“Stepping out and stepping up can be an intimidating experience, especially in social situations where the outcomes are unpredictable and uncertain. Have you ever been reluctant to . . .
• Say "no?"
• Request help?
• Ask for a raise?
• Stand up to a bully?
• Talk about tough topics?
• Confront a friend or spouse?
• Speak up and share your opinion?
• Begin a conversation with a stranger?
• Deliver a presentation or speak in public?
• Talk about the “white elephant” in the room?
• Befriend people who are much different than you?
• Make sales calls because you don’t want to be rejected?
• Approach a new group of people at a networking event?
• Go to an event by yourself where you did not know anyone?
Each of these scenarios can strike fear in the hearts of many because each involves risk and potential discomfort. Life holds endless circumstances with a broad and diverse range of challenge or conflict that require you to be brave.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“What is easy for one person may be terrifying for another. Not all people have developed an unshakable confidence to kick butt and conquer. How can meek and quiet wallflowers, both women and men, join the ranks of the risk takers and event shakers? The first step is to ask yourself how you may be feeling stuck and then get moving.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“If you like the relationship results you have been getting and don’t see any need for improvement, your status quo may actually be your sweet spot for comfort and contentment. That is a wonderful place to be.
However, if you are like most of us, staying stuck in your status quo may prevent you from striving, thriving, and growing in your relationship possibilities.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“I was once hired by an organization to deliver a workshop on networking. The goal was to provide their engineers with tools and strategies for expanding their circles of influence—to foster innovation, collaboration, and teambuilding. One of the engineers raised her hand in the middle of the program and bluntly said, “I’m happy with the people in my life and don’t care to add any more.” I respect and appreciate her position and have sometimes felt the same way.
But, as long as we are alive, we will meet, greet, and interact with new people. Even if we are not inviting them into our personal lives, being socially brave will open new doors which may have remained closed otherwise.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Fear is the number one reason why people do not take action. The divine irony is that most of the fears we experience are self-generated and born out of our own imaginings, hence the acronym False Evidence Appearing Real.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Every one of us, at some time or another, has allowed fear to prevent us from living our best possible life. The first step in conquering our fears is to identify and confront them. Among the most common are:
• Failure
• Success
• Being rejected
• Looking stupid
• Financial insecurity
• Falling on your face
• Being vulnerable
• Appearing weak or unhealthy
• Exposing your secrets
• Being alone or unloved
• Upsetting the status quo
• Disappointing others”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, ground yourself in your character values:
Building a solid foundation of integrity and character will fortify your confidence to face down fears and take bold action.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, take a deep breath & relax:
When you feel fear, your body tenses up and your thoughts lead you down an anxiety-ridden path. Stop, breathe, relax.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, interview brave people and learn their secrets.
Whom do you know that displays courage and confidence? Ask them for their best practices, mimic their actions, follow their steps, utilize their methods. Ask if they will mentor you.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, borrow courage.
There is inspiration all around you in the form of people who are living your dreams, achieving similar goals, and already succeeding. Knowing that something can be done is often half the battle. Most successful people find great reward in helping others reach for goals.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, avoid the bystander effect.
Rather than standing on the sidelines watching other people achieve their goals, jump in with both feet and get involved.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, get involved in a cause you are passionate about.
Serving a vision bigger than yourself changes your focus from self-doubt to whatever action is necessary for the vision to succeed. “When in doubt, take it out.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, change your attitude toward failure. Many successful people will tell you that if you aren’t failing, you aren’t trying—that failure is an essential precursor to achieving worthwhile endeavors. Failing (no matter how hard) is one of life’s best teachers for winning the next time.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, start small. Taking small, consistent steps for calculated risks will help you test your footing. Once you begin enjoying mini-victories, you will be able to build upon your small successes to escalate momentum and strengthen your courage to take bigger ones.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, build upon your strengths and talents. What are you good at? What makes you feel confident and personally powerful? Your competencies will ground you and build your strength.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, try something new for the first time. Take a chance. Stretch beyond your familiar limits by taking risks that move you out of your old mindset and into a new perspective. Once accomplished, trying something new bolsters your confidence and boosts your ability to be brave.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, reduce uncertainty by being prepared. As Zig Ziglar once said, “Success happens when opportunity meets preparation.” Preparing well for potential outcomes will provide you with a safety net if there is a hiccup, glitch, or temporary setback.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, practice, practice, practice. Each time you test your bravery you grow your self-assurance and increase your comfort to a greater degree. Repetition helps build confidence and competence. You did it; now do it again!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, Do It Scared. Being scared is a precursor to bravery, otherwise, it wouldn’t be bravery, would it? Mustering the courage to stretch beyond your familiar territory is a rewarding act in itself.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“To cultivate bravery and courage, may the Force be with you. Whether you fortify yourself with a positive mental attitude, affirmations, faith in God, prayer, and meditation, or an innate sense of personal destiny, you have the power to summon your courage and be brave. “Make it so, Number One!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“And as is often the case, the people who would benefit the most from reading a book like this are the ones least likely to buy and read it. For you, however, this chapter will serve as a sterling reminder to make your manners shine.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Impeccable manners and courteous behavior are the hallmarks for healthy relations and human interaction.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Polite people tend to be more respected, admired, and appreciated than their rude counterparts.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Without civilized social graces, not only is life more difficult, but a positive first impression can be destroyed as fast as it is made.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“I remember hearing years ago about a centenarian being interviewed on her birthday. She was asked, “Throughout your life, you have witnessed amazing change and innovation. The past one-hundred years have brought the inventions of the car, television, air conditioning, and microwave ovens. What is the most extraordinary change you have seen in your lifetime?” Without missing a beat, she replied, “That a teenager can say “suck” in front of their parents and get away with it!”
While cultural norms may have changed with the times, being considerate of fellow human beings is not an antiquated notion; its time hasn't ended. Quite the opposite is true. In our world today, kindness and politeness are needed more than ever.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“The elegance of etiquette is a timeless expression of class which transcends social status, demographics, educational level, and ethnicity. Good manners say more about you than the person who is on the receiving end.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Take the initiative with deliberate steps to be a polite person:
1. Say please when you are making a request or asking for help.
2. Say thank you when a person has said or done something kind or at your request.
3. Ask permission before borrowing something that’s not yours.
4. Hold doors open for the next person coming through.
5. Offer a helping hand before being asked.
6. Let the people exiting an elevator step out before you step in.
7. Be kind to people who are in service positions.
8. Keep your negative opinions close to your vest and out of earshot where your words might hurt or offend.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Life rewards action. To get from where you are now to where you want to be requires forward movement and momentum. Although you may already know what it takes to bridge the gap, simply knowing what to do is not enough.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Action is the key to creating the changes needed to propel you toward your chosen outcomes and help you achieve your relationship goals. How are you allocating your time, energy, and activities to ‘activate your awesome’ and contribute to making a positive first impression?”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“The Art of Action explores specific action steps you can take for personal and professional transformation. Start by taking the initiative to be kind, courageous, and polite.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Become a ‘good finder’ and seek to acknowledge the best you see in others.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Move beyond yourself to serve a greater purpose and vision. Learn to mix, mingle, and glow, thus helping others feel more comfortable, at ease, important, and connected.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“By being fully present and engaged you will maximize your moments to make every encounter count.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Being proactive and intentional will enable you to create a positive experience for yourself and others.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Nice is a little word with a big meaning. How many times did your mother say, "Just be nice?" It's basic manners, yet in our negative world today people often neglect to extend random acts of kindness and simple acts of courtesy.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“It is no mystery why nice people are well-liked and get along harmoniously with others. Being nice makes people feel emotionally safe, allowing for more authentic, trusting, and happy interactions.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Google Proves Nice Counts. On a quest to discover what it takes to build the "perfect team," Google launched the Project Aristotle initiative to find the answers. Over a period of several years, they surveyed hundreds of teams, conducted interviews, analyzed studies, and observed how team members interacted with one another.
Google’s findings revealed that "psychological safety" is the key ingredient for creating a high-functioning team. It nurtures a healthy environment that encourages freedom of expression, engaging communication, empathy for one another, caring, support, respect and, drum roll please . . . BEING NICE!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Benefits of Being Nice
• You set positive karma into motion.
• What you give is what you get back in return.
• You are more likable.
• People will treat you better.
• You will reduce personal stress.
• You will make friends more easily.
• You can improve someone else’s day.
• You will have less drama in your life.
• It takes less energy than being otherwise.
• It makes you a more valuable team player.
• You create a sense of emotional safety for others.
• It can keep you physically and psychologically safe.
• You set a positive example for others to play nicely.
• You will build bridges of cooperation and collaboration.
• You will improve personal and professional interactions
• Lastly, being nice feels nice!”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“In the hit movie, “Pay It Forward,” a middle school child dreams of how he can change the world by being the catalyst for kindness. He begins his “social experiment” by performing a selfless act of kindness, and so begins the domino effect. As each consecutive person receives an act of kindness they, in turn, do something nice for another. The kindness becomes contagious and changes hundreds of lives for the better. Think of the global impact we could make if more people would make it their mission to simply pay if forward by BEING NICE.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“ASK YOURSELF: Have you found that being nice to some people is simply not effective? When might it be wise to throw down the gauntlet and get tough or confrontational?”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“While you will certainly attract more bees with honey, there are times when being nice can backfire. Take it from a naturally kind person, being a “bitch” has its time and place. There will be times when you must engage with mean, rude, and inconsiderate people.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Being Nice Has Its Limitations. While you will certainly attract more bees with honey, there are times when being nice can backfire. Take it from a naturally kind person, being a “bitch” has its time and place. There will be times when you must engage with mean, rude, and inconsiderate people.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“4 Times to Get Tough . . .
1. Self-Respect—You don’t have to take everything on the chin and lose the respect of yourself and others in the process. Don’t be a doormat or a pushover by allowing people to disrespect or run over you. Stand firm in your beliefs and values.
2. Self-Preservation—Understand and set boundaries. Decide what is and what is not acceptable in how people treat you. Claim your power to live life on your terms and not at the whims of others’ unreasonable requests and demands.
3. Protecting others—If you are a parent of a child or a caretaker of the elderly or disabled, it is your moral duty to defend them to the end.
4. Self-Defense—Have you ever felt threatened, unsafe, or abused because of another’s behavior? Assert yourself and do whatever is necessary to ensure your safety. Being kind DOES NOT mean you should excuse such behavior.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Some people not only burn their bridges, but they also torch the town! With all their deeds of drama and destruction, they leave behind an aftermath of distrust, disrespect, and disappointment. And for what? This behavior creates immeasurable suffering in all directions. It ruins reputations and business deals, shatters lives—and closes doors which can never be re-opened. These repercussions can be prevented or avoided by simply BEING NICE.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Kindness is a powerful bridge builder which unifies teams, bonds friends, supports loved ones, and spreads goodwill. Tending to your bridges will fortify your relationships in such way that you will keep your invitations coming and your options open for future opportunities.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Whoever came up with the idea that "nice guys finish last" must have been either very jaded or downright malicious. Why would a caring, emotionally healthy human being ever think that being “un-nice” is a virtue? Anyone who wants to get ahead in life and have quality outcomes needs to understand that kindness is a strength. You will move forward faster by making friends rather than foes.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“17 Ways to Just Be Nice
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
―Aesop
1. Be sincere.
2. Be altruistic.
3. Practice patience.
4. Inquire and engage.
5. Keep your promises.
6. Offer help to others.
7. Acknowledge others.
8. Control your behavior.
9. Be situationally aware.
10. Be polite and courteous.
11. Use considerate manners.
12. Greet people with a smile.
13. Practice random acts of kindness.
14. Show respect for yourself and others.
15. Be complimentary and look for positives.
16. Walk in another’s shoes to understand their needs.
17. Share of yourself without expecting anything in return.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“When it comes to meeting new people, playing well with others, and connecting on deeper levels, there are inherent gaps which can be closed only by being brave. When is bravery needed?”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“It’s not bravery unless you are doing something which causes you to feel afraid. Unless there is some degree of fear or apprehension involved, bravery is not even needed.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
“Being brave requires taking deliberate action and doing something new that stretches you beyond your comfort zone.”
Source: The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact