I was observing in a multi-doctor oral surgery practice, and they had lined up several new patient exams for me to see that day. The first doctor that I observed clearly and succinctly stated to the patient, “You’re going to need an implant to replace that tooth.” The second one took a different approach. One I call StorySelling. “Tracy, you …
A Stronger Woman In Me
I’ll admit it. I’m directionally challenged and a terrible gambler. A few years ago, while cycling on a beautiful morning ride, I bet Tom “a million dollars” we were heading west. He just smiled, shrugged his shoulders, put his head down, and proceeded in the direction of which I was so sure. Suffice it to say, if I’d been rich, …
People Acting Badly
Is it just me? Or have any of you had the out-of-body experience of severely overreacting to something said to you at just the wrong time, in just the wrong way, in just the wrong circumstance, with just the wrong words and intonation, and (BAM!) suddenly you feel your face peeling off, your fangs popping out, and Cujo exploding from …
Drama-Free Living
One of the things I am most passionate about is the power of operating in work and life “drama-free.” Why? Because I’ve seen the massive positive results that living drama-free can produce with my very own eyes. People who operate drama-free move their personal and professional lives forward in ways that those who live ‘in drama’ can’t even imagine or …
Things Are Always Working Out for Me
One of my favorite sayings when a wonderful little happy-stance happens for me is, “Life is always working out for me.” I often whisper it to Tom, accompanied by a little wink, and use it as “one more piece of proof” when the perfect spot opens up in a crowded parking lot or my flight is delayed on the very …
The Speaker You Never Forget
I wanted to be the speaker they would never forget. But God, I was nervous. I was waiting to take the stage to deliver one of my very first keynote addresses before a very prestigious organization in my industry. How would I do? How would I perform? What if I embarrassed myself? What if I forgot my first few lines? …
The Stories of Our Lives
Storytelling, or StorySelling, as I like to refer to it in business, is one of the best business tools in your arsenal if you are a leader, trainer, or speaker to communicate a message with passion, feeling, and meaning. Stories connect your team, clients, and audiences to the emotional “why” in the message you’re trying to get across. Stories can …
Feeling the Fun
This picture always makes me laugh. I can just feel the abandonment of fear and sheer joy in it. I want more of these moments in my life, not actually jumping naked off a pier (I hate cold water!), but I want more of this feeling, that feeling of unabashed FUN, don’t you? Last year, my colleague Kristie Boltz, recommended …
Looking Under the Hood of Shoulds
I’ve been paying closer attention to my health lately. I’m eating more whole foods, especially more leafy greens, berries, and protein, and consuming less alcohol. I’m stretching and walking daily and strength training 3-4 times a week. I’m monitoring and getting better sleep by shutting off electronics and getting to bed earlier. I’m drinking more water and green tea. Besides …
Inspirational Direction
It’s almost that time again and it’s anyone’s guess what kind of shenanigans we’ll see at this year’s Oscar Awards ceremony! Was it only one year ago that Will Smith walked on stage and slapped Chris Rock? Whew… talk about drama. But instead of dwelling on unsavory moments like these, I’d like to shine a spotlight on an Oscar moment …