listens - Trusting - Connected.

Here is an example of a two way conversation I have with the people making important decisions about me.

I become totally ENERGIZED while presenting information on personal branding. I have STUDIED this topic, and based on what YOU'VE TOLD me you’re looking for, I TRUST you are going to FEEL the same way too.

High Energy - Educated/Informed - Good Listener - Trusting - Connected.

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Now it’s your turn. What’s one word you want people to use when they’re describing YOU? What does that word mean to you? Dig deep to discover the meaning. The meaning will determine your promise. Why is that promise so important to you?

Take your time with this, and trust that you have all your best answers.

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Use the downloadable/fillable worksheets included with this lecture to document your answers.