UNLOCKED Links: January 2017


Once a month, I curate the best links on how to find work that you love, be excellent at what you do, and unlock any door that stands in your way. Mostly, I gather articles and podcasts that capture my attention because they make me think or laugh. Here is the link round-up for January 2017!

Thought For The Month

Ellen Fondiler | UNLOCKED Links: January 2017

• When was the last time you read an actual book? Or not checked your cell phone during dinner? While there are certainly valid arguments that technology has opened our minds and in some cases, our hearts — in this article by Jonathan Safran Foer, he argues that the closer the world gets to our fingertips, the more we stand to lose.

• Even though we are well into January and 2016 is a thing of that past, I am still reading ‘Best Of” lists. Here are a few that I particularly like: 50 Best Podcasts; Even more Podcasts; Blog posts; and Music and Books.

• And while we are talking about 2016, for those who think it was the Worst. Year. Ever. Here is some perspective.

• Turning to the present, our beloved POTUS and FLOTUS are about to take their leave. Here is a new book of essays where 16 writers love on Michelle Obama. I could not agree with them more. She will be missed.

• And while we try to find ways to get through the next 4 years, here are thirteen amazing women who should think about running for President in 2020. There is no time like the present to start.

• Speaking of the next four years, we will be needing lots of diversion. How about starting a podcast club with your friends and neighbors? Add in a potluck and it’s a great way to spend an interesting evening.

• Every year I swear that I will get my password act together. Find better ones. Remember what they are. I never seem to get around to it or figure out how best to do it (sort of like that earthquake kit I keep meaning to make). Here, in cartoon form, password security is explained.

• In astrology (and in life), the passage from 29-30 years old is a major transition. This interesting article looks at the ‘average’ 29 year old. It was way different than I would have imagined.

• Thinking of getting married or making a major commitment to your significant other? What you don’t know can really hurt you. Here are 13 questions to ask each other before moving forward. They might feel too intimate or awkward, but it is certainly worth your time to dive in.

• And finally, among many other things, January is a great time to re-evaluate and re-tune your career. Here are some great tips! (You can also hire me!)

Happy reading and listening,

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Image: Willie Franklin.

Your Career Forecast: December / January 2017

Ellen Fondiler | Your Career Forecast for Capricorn: December / January 2017

I work as a career and business strategist. But my secret passion is… astrology!

About once a month,  I post an overview of what’s happening in the cosmos and how it might influence your career. It’s called: Your Career Forecast.

Whether you’re job-hunting, running your own business, or wondering about the ideal time to ask for a raise or take a vacation, each Career Forecast will reveal the important dates and cosmic shifts that you need to know about.

I am joined by my dear friend, Heidi Rose Robbins, a master astrologer who will provide expert insight into what’s going on in the stars.

Let’s dive in!

OVERVIEW

What’s going on this month…

HEIDI: The Sun moves into Capricorn on December 21st, 2016 at 2:44am for about 30 days. 

Capricorn is an earth sign—a sign of practicality, responsibility and commitment. The symbol for Capricorn is the Mountain Goat or the Ram. If you’ve ever seen a Netflix nature documentary with footage of goats clinging to the side of a steep mountain slope, then you know how tenacious and committed these creatures can be!

Capricorn is serious about its business. It stands for leadership and accomplishment and does not shy away from tough, arduous work. It’s all about excellence, discipline, and taking charge. During the time of Capricorn, you’re likely to feel a strong sense of inner resolve and a renewed commitment to your goals. Let the upward climb begin!

On December 25th, Venus—the planet of love—creates a unique configuration in the sky with Jupiter, Uranus, and Saturn. It’s a triple-Venus day, which means tons of open-hearted feelings and lots of l-o-v-e- in the air! Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, this will be an excellent day to spend time with loved ones and soak up that beautiful, harmonious energy. Or, if you intend to spend time alone, try to fill your day with activities that feel enriching and soul-satisfying. Send “thank you” letters to colleagues and mentors, or spontaneously call up an old friend for a long chat.

The Sun conjuncts Mercury on December 28th. This is a great day for writing and communication in any form. Consider setting aside this day as a “mini writing retreat.” Re-write your business plan. Empty your inbox. Bust out one or two more blog posts before the year is over. You’ll be teeming with ideas, and words will flow with ease!

On January 2nd, Venus moves into Pisces, bringing another wave of harmony and love. It’s a gentle way to enter 2017, full of feeling and imagination. Music, poetry and photography are all connected to Pisces. Flip through a book of poetry on this day, or discover a new music playlist. Saturate yourself with art and beauty, and allow yourself to daydream about what you could create in the upcoming year.

On January 4th, Mercury continues the retrograde that started back on December 19th and dips back into Sagittarius for 8 days. This is a good week to revisit your goals, visions and plans for the New Year, and revise your plans if necessary. Could your plan be simpler? Are there any non-essential projects that you could eliminate? What really needs to happen first, before anything else? Make a list of action steps that you can implement with conviction starting on January 12th, when Mercury re-enters Capricorn.

January 7th could be an intense day with the Sun conjunct Pluto. The words we hold back, the feelings we don’t share, the old habits that we sweep under the rug, anything that needs to be brought to the surface… this is the day when it all might burst forth. The planet Pluto represents “the underworld,” and calls upon us to examine the darker aspects of our personalities—avoidance patterns, addictions, unhealthy tendencies, social media obsession. What’s the “secret” or “crutch” that you’re ready to release, once and for all?

Don’t get discouraged on January 19th if you feel like your efforts are being thwarted.
Mars squares with Saturn on this day, which can create a “boulder in the middle of the road” feeling. Be patient and take a few deep breaths. It will pass. The fact that you had to “wait” may ultimately be a blessing in disguise.

What does all of this mean for your career? Let’s look closer…

JOB-HUNTING?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: The time of Capricorn (December 21st, 2016 – January 19th, 2017) is an excellent for anyone who’s job hunting.

Firstly, Capricorn brings a determined, forceful, climb-up-that-mountain type of energy—you’re likely to feel driven and motivated, not lackadaisical.

Secondly, January is typically a peak month for recruitment and hiring. Most companies have a new annual budget in place, and new positions that need to be filled, and interviews/hiring meetings go into full swing.

Use December 28th—a strong day for writing and communication—to get your job hunting materials in tip-top shape. Add a slew of new achievements to your résumé. Write a series of thoughtful, personalized cover letters. Refresh your LinkedIn profile. Get everything squared away so that you’re ready to contact hiring managers in early January—say, January 4th, 5th or 6th—because that’s when people are likely to be back at their desks after the winter holidays.

If you feel shaky about your writing skills, check out this workbook and this one, too. Inside, you’ll find some of my favorite résumé and cover letter writing tips—plus some ready-to-use templates to make the process much easier.

ALREADY HAVE A JOB?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: Even when you totally love your job, there’s always room for improvement. Often, we fall into ruts, and we keep doing certain things around the office because “that’s what we’ve always done.”

On January 4th, the stars invite us to ask, “What’s the plan for this year—and does it actually make sense? What should we keep doing? What could we stop doing?” Maybe there’s a particular section of the company website that you update every week—but does anybody even visit it? Or maybe there’s a standing weekly meeting that happens every Thursday at 2pm like clockwork—but for what purpose, exactly?

At some point between January 4th and 12th, have a private meeting with yourself—or with your entire team or department—and spend some time revisiting and examining your 2017 plan. Mercury is retrograde until January 8th, making this an especially good time to spruce, revise, and revamp.

SELF-EMPLOYED OR RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: On January 2nd, we’ve got a beautiful day associated with music, poetry, photography, aesthetics and beauty. On this day, send an artful gift to a couple of your favorite clients—or potential clients. It doesn’t have to be anything expensive. It could be a free music playlist, a link to a poem that you love, or a postcard that you drop into the mail. Say something like, “I hope you had a beautiful winter vacation. I’m thinking about you today—and I’m really excited to begin our work together in the New Year.” All too often, we forget to express our appreciation—even though it’s so simple to do. Small, heartfelt messages can create a big impact.

January 2nd would also be a wonderful day to start—or publicly share—a new “art project” of your own. Let your “inner artist” come out and play. Start working on a new e-book. Try writing a haiku. Host a workshop in your living room. Play around with a free audio recording tool, like Audacity, and record a short podcast just for fun. Who knows where it could lead, and there’s no harm in trying new things!

On January 19th, Heidi warned us about a “boulder in the middle of the road” type of feeling, thanks to Mars squaring off with Saturn. Don’t push too hard on this day. If you’re waiting for a response from a client—for example—and they’re being sluggish, just chill out. Take a break from your computer. Go for a walk. See a movie. Do something that invigorates you.

Take stock of your own actions, too. Do you struggle to take action consistently? Do you have a couple of tasks on your to-do list that, somehow, just never seem to get done? Are “you” the biggest boulder in your own road? (We all get blocked and distracted at times—we’re only human!). This workbook contains great tips on how to stop feeling so stuck, and if you need something a bit “stronger” than a digital workbook, I’d be honored to work with you personally.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:

December 21st – The Sun moves into Capricorn for about 30 days. (Set your sights on your goals and dig in your heels like a tenacious mountain goat. You’ve got this!)

December 25th – Venus trine Jupiter; Venus sextile Uranus and Saturn. (Big day of loving, open-hearted feelings, pleasure, and harmony. Soak it up!)

December 28th – Sun conjunct Mercury. (Terrific day for writing and communication in all forms. Charge up your laptop and sharpen those pencils!)

January 2nd – Venus moves into Pisces. (It’s all about love, beauty, and artistry. If there was ever a day to try your hand at writing poetry, or pick up a camera and hone your photography skills, today’s the day!)

January 4th – Mercury retrogrades into Sagittarius. (Take a step back. Review and reflect. Does your 2017 plan still make sense? Does anything need to be revamped?)

January 7th – Sun conjunct Pluto. (Intense emotions and things emerging from “beneath the surface.” Think: explosive outbursts, surprising revelations, or a long overdue “reality check” with yourself about something you’ve kept buried for too long.)

January 12th – Mercury moves back into Capricorn. (After a brief lull, we’re back in full-tilt Capricorn-mode. Driven, ambitious, committed energy. Climb that mountain summit!)

January 19th – Mars square Saturn. (If something’s blocking your path, it will likely pass. Relax and be patient.)

YOUR CAREER MANTRA FOR THIS MONTH:

“Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.” —E.B. White

During the month of Capricorn, there’s a tendency to become hyper-focused and driven. That’s fantastic—you can make huge strides with your goals—but don’t forget to smell the proverbial roses along the way. If you’re barreling up a mountain, peek up occasionally and take in the majestic scenery. “Be on the lookout for the presence of wonder,” as E.B. White urges us. Wonder is all around us, at every turn, even during the most arduous moments of our lives.

Happy New Year! Whatever career aspirations you’ve got this year, remember that every door can be unlocked. With the right attitude and strategy, there’s always a way to create what you want. Nothing—and I mean NOTHING—is out of your reach.

Have an amazing month!

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Learn more about my career & business coaching services here.

Learn more about Heidi and her astrological services here.

Maya Stein and Amy Tingle: Poets, Bookmakers, and Co-founders of The Creativity Caravan

Unlocked Stories: Maya Stein and Amy Tingle: Poets, Bookmakers, and Co-founders of The Creativity Caravan

To do the work you love, you’ve got to unlock a few doors. UNLOCKED Stories are honest conversations with people who chose a path and made it happen.

A note from Ellen:

I connected with Maya and Amy through our mutual friend, Laurie. Immediately, I was enchanted by their creativity, passion, and their gypsy-spirit lifestyle.

Maya and Amy are very special “grown-ups”—they’re the kinds of grown-ups who haven’t forgotten how to play, make things with their hands, and use their imaginations.

I loved interviewing both of them to learn more about their latest project, The Creativity Caravan, and how they navigate the challenges of being a married couple AND also business partners. Read on and enjoy…

Unlocked Stories: Maya Stein and Amy Tingle: Poets, Bookmakers, and Co-founders of The Creativity Caravan

What do you do?

[Amy and Maya]: We are the co-founders of The Creativity Caravan, a mobile arts business based in New Jersey. Our mission is to spark creativity in communities everywhere. We lead art and creative writing workshops here in NJ, and we travel with our vintage caravan all over the country. We recently completed a 10,000-mile trip through 24 states sharing our collection of miniature books made by artists from around the world, and teaching tiny book-making workshops in libraries, bookstores, art galleries, and community arts centers.

We are also a couple. We got married two years ago in two sweet ceremonies. The first took place in Vermont with Maya’s mother, a Justice of the Peace, and her violin-playing sister, and four cows as our witnesses. The second was at the end of our 30-day traveling literacy project, Type Rider II: The Tandem Poetry Tour, when about 50 of our close friends and family members descended on the Poetry Garden in Beloit, Wisconsin to witness us exchange vows and then promised to help support us throughout our journey. Each of these ceremonies were equally powerful moments in providing us with a foundational center of connection, collaboration, and community—guiding principles for us in both our private and professional lives.

What were you doing before you started The Creativity Caravan?

[Amy]: I have worn many hats. Public school teacher, managing editor at the book publisher, Simon & Schuster, bartender, freelance editor, and most importantly mother of two boys who are now nearly grown and ready to leave the nest and make their mark on the world. Evan turns 18 this week and Charlie is 15. They are my greatest teachers!

[Maya]: I have worn fewer hats than Amy in certain ways, but my work as a freelance writer for 15 years has offered a pretty wide variety in terms of experience, and has given me the flexibility to explore beyond my immediate landscape. Twice I’ve taken my love of writing on the road for some meaty projects involving bicycles and typewriters.

But I’ve also dipped into other loves—food, for example—by running a small catering business for a few years in San Francisco (I lived there for 16 years), and spearheading a French crèpe stand (Crèpe Diem) during a year-long stint in Western Massachusetts. I would say my life before Amy and our business together involved a lot of going-where-the-wind-takes-me. I did a lot of things by the seat of my pants, for better and for worse. There was a certain uncertainty about it all that I was quite enamored of, and I think probably prepared me well for the demands of a collaborative business, marriage, and step-parenting.

What is your favorite part about what you are doing now?

[Amy]: Building relationships. I’m definitely a people person. We have to have partners to be able to sustain this work. We have to find people who believe (nearly) as passionately as we do that creativity unlocks many doors and ask them to help us find others in the community who do the same. It’s the most painstaking piece of the job, and the most rewarding. I love that aha! moment when someone “gets us” and starts to think about where and with whom we would be a good fit. I mean, who doesn’t like to be seen and understood?

[Maya]: I love the incredible degree of experimentation we do with our work, and the flexibility we have in doing so. Our mission statement provides the essential structure and template—it serves as a kind of scaffolding—but the rest of it is open to wild interpretation, and that suits us well. It means we can change, adapt, retrofit, or otherwise reconfigure our offerings to make better sense for the communities we want to serve.

Also, I think “service” is a huge piece in our satisfaction metrics. The work has meaning because its value goes beyond our personal fulfillment. And that’s a tremendous and continuing reward in creating a collaborative business from scratch, this sense of meaningfulness and purpose that keeps expanding to include more people.

Least favorite part?

[Maya]: We do a lot of outreach with the community, finding allies and partners for workshops, projects, and events. The sheer volume of email communications and meetings and phone calls to get a single thing off the ground can get a bit overwhelming. The back-and-forth between ideation and execution. Sometimes, I just want to, you know, get whatever it is underway RIGHT NOW; I don’t want to spend three months trying to set up a meeting about it. Of course, I understand that partnering with others means that you are somewhat at the mercy of their schedules. So, to counterbalance that wait time, we do lots of things to fill the space that have more immediate rewards of completion. Doing our own writing and art, for example.

[Amy]: Taxes. Or just the mathematical/business end of things in general. My brain sees an equation and shuts down completely. I’d rather write 95,000 emails than do our taxes.

How do you begin your day?

[Maya]: We’ve discovered this new thing called Bulletproof Coffee. It’s regular coffee blended with a tablespoon of unsalted butter. We add a shake of cinnamon and it’s like a really good, smooth, rich latte. On a day that we don’t have anything scheduled in the morning, we kind of do our own thing for about an hour, and then one of us will pipe up and say, “Okay, let’s have a meeting.” We start a list of to-do’s, then we’ll go back and forth picking the things we’ll take care of. Of course, there are things that neither of us particularly wants to do—finish our health insurance application, for example, or call the car repair place to make an appointment for an estimate on the dented bumper—but we always say things like, “I’ll take one for the team” and it feels like you’re doing each other the good kind of favor, where you don’t resent doing it.

When you’re having a difficult or stressful day, how do you get through it?

[Amy]: Netflix and booze. Just kidding! We don’t have a perfect formula, but I’ll listen to music or make something with my hands, or take a walk. I’m also the type of person who likes to do something that is immediately gratifying like scrubbing a toilet or wiping the counters so at least I feel like I’m accomplishing something. This doesn’t necessarily help with the exhaustion, but it does boost my mental health to get a small task completely done. I probably need to come up with something better to give me a boost.

And it’s true, we do love a glass of Prosecco at the end of a particularly long day. If the weather is warm, we’ll sit on our front porch and toast to making it through another 24 hours. Then we’ll turn on Netflix and binge-watch the latest series.

[Maya]: I heartily agree with all of the above—except the scrubbing the toilet part. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that doing that does not in any way counteract a difficult, exhausting, or stressful day.

Unlocked Stories: Maya Stein and Amy Tingle: Poets, Bookmakers, and Co-founders of The Creativity Caravan

What are some of the most challenging aspects of your work?

[Maya]: The fact that our professional lives are entwined with our private lives makes for a pretty unique set of opportunities and challenges. It can hard to separate one from the other—our business is our life in many ways because we’ve both completely invested ourselves in its creation and success. And this can swing both ways in terms of feeling great or feeling stressful. It’s hard to take breaks, to go on vacation. But on the flip side, it is wildly invigorating and enriching to our relationship as a couple. We have so many points of intersection, conversation, interaction, understanding. For me, probably the biggest challenge is to individuate from that. To carve out space and time and energy to nourish my own friendships and spirit and passions and creativity, independent of Amy. To remain connected to my SELF.

The first couple of years of our business coincided with the first few years of our relationship—they were really one and the same. And it’s just been recently, the past year or so, when I realized that I wasn’t quite covering my own bases. Like I’d eaten enough food but I hadn’t had enough water. I found myself getting antsy, irritable, sad… all signs that something wasn’t quite getting met.

[Amy]: For me, the greatest challenge is balancing motherhood and a career, especially owning our own business. Unlike other jobs, you don’t get to leave your work at the office at 5pm in either situation. We work strange hours and carve out time for our own creativity in small spaces while caring for two teenage boys. It’s certainly easier at this stage than when they were younger. These days, they aren’t as physically demanding and, let’s be honest, teenagers prefer to be with their friends than with their parents. Also, my older son can drive now, so the day-to-day schedule is less taxing.

But it takes an incredible amount of energy and attention to parent children at any stage, and I definitely struggle sometimes with how to make it all work. I can get overwhelmed and my tendency is to get quiet and try to manage it all on my own. I’ve learned to share the burden better, to ask for what I need from Maya, and to ask the boys to take responsibility for things like their laundry or helping to prepare or clean up after meals. And they both have weekend jobs so they don’t bug us for pocket money all the time. I like to think these things will serve them well as adults, as will watching us build our business. I want them to know they can create the lives they want to live; it doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s.

Do you ever fantasize about having a totally different career? What would you do, in your fantasy-world?

[Amy]: Maya always teases me that what I really want is to be the lead singer in a band. I do adore live music and wish I played an instrument and could actually sing in the right key or harmonize! I suppose she’s right. I’d love to belt out tunes on a big stage backed by a full band that includes a stand up bass and an accordion. The idea of being on the road and traveling all over the world to sing on a different stage every few nights always seemed like a wonderful life. I guess now that we have traveled so much with our own work, I’ve realized it’s not nearly as glamorous as it looks, but I’d still love to be able to move people with my voice and some kick-ass lyrics.

[Maya]: I used to fantasize about being an Olympic athlete, but I suppose given the professional timeline of most Olympiads, I would have long retired by now. I honestly can’t think of anything I’d rather be doing, career-wise. Until 5 years ago, I had a solo business as a freelance writer, and during that time I also had a small catering business.

I loved the mix of these activities and the feeling of deep satisfaction whenever I completed a job. But I also went through bouts of feeling pretty lonely and isolated—there was no one, really, to talk about my work with—and I think if I’d just kept it up, I would have stopped enjoying that work and probably gotten burnt out. I’m happy our business together has involved some travel, and if anything, I just want to do that more. In my fantasy world, we spend 6 months on the road and 6 months at home. 6 months devoting our time to work with others, and 6 months devoted to creating our own art.

Who are your personal heroes and role models?

[Amy]: I love to meet or read about other couples who are in business together; the artist, Lisa Congdon and her partner, Clay Walsh, Natasha Case and Freya Estreller who own the ice cream manufacturer Coolhaus, our dear friends Jonatha Brooke and her husband Patrick Raines who founded Bad Dog Records, and our local friends Kadie Dempsey and Dan Fenelon who have just started a creative placemaking company called CORE. I’d love to sit in a room with all of these people and find out more about how they balance business and marriage. It helps to hear other people’s stories and to commiserate and recalibrate. Sometimes I just want to call another couple and say, “How do you do it??!”

[Maya]: I think less in terms of “heroes” and “role models” as I do “mentors” and “allies” and “peers” and “companions.” I often turn to these people when I have navigational questions about any number of topics—sustaining a creative practice, workshop ideas, work-life balance, marriage, and parenting. Having a conversation with someone that I love and respect helps me to see my own life more clearly.

I don’t try to emulate my life after anyone else’s. I think we all have a very singular life experience, made up of very personal moments and feelings and choices and mindsets and behaviors. Of course, I can get inspired by other people’s lives, but it’s important for me to keep relatively close to the bone of my own life.

What’s the next big goal that you’re tackling, or the next door that you need to unlock?

[Maya]: The first thing that comes to mind is true sustainability. Not just financial—though that’s a big part of it—but I would like to have greater ease in moving from thought to action. I feel like we spend an inordinate amount of time talking about doing rather than the doing itself.

So, I think what this means is establishing a firmer base of support and community so that we aren’t “efforting” as much to sell people on the work that we do. And I know that it’s happening—we are doing things incrementally in service of that goal—but it’s hard to exercise that kind of patience. I think the financial piece becomes more accentuated as a result. We get nervous when money doesn’t come in, and get agitated and start to feel frustrated by our limitations. I never want the focus to be on our bank accounts, but we can’t NOT look at those, so I don’t want to be blind to them either. For me, sustainability is ultimately about flow, about a kind of continuity of energy that circulates relatively evenly. I’d like to unlock that door soon.

[Amy]: I agree completely. Sometimes I wish the world worked on the barter system. We’ll teach you how to make tiny books and you’ll give us a chicken to roast for dinner. Or in exchange for a teeth cleaning and dental hygiene check up, we’ll facilitate a rocking party for your 9-year-old. The bigger jobs are coming, we’re working on the right relationships with partners, schools, and community leaders, but in the meantime we’re watching the money flow out of the accounts and sustaining ourselves on smaller workshops and kindness. We’ve used Kickstarter to access monies from friends and strangers who want to be a part of something we’ve created, which is incredibly gratifying. But It’s hard not to let fear grab top billing on the marquee. Despite the worry, I feel incredibly lucky to have a partner in all of this whom I can count on to calm my nerves when I am freaking out and vice versa. We have an agreement that we’ll panic on different days—and so far we’ve been able to maintain that schedule!

Last but not least: What’s your biggest piece of advice for anyone who wants to do amazing work in the world, stay motivated, and unlock major doors?

[Amy]: Take care of your whole self—your body and your mind. Take breaks. Get away once in awhile and unplug. Listen. Do things that don’t look like they have anything to do with your business just to see what happens. Play. Ground yourself—literally—by paying attention to the sound your feet make on the Earth. Maintain relationships with inspiring people. Ask for help. Be the sounding board for someone else. Make time to make things with your own two hands.

[Maya]: Stay connected to who YOU are. Try to minimize the distraction of what and how others are doing. Keep the thread of your spirit and soul’s purpose intact by following the heart of what moves you. Do frequent check-ins with yourself: “Is this what I really want?” and don’t be afraid if the answer is No. In fact, if it’s not a full-on Yes, then it’s a No. Be true to your needs, but also allow for the possibility—the inevitability—that change and growth are uncomfortable. Be diligent and realistic with your commitments; you cannot promise the world to everybody, but meet the deadlines you set or agree to. Be unfailingly honest with your limitations and create—and enforce—healthy boundaries. And make sure you love what you’re doing. If you don’t, something’s wrong.

mayagrateful

how we are not alone
by Maya Stein

because a light on the other side of the street reveals
someone more insomniac than you.
because the camera made its way into the carry-on,
not for the traveler, but those staying behind.
because the daisy, its boastful yellow,
begged for a closer look.
because you found yourself being stared at
by horses.
because the church bell rang precisely at noon,
and all of the stores slid closed.
because someone else’s charcoal fire
made your own mouth water.
because you are afraid of losing him
in a crowd.
because of the mournful sound of train whistles.
because your father let you see him cry.
because a palm against a cheek 
steers the world into softer focus.
because the poplars insist on 
weathering the winter.
because of lighthouses.
because of shadows.
because of a shared memory of perfume.
because of the sound of feet on cobblestones.
because of window boxes.
because of the man spinning pizza dough
like a circus act.
because the apple tree freed itself of dessert.
because you could hear the waterfall 
from a mile away.
because she understands 
your every look.
because the martini glasses came in fours.
because the cashier’s hand grazed your palm,
despite the coins between you.
because even if the first words fail,
the next ones won’t.
because the car in the next lane signaled left.
because of the stone wall you found in the woods.
because the dog returns at a single
whistle.
because of the brilliant descent of leaves,
and the pile that beckoned the neighbors.
because a handful of blackberries saved you
the last miles home.
because the stars look as if they’re winking.

Unlocked Stories: Maya Stein and Amy Tingle: Poets, Bookmakers, and Co-founders of The Creativity Caravan

UNLOCK YOURSELF

Three questions to think about, write about—or talk about with a friend.

1. Maya and Amy recently completed a 10,000-mile adventure through 24 states to share their collection of miniature books and teach book-making workshops in libraries, bookstores, art galleries, and community arts centers. Such a grand adventure!

Is there a “grand adventure” that you have always fantasized about doing? Where would you go? What would you do? Would it be directly related to your career or business, or purely a personal trip?

2. Maya and Amy love co-running a business in addition to being married and parenting together.

Do you think you’d enjoy starting a business with a boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse? Why or why not? Or would you definitely prefer a “solo” operation?

3. Maya’s biggest piece of advice is: “Make sure you love what you’re doing. If you don’t, something’s wrong.”

Can you honestly say that you “love” your work? Are there parts of it that you love, and others that you don’t? What are some small (or big) changes that would make your work feel more fulfilling and exciting?

For more UNLOCKED interviews, click over here.

Know somebody that ought to be spotlighted? Write to me here.

See you next time for another inspiring conversation!

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Ask Ellen: Should I Bother With a Blog?

 

Dear Ellen,

I’m one of those people who has always thought, “I should really start a blog.”

I even purchased a website domain one time and got pretty close to launching a blog, but then I stopped myself. I feel like there are already millions of blogs out there… and who’s going to care about mine? And what’s the point of working on a blog if barely anybody sees it?

I don’t even really know what my question is, specifically, but… do you have any words of wisdom for me?

To Blog Or Not To Blog

Ellen Fondiler: Ask Ellen

Dear TBONTB,

The feelings of hesitancy that you’re having are very natural… and very sensible!

Before you pour a ton of time and energy into a very crowded field, it’s always wise to ask yourself:

What can I offer that’s “different” from everything that’s already out there?
What’s going to make this project worth reading/watching/sharing/purchasing?
Why do I feel called to do this, really? What’s my underlying motivation?

Think about those questions, or discuss those questions with a friend, colleague, or even a professional writing coach. You might find a lot of clarity… and you might feel renewed excitement about launching your blog and getting things rolling!

I didn’t start a blog until I was 60 years old! I considered it for many years, and I wrestled with many of the same “… but what’s the point?” feelings that you’re currently feeling, TBONTB. Honestly, sometimes, I still do! And yet, when I look back over the last few years, it’s undeniable: blogging has enriched my life in so many ways.

Here are a couple of reasons why blogging is pretty amazing—regardless of whether you wind up having millions of fans or not:

1. You will learn new things.

Every time I sit down to write a blog post or an advice column like this one, I have to research, collect facts and statistics, find inspiring quotes, and explore corners of the Internet that I’ve never seen before. Because of my blog, I learned that being a “professional, certified cuddler” is an actual profession. (Who knew?) Because of my blog, I’ve discovered job postings and grant opportunities that I’ve been able to pass along to my clients. Because of my blog, I’ve stumbled across books, podcasts, and TED Talks that have touched my life in a profound way. Becoming a blogger has expanded my world in ways I could not have imagined.

2. You will become a better communicator.

Whether you’re a dog trainer, a hairstylist, an administrative assistant, or a self-employed graphic designer, EVERY profession requires strong communication skills. Blogging consistently will make you a better communicator, which will enhance your career in so many ways. The more you write, the better you get!

3. You can support causes that matter to you.

Whether you have five devoted blog fans, or five million, you can use your blog as a “platform” to discuss issues and causes that matter to you. You can even use your blog as a place to raise money for philanthropic projects, if you want to.

Last year, Elizabeth Gilbert, Cheryl Strayed and Brené Brown (along with many others) started the Compassion Collective and raised over two million dollars for humanitarian causes. Their writing brought them fame and followers, and now, they’re using their fame to create a better world.

4. You can earn a lot of money.

Sarah Von Bargen started her blog, Yes & Yes, purely as a fun, personal writing project. Today, she has amassed such a tremendous following that she’s able to sell advertising spots and feature paid sponsors, sell e-books and e-courses, and offer blogging/online community consulting to entrepreneurs. She has built an entire career around her blog!

It can take a lot of patience to get to that point—Sarah has been blogging daily for over 9 years—but it’s possible.

5. You can really help people.

Blogging means that you’re sharing your personal stories, feelings, advice, and resources online. You have no idea who might stumble upon your blog—or how much your words might impact their life.

My friend Susan Hyatt is a great example of this. Her blog posts typically come from a very personal, emotional place. When she wrote a blog post about her teenage son’s academic struggles—and how he was almost failing out of high school, she received so many grateful emails from fellow parents. So many of them said, “Thank you for sharing your story and your perspective. I’m so glad I’m not the only one dealing with a situation like this.”

When you open your heart and express yourself online, in a public space, you never know who you’re going to help. Your words could change someone’s entire day.

There you go: five great reasons to stop worrying and just start blogging already! So, then the question becomes: How do you begin?

My advice: Just start.

Write a few posts on any topics that feel interesting to you. Don’t fret about whether your writing is “great” or not. Don’t worry about how many “fans” are reading or not.

Just dive in! Hit “publish” on your very first blog post and celebrate that big step!

As my friend Alex says, regardless of how many people are reading and commenting on your blog posts, keep going, keep sharing, and remember that you are a big deal.

TBONTB: I wish you so much fulfillment and joy on your blogging journey!

I can promise you: blogging will expand your life, often in very unpredictable ways. New job opportunities, new virtual and real-life friendships, a newfound sense of confidence in your communication skills… there’s so much that blogging can bring into life.

If you feel called to do it, then… just do it.

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Image: Willie Franklin

UNLOCKED Links: November 2016


Once a month, I curate the best links on how to find work that you love, be excellent at what you do, and unlock any door that stands in your way. Mostly, I gather articles and podcasts that capture my attention because they make me think or laugh. Here is the link round-up for November 2016!

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Ellen Fondiler | Unlocked Links: November 2016

• The story of the happiest man in the world (who also has the ear of the Dalai Lama).

• There are so many causes that compete for our money. Here is a Kickstarter campaign with historical significance and a bit of whimsy.

• While it may not always feel that way, the glass ceiling is being broken every day by a bevy of extraordinary women. Here are 50 of them.

• Ever wonder what it is like to surf under the Northern Lights? There’s a thriving surf scene in Norway’s Lofoten Islands, where the waves are cold and the air is colder.

• Do you know money basics? Here are some nuts and bolts to get you started.

• We are about to say goodbye to a First Lady who has inspired us all with her grace, beauty, courage and empathy. Here are four thank-you notes to Michelle Obama, who
has spent the past eight years quietly and confidently changing the course of American history.

• A great interview with Marie Forleo and Seth Godin. Bottom line: stop waiting for the right moment and just go for it!

• Okay, let’s talk about the election. So many articles have been written. Here are the views of 16 writers on Trump’s America. Warning: it is not pretty.

• Ever wondered how popular courses start out? Do you dream of creating a million dollar e-course? Denise Duffield-Thomas lays out the evolution of a million dollar course.

• While I have my tried and true favorites, I am always looking for great new podcasts. Here is Esquire Magazine’s list of the 25 Essential Podcasts of 2016. My favorite: Keepin it 1600. Four former aides to President Obama — Jon Favreau, Dan Pfeiffer, Jon Lovett, and Tommy Vietor — have kept me sane during the election and in its aftermath.

Happy reading and listening,

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Image: Willie Franklin.

Your Career Forecast: November / December 2016

Ellen Fondiler | Your Career Forecast for Sagittarius: November / December 2016

I work as a career and business strategist. But my secret passion is… astrology!

About once a month,  I post an overview of what’s happening in the cosmos and how it might influence your career. It’s called: Your Career Forecast.

Whether you’re job-hunting, running your own business, or wondering about the ideal time to ask for a raise or take a vacation, each Career Forecast will reveal the important dates and cosmic shifts that you need to know about.

I am joined by my dear friend, Heidi Rose Robbins, a master astrologer who will provide expert insight into what’s going on in the stars.

Let’s dive in!

OVERVIEW

What’s going on this month…

HEIDI: HEIDI: The Sun moves into Sagittarius on November 21st at 1:23pm for about 30 days. We’re moving into a fiery, goal-oriented, forward-moving time. The symbol for Sagittarius is the Archer: a mythical centaur with a bow and arrow. That’s what this month is all about: aim from the heart, straight for that bullseye, and let your arrows fly!

This is the time to dream big. Don’t worry too much about administrative minutia and fussy little details—focus on visionary things, like mapping out your goals for the next 2-5 years. Generally, when we move into the sign of Sagittarius, we tend to feel more optimistic and hopeful about building a better life and a better world. (Goodness knows: could all use some extra optimism about the disheartening election season here in the United States!)

On November 29th, there’s a New Moon in Sagittarius. New Moons are all about setting new intentions and goals. It’s a great time to quiet down, assess your life, and reflect on questions like: What truly inspires you? What calls to you? Who do you want to become in 2017? Where do you want to focus your time and energy?

On December 1st, Mars shifts into a potent alignment with Jupiter. This provides boundless energy and forward momentum. Expansion and opportunity is in the air. Three words: Go for it.

On December 2nd, Mercury moves into the sign of Capricorn. Mercury is the planet of communication, writing, and networking, and Capricorn is the sign of ambition and hard work. It’s a powerful combination. If you’re attending a networking event on this day, giving a presentation, submitting a proposal, publishing a new article, or doing anything related to communicating/sharing your message, the stars are on your side.

On December 7th, Venus shifts into the sign of Aquarius. Venus is the planet of creativity and love. When Venus is in Aquarius, it’s an excellent time for group projects and collaborations. Brainstorming powers are heightened, ideas will fly, and a feeling of community love, respect, and appreciation is in the air. Venus will stay in Aquarius until January 2nd, so we’ve got nearly a full month of this lovely collaborative energy.

December 13th brings the Full Moon in Sagittarius. Let this be your Full Moon mantra: “I see the goal. I reach the goal. And then I see another.” It’s a time to get on your horse and ride.

Finally, from December 19th until January 8th, Mercury will go retrograde. This is a good time to reflect on the old year and prepare for the new. Tie up loose ends. Clear out your email inbox. Spruce up your office. Tidy and simplify. But try to avoid launching a big new project during this time—that’s not ideal. Wait until after January 8th, if possible, before you start an ambitious new project, launch a new product, launch a new website, or anything like that. Things will sail along more smoothly if you wait until Mercury Retrograde is over.

Enjoy the month of Sagittarius! It’s certainly a time when you can make great strides towards your goals. Take full advantage!

It doesn’t get much better than that!

What does all of this mean for your career? Let’s look closer…

JOB-HUNTING?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: If you’re looking for a new job, this is a FANTASTIC time for you for several reasons. First off, research shows that most people tend to apply for jobs less frequently during December and the winter holiday season, which means if you DO apply, you’re more likely to get noticed and not get lost in the shuffle. Also, hiring tends to peak in January and February, which means if you start job-hunting in December, you’re right on track to start getting responses—and interview requests—once January rolls around, if not sooner.

Astrologically speaking, December 1st and 2nd are two powerful days to start—or expand—your job search. On the 1st, opportunity is in the air. Email a talent recruiter, or apply for a job that seems like a long shot, because who knows? You might have the passion and attitude that they’re looking for! On the 2nd, your communication skills will be extra-sharp. This is the perfect day to email your friends and family, or post an announcement on Facebook saying, “I’m searching for an amazing new job, and here’s what I can bring to the table…”

Remember: 80% of jobs are never posted online. Most jobs can only be accessed through personal connections and referrals, so make sure your friends, family, former classmates, professors, and social media contacts ALL know that you’re looking for something new. The more people that know about your job hunt, the better. You never know who might have the perfect opportunity for you—but they can’t share it with you if they don’t know that you’re searching.

ALREADY HAVE A JOB?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: If you already have a job, and you’re happy with it, I’d recommend using the New Moon energy on November 29th to think about the upcoming year and set some fresh, exciting goals.

Grab a notebook and pen, and reflect on questions like these: What’s your favorite aspect of your job? Is there a way for you to do more of that type of work—and less of the “other stuff” that you don’t enjoy as much? Who inspires you at work? Is there a way that you could spend more time with that person, or have them become your advisor or mentor? What do you want to be “known for” inside of your company? Where do you want to focus your time and energy?

Once you’ve reflected on those questions, if it feels appropriate, set up a meeting with your boss to discuss your vision for 2017. If there’s something that you’d like to try, do more of, or less of, you’ve got to ask. The worst thing they can say is “No” or “Not now.”

If you have a job, and you’re a manager or project leader, mark your calendar for December 7th – January 2nd. During that span of time, there’s a happy, loving, collaborative energy in the air, thanks to Venus sitting in the sign of Aquarius. This is the perfect time to schedule a celebratory end-of-the-year donut party, bowling party, or champagne toast for the whole team!

It’s also a great time to put your heads together and brainstorm. Consider scheduling a team retreat to refine your plans for the new year, or put a piece of blank poster board and a Sharpie pen in the break room and encourage people to suggest “anonymous solutions” for a recurring problem.

This is a great time of year to acknowledge people’s hard work with a handwritten note, a gift, a speech, or a “thank you” email to the whole squad. Embody the planet Venus, and “show the love.” When your team members feel valued, they’re more likely to speak up during meetings and contribute their ideas.

SELF-EMPLOYED OR RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: Depending on the type of business that you run, December might be a slow month for you, or it might be crazily busy. Either way, here are my recommendations:

From November 21st to December 13th, let your heart be filled with Sagittarian optimism. Shake off any negativity, disappointment, or resentment that you might be feeling about 2016, and turn your attention towards the new year. Urge yourself to dream bigger. Could you earn an additional $3K per month next year? Why not $5K? What about expanding your team? Or moving your shop to a better location? Or launching a new workshop, seminar, or class? Other people do it. Why not you?

If there was ever a time to reach higher and set your sights on a big, “next level” goal, this it it.

From December 19th to January 8th, keep riding that goal-oriented, visionary energy, but—as Heidi mentioned—try to avoid launching anything “new” during this time because Mercury will be retrograde, which is no bueno for new projects. Instead, set your house in order for a successful new year. Dump out everything in your desk drawers and declutter your workspace. Follow up with clients who haven’t paid their invoices yet and nudge them. Unsubscribe from newsletters that you never read. Deactivate social media profiles that you never use. Update your client records or customer database. Clean, tidy, and spruce, so you can stride into 2017 feeling strong, organized and clear-minded, ready for action.

After January 8th, then feel free to launch new projects and programs with gusto!

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:

November 21st – The Sun moves into Sagittarius. (We’re moving into a fiery, goal-oriented, forward-moving time, full of renewed optimism!)

November 29th – New Moon in Sagittarius. (Reflect on the past year. Set intentions for the new one.)

December 1st – Mars trine Jupiter. (Opportunity is in the air. Whatever you’re dreaming about, don’t hesitate. Go for it!)

December 2nd – Mercury moves into Capricorn. (Communication shines on this day, and hard work is rewarded.)

December 7th – Venus moves into Aquarius. (Loving, supportive, collaborative energy rules on this day, and continues flowing until January 2nd. Teamwork and group hugs!)

December 13th – Full moon in Sagittarius. (Your mantra: “I see the goal. I reach the goal. And then I see another.”)

December 19th – Mercury moves retrograde until January 8th. (Avoid starting big new projects during this time. Instead, tidy, spruce, tie up loose ends, and set your house in order for a successful new year.)

YOUR CAREER MANTRA FOR THIS MONTH:

“I’m not afraid of dying. I’m afraid of not trying.” —Jay-Z

Jay-Z.
Tina Turner.
Ludwig Van Beethoven.
Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first female Muslim-American athlete to win an Olympic medal.

They’re all born under the sign of Sagittarius, and they’re all strong, goal-oriented, visionary examples of the Sagittarian spirit. Big dreamers who aren’t afraid to say:
“I want to achieve more, and I can, and I will.”

It’s so easy to get stuck in old ways of thinking, like “This is just how my company works” or “That’s just how it is in my industry” or “That’s not possible in my line of work.”

Try to break away from that type of thinking, especially this month. Dream expansively. Reach higher. Aim your arrow towards a brand new goal. Sagittarians are daring and adventurous—so, charge after your goals with your whole heart. Even if you fail spectacularly, you’ll be an inspiration and a role model for the millions of people who are too scared to even try.

Have an amazing month!

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Learn more about my career & business coaching services here.

Learn more about Heidi and her astrological services here.