Ask Ellen: How Can I Stay Focused?

Dear Ellen,

I recently started working from home, which is awesome for so many reasons. But the problem is that I’m struggling to stay focused. In the morning, I tend to putter around the house, washing dishes, cooking, tidying up, checking Facebook, or whatever, and before I know it, it’s 4pm and I’ve barely gotten any work done! Please tell me I’m not the only person with this problem. How can I get more disciplined?

Puttering Problem

Ellen Fondiler: Ask Ellen

Dear PP,

I can relate to this problem! I had to force myself to stop puttering in order to write this advice column. I’m not even kidding!

When you’re working from home, it’s inevitable—you’ll be faced with temptations and distractions that you won’t find in a typical office environment.

Without a “boss” looking over your shoulder to ensure that you’re getting things done, you’ve got to become your own boss! That’s why it’s called “self-employment,” after all. (Emphasis on the word: “self.”)

I’ve launched five different businesses and I’ve been self-employed for most of my life. Some weeks, I feel like a productivity superhero, and other weeks, I just want to curl up with Netflix or goof around with my kids and avoid my computer at all costs. I’ve learned to be gentle with myself when I’m having a “productivity slump,” and also, I’ve learned that I function best when I have some basic systems in place.

Here are a couple of things that really help me:

1. Establish a routine.

You don’t necessarily have to work from 9am to 5pm, but you do need to establish consistent “working hours” that make sense for you.

When do you feel alert and productive? For me, it’s first thing in the morning, and then I get another wave of energy around 3 – 5pm in the evening. But from about 12pm – 3pm, my energy plummets and it’s tough to get things done.

Since I know this about myself, I can organize my workday accordingly. I try to schedule client sessions and writing projects during the morning. I try to avoid scheduling big, intense projects during the early afternoon because I know it’s not the best time for my brain. Instead, I use that part of the day to take a nap, go for a walk, chat on the phone with a friend, or putter around the house.

2. Set concrete goals every day.

Every day, I pick three things I want to accomplish. I write them down on a piece of paper. (Productivity expert Leo Babauta calls these three things your MITs, or “Most Important Things.”) Then I assign a specific time slot for each item. Here’s what my list might look like:

9am. Write responses to Ask Ellen questions.

11am. Phone call with Susan to discuss GO GET IT! program options for 2017.

3pm. Email six recent clients to check in and see how they’re doing. When appropriate, invite them to work with me again in 2017.

If I complete all three things on my list, then I consider my day a success!

3. Give yourself breaks.

You’re not a machine. You’re a human being. It’s important to give yourself time to exercise, sleep, meet up with friends, and enjoy non-work-related experiences. I know so many self-employed people who are chained to their computer/phone/tablet 24/7, and who sleep poorly and feel brittle, exhausted, and burnt out almost constantly. Don’t do that to yourself! Take breaks. Remember that “rest” isn’t optional—it’s a requirement.

There are so many great books on productivity and time management for entrepreneurs. A few books that I especially love:

The 4-Hour Workweek By Tim Ferriss. Personally, I’ve never managed to compress all of my work into just 4 hours per week, but hey… it’s an inspiring goal to work towards! Talk about efficiency!

Die Empty: Unleash Your Best Work Every Day By Todd Henry. A great kick in the butt to stop procrastinating and seriously get to work!

In The Company of Women by Grace Bonney. Beautiful profiles of 100 female entrepreneurs—from all kinds of industries—who are doing amazing work. Many of the women featured in this book share their personal productivity tips—there’s so much gold inside!

Whew! Now that this column is finished, it’s time to watch an episode of Outlander and putter around in my kitchen! Haha! There’s nothing wrong with puttering—it can be meditative and relaxing—but make sure you’re prioritizing your income-generating work, first. Remember: as fun as it might be, puttering doesn’t pay the bills!

Good luck, PP, and congrats on choosing the path of self-employment! Great adventures await!

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Image: Willie Franklin

Ann Avery: Boat Captain, Sailing Expert and Yacht Broker

Ellen Fondiler | UNLOCKED Stories | Ann Avery: Boat Captain, Sailing Expert and Yacht Broker

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:

Imagine a lifestyle where… the ocean is your “office,” dolphins are your “co-workers,” and your job is to help people see the world, celebrate life to the fullest, and create unforgettable memories.

As a yacht captain, that’s exactly what Ann Avery got to do, Now as a yacht broker working from an office, the docks, and visiting clients for regattas and cruises, she still helps people create an awesome life on the water. I always love meeting people who have chosen a somewhat “unconventional” career path, and after connecting with Ann at a workshop in San Francisco, I knew I needed to interview her and find out her story.

Enjoy this conversation with “Captain Annie” about how she found her way into her unusual career, what she loves about it, what she doesn’t, and how she handles stressful moments on the job… like when there’s over 10 feet of water pooling into the bottom of the boat! (Yikes!)

Ellen Fondiler | UNLOCKED Stories | Ann Avery: Boat Captain, Sailing Expert and Yacht Broker

What do you do?

[Ann]: I’m a yacht broker, which means I help people to buy and sell yachts. Sometimes, my clients are very knowledgeable about yachting, and other times, they’re curious newbies without much sailing or boating experience. My job is to guide each client in a very personalized way, helping them to understand all of the possibilites that owning a yacht can bring into your life. Prior to becoming a broker, I was a captain/skipper for the better part of 10 years. Because of those 10 years, I know yachts inside and out. Doing that type of work gave me the foundation to do the work I do today.

What is your favorite part about your work?

[Ann]: The boats, the ocean, and the people.

When I was in my early 30’s, I sailed around the Caribbean with my 2 adult sisters, my brother-in-law and my 6-month old niece for an entire year. That’s when I first fell in love with the sea. It’s hard to imagine not working on—or near—the water. It’s been such a big part of my life.

As a broker, my favorite part is getting to know my client in a thoughtful, nuanced way. I need to know basic information—like, “What is your price range?”—but I also like to ask deeper questions—like, “What are you hoping this yacht will bring into your life?” and “What’s your vision for the future?” Based on what my client tells me, it’s exciting to find just the right boat to suit their preferences and goals. It’s like nautical matchmaking.

I also like being a cheerleader who says: “You can do this!” It’s exciting to show my clients that you really can create an incredible life on the water. It doesn’t have to be an impossible fantasy. It’s doable.

Back when I worked as a captain, my favorite part about my work was living on the water and teaching guests how to sail, swim, windsurf, snorkel and enjoy life. I loved encouraging guests to relax, have fun, and have a piña colada in the middle of the afternoon. It always felt good to know that I was helping to create a beautiful memory: a week on the water that they’d remember for a long time.

What is your least favorite part about your work?

[Ann]: In brokering, my least favorite part is detailing the listings. This entails getting a detailed list together of all the machinery (model numbers, etc.) As a captain, my least favorite part was a 24 hour turn-around where we had to clean-up the boat and prepare it for the next set of guests in such a short time.. But really, in both cases, those tasks are just part of the job. I don’t have any huge complaints. Every job is bound to include a few things that you don’t completely love to do—that’s just life!

How do you begin your day?

[Ann]: As a captain, on charter the day would usually begin with cleaning the outside of the boat. Then I’d inspect the engine room and whatever else needs to be checked out before the guests arrive and every day they are on board. There’s always a big list of things to do to get the yacht ready for departure. Never a dull moment!

These days, as a broker, I start my morning with a cup of tea or coffee, followed by some meditation. Then I do a short run or a workout at the club before officially starting my work for the day. Sometimes the preamble to my work shifts if I have to make calls to Europe very early in the morning.

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

[Ann]: I take 10 very deep, slow, meditative breaths. When you take a very deep breath, it activates the Vagus nerve, which lowers your heart rate and helps your whole body to relax.

I also remember the refrain: “Kites fly high against the wind.” Sometimes, a stressful day at work is an opportunity to demonstrate your strength and soar even higher.

What has been one of the most challenging aspects of your career?

[Ann]: There are very few female yacht captains (and female yacht brokers). It’s an extremely male-dominated profession. Many people told me all of the reasons why it wouldn’t be possible for me to become successful in this industry. In spite of this pessimistic view, I carried on. I was determined to beat the odds and listen only to the people who knew I could make it.

We’ve all seen the movie Titantic. Have you ever experienced a scary moment where you had to act quickly to keep your passengers safe?

[Ann]: I’ve definitely been in some scary situations as a captain.

One time, a guest came up from down below and said, “Annie, I don’t know if this is normal, but… I see water underneath the grate at the companionway.”

Considering I had a 10 foot draft, that meant there was a lot of water in my boat. I calmly asked my mate Alan to come below. “Where is this water coming from? We have to find where it is NOW.”

We separated quickly to look in the most logical places. Alan found the issue in the generator compartment. He’d accidentally left a hose off one of the seacocks that he’d been working on earlier, and water was pouring in. He closed the seacock to stop the water. Ahhh, relief. We kept our cool and managed to resolve the issue quickly.

If there’s one thing you learn as a captain, it’s how to remain calm and focused no matter what’s going on. Grace under fire!

As a yacht broker, I’m guessing you experience a fair amount of rejection and disappointment like a client who seems interested in purchasing, at first, but then changes her mind. Does that ever upset you? How do you handle the uncertainty?

[Ann]: It’s always discouraging when you invest time, money and energy into helping a client select a yacht… and then in the end, they choose not to purchase (at all or from you.).

I work on a commission basis, which means if my client chooses not to purchase, then I don’t get paid. There is no “A for effort,” only results.

This means, as a salesperson, I need to be very thoughtful and strategic in terms of how I spend my time.

If someone is completely committed and excited about the prospect and capable of owning a yacht, then I’m thrilled to guide them through the process.

But if someone seems uncertain and hesitant, we’ll look to see what’s creating that and if it’s not resolved, then I’ll often politely decline to continue working with them. It’s nothing personal. But the fact is, I can’t afford to spend lots of time with a client who’s probably not going to make a purchase. That’s like going to work at a company that probably won’t mail you a paycheck. It’s not wise or sustainable. This isn’t a volunteer project for me—it’s my livelihood.

Who are your personal heroes and role models?

[Ann]: Eleanor Roosevelt is someone I very much admire. She forged through many challenges in her life and did a lot of good for many people. Her philosophy—“No one can make you feel inferior except by your own consent.”—has been a reminder to never be a victim, and to take full responsibility for my life.

Lynne Twist has been a role model for me as well. She’s someone who operates with heart and walks her talk. I admire the work she’s doing to alleviate poverty and hunger, to support environmental causes and shift human consciousness to a model of unity and connection. She’s changing the world.

What’s the next door that you need to unlock—and what’s the plan?

[Ann]: I love my work as a yacht broker, and now it’s time for me to do more writing, more public speaking, and become more “visible” in my industry.

I recently launched a personal website and started a blog. I also intend to write a few freelance articles each year.

My plan is to create an “editorial calendar” for the year ahead so that I’m publishing new blog posts and photos on a consistent basis, meeting my personal deadlines and staying on track.

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

[Ann]: Navigate with your heart.

Don’t dwell on your failures—learn from them.

Adjust the course and keep going toward your destination.

You are 100% responsible for the course you sail in your life.

Ellen Fondiler | UNLOCKED Stories | Ann Avery: Boat Captain, Sailing Expert and Yacht Broker

UNLOCK YOURSELF

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

1. During stressful moments, Ann finds that taking 10 deep, meditative breaths can completely change how she feels.

What is your favorite technique for dealing with stress? How do you keep yourself calm under pressure—or is that something you’re still trying to figure out how to do?

2. Ann chose to work in a male-dominated industry, and she has faced some pessimism and push-back along the way.

Have you ever felt discriminated against—in a big way, or in a small, subtle way—at work? How did you respond?

3. As a young adult, Ann spent an entire year living on a boat and sailing with her family. That’s when she fell in love with the ocean.

What’s something you used to do with your family—like sailing, hiking, cooking, reading, volunteering, debating, etc.—that shaped you into the person you are today?

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!

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Your Career Forecast: October / November 2016

Ellen Fondiler | Your Career Forecast for Scorpio: October / November 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: The Sun moves into Scorpio on October 22nd at 4:46pm Pacific Standard Time for about 30 days.

The symbol for Scorpio is a scorpion, which might seem icky and scary, but it’s actually a symbol of tremendous strength.

As the ancient Greek legend goes, the demi-god Orion became arrogant and boastful, claiming that he was powerful enough to kill every animal living on earth. (Orion had a serious ego problem!) Artemis, the Goddess of the moon, and protector of animals, decided that Orion needed to learn a lesson. She sent a scorpion to battle with Orion—and the scorpion defeated him with a single sting.

Scorpio is all about fierceness, tenacity, and resourcefulness, even in the face of great adversity. As a Water sign, Scorpio also brings emotional intensity. You might notice yourself feeling very intense emotions during the month of Scorpio—intense anger, intense frustration, intense passion. Harness those emotions and channel them into your goals. Rather than spinning your wheels or complaining to your friends, be like the scorpion warrior—identify whatever “isn’t working” in your life and charge forward, ready for battle. Just remember: Scorpio isn’t about petty conflict, negativity, or violence. It’s about fighting the GOOD fight.

On October 24th, Mercury moves into Scorpio as well. Mercury is the planet that rules communication: how we write, speak, and express our ideas. When the energies of Mercury and Scorpio combine, we have “heightened communication abilities” plus “tenacity.” It’s a powerful combination! This is a terrific day to tackle a big problem, research tenaciously, and ask penetrating questions. It’s also a great day to negotiate—ask confidently for what you want, and if someone says “no,” switch up your approach, get back in there, and ask again. (As my friend Ellen often says: “Go back in!”)

On November 8th, the warrior planet Mars moves into Aquarius for about two months. Mars brings drive and energy, and Aquarius is the sign of collaborative creativity. It’s time to convene and brainstorm! Whether it’s a group of friends working towards a common goal, or a project at work that requires input from several people/departments, this is a potent time for collaboration and teamwork.

On November 11th, Venus moves into Capricorn. Venus is the Goddess of Love, and Capricorn represents ambition, discipline, and a desire to succeed. To me, this combination represents: falling passionately in love with your work, combined with an urge to reach new levels of success. Have you set your sights on a new summit? This month, you can climb higher than ever before. It’s a very productive time!

On November 12th, the planet Mercury heads into the sign of Sagittarius. Mercury, again, is the planet that rules communication, and Sagittarius is the Archer: adventurous and goal-oriented. On this day, say what you need to say. Let your words be like arrows of love, flying straight and true. Also: set new goals and talk about your ideas with enthusiasm. (You never know who might be willing to get involved and help move things along!)

Finally, on November 14th, there’s a Full Moon. Scorpio energy will reach its peak! Rise above negativity. Transmute fear into love. Stand strong. Fight for what matters.
Here’s your Full Moon mantra: “Warrior am I and from the battle I emerge triumphant!”
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: As Heidi mentioned, the Sun moves into Scorpio on October 22nd, bringing fierce, tenacious energy. It’s time to pursue your goal—landing an exciting new job—with the tenacity of a warrior scorpion. When setbacks arise—like a job interview that doesn’t go very well, or a big opportunity that fizzles out into nothing—trust that you CAN and WILL get through it. Just like the courageous scorpion who single-handedly defeated Orion, you’re stronger and more powerful than you think!

My advice: Be like a dog with a bone. Don’t give up. Don’t let go. Ride the Scorpio energy and be exceptionally persistent. If someone casually offers to make an introduction for you, follow up immediately and make sure it happens. If you notice a job posting that seems intriguing, apply right away and give it your best effort. If a friend promises to email you about a potential job lead, but then forgets, politely remind them. Don’t let things slip through the cracks. Follow through. Your tenacity will be rewarded.

ALREADY HAVE A JOB?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: If you’re currently employed and you really love your job, mark your calendar for November 11th. On that date, Venus (love) moves into Capricorn (ambition, drive, rising to new heights). Now’s the time to think about the “next level” of your career… Let the climb begin!

If you love your work, could you start mentoring young people who want to enter your industry? If you’ve been excelling in your current position for quite awhile, is it time to ask for a promotion? Or, could you spearhead an exciting new project at your company, like a diversity initiative, a wellness program, or a lunchtime series featuring inspirational speakers? Write down what your “next level” would look like, and go for it! Just like Alexander Hamilton sings in the hit Broadway musical Hamilton: “Rise up!”

Need some inspiration? Listen to podcasts like #GirlBoss Radio and How To Be Amazing for mind-opening discussions about business, creativity, and getting big things done.

If you’re currently employed—but not particularly happy at work—mark down this date: October 24th. That’s when Mercury moves into Scorpio. This is an ideal day to research, research, research. Think: Tenacious detective, determined to find answers!

Make a list of several changes/upgrades that could help you to feel happier at work. Maybe you could reduce your involvement in certain types of projects while upping your involvement in others. Maybe you could attend an invigorating conference, paid for by your employer. Maybe you’re tired of attending that weekly marketing meeting where nothing gets done and everyone just bickers for an hour.

Explore the situation with curiosity and try to uncover the root of your unhappiness. Consider all of the possible changes you could make. There might be a way for you to stay with your current employer while also transforming your job so that going to work feels more fulfilling.

SELF-EMPLOYED OR RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

Here’s what you need to know…

ELLEN: On November 8th, the warrior planet Mars moves into Aquarius for about two months. If you are self-employed, this is probably NOT the best time to dive into a fiercely independent project, in hermit-like seclusion, all by yourself. Instead: collaborate! The Mars-Aquarius combination creates fertile ground for teamwork. November 8th would be a terrific day to reach out to a potential business partner, add a new employee to your team, and/or start planning a community-driven project.

If you run a yoga studio, for example, you could collaborate with a physical therapist. Working together, you could plan a workshop focusing on yoga moves that are safe for people struggling with bad backs, wonky necks, and other frustrating injuries. Together, you’ll rise higher!

For inspiration, read Grace Bonney’s new book, In the Company of Women, with advice from 100 female entrepreneurs. Flip through and read a few pages whenever you need a creative boost.

I also recommend watching the film Indie Kindred. Filmmaker Jen Lee profiles ten independent artists who turn virtual connections into real-world collaborations. This film is a beautiful reminder that great projects are never born because of “just one person.” Even when there’s a project that’s primarily driven by one person’s vision—like a book—it still “takes a village” to carry it into completion.

Embrace the power of collaboration throughout November and December, and you’ll set yourself up for a profitable and exciting new year!

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:

October 22nd – The Sun moves into Scorpio for one month. (Act courageously. Be resourceful and tenacious. Seize opportunities. Be like a dog with a bone—don’t let go! Your tenacity will be doubly rewarded during the time of Scorpio.)

October 24th – Mercury moves into Scorpio. (Heightened communication skills + tenacity. Ask for what you want. Negotiate and don’t accept “no” for an answer. Or, research tenaciously to find a solution for a problem that’s been irking you.)

November 8th – Mars moves into Aquarius. (Don’t isolate yourself. Connect, collaborate, and dive into group-driven projects!)

November 11th – Venus moves into Capricorn. (Set your sights on a thrilling new summit—the “next level” of your career. Start climbing!)

November 12th – Mercury moves into Sagittarius. (Another powerful day for communication. Say what you need to say. Let your words be like arrows of love, flying straight and true.)

November 14th – Full Moon in Scorpio. (Artemis sent the scorpion on a challenging quest—to battle the demi-god Orion. What’s your quest? What’s your mission? Think about it, write about it, or have a lively discussion with your friends. Fight the good fight!)

YOUR CAREER MANTRA FOR THIS MONTH:

“There is an unseen life that dreams us;
It knows our true direction and destiny.
We can trust ourselves more than we realize,
and we need have no fear of change.”
—John O’Donohue

You might think you are small, insignificant, or not particularly influential in the grand scheme of things. But you are stronger and more capable than you realize.

During the time of Scorpio, tap into your resourceful, tenacious spirit—the part of you that instinctively knows how to solve problems, face adversity, and emerge victorious, no matter what. The part of you that won’t ever give up.

Trust yourself. Whatever challenges lay before you, even if it’s the battle of a lifetime, you have what it takes. You can get through it.

Remember, too, that regardless of what’s going on around you, there is always a way to make progress with your goals and create the life and career that you want. The stars are not running the show: you are.

With the right strategy, every door can be unlocked.

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Learn more about my career & business coaching services here.

Learn more about Heidi and her astrological services here.

UNLOCKED Links: October 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 October 2016!

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Ellen Fondiler | Unlocked Links: October 2016

• The ‘most rejected person in the world’ shares how to create work you love.

• These eleven women reinvented themselves in mid-life and never looked back!

• Great advice from Alex Franzen if you are searching for your life’s purpose.

• Don’t lie on your resume! Those little white lies are not so little anymore.

• The world’s oldest man waited a century to celebrate his bar mitzvah! At age 113, it finally happened!

• I am so going to miss having the Obamas in the White House! At least Michelle’s kitchen garden will keep blooming after they leave.

• The Boss in an interview with Terry Gross. So good.

• Speaking of The Boss, I love this letter from a fan. It shows the healing powers of music and all the ways we can impact someone and not even know it.

• Annie Leibovitz is one of my favorite photographers. Her body of work, especially of women, never ceases to inspire me.

• Another inspirational icon, Gloria Steinem looks back on a life well lived and looks forward to all the things she still wants to do.

Happy reading and listening,

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Image: Willie Franklin.

You Can Figure It Out

Ellen Fondiler | Go Get It!

You can figure it out.

A doctor, a marine biologist, and a lawyer walk into a bar… and decide to start a bakery together.

No, it’s not a joke, and there’s no punch line. It actually happened. (I was the lawyer!)

We were good friends, all with highly demanding careers. One of us was going through a rocky divorce. All of us were craving a “change of pace.” A new project, a new chapter, who knows, maybe even a whole new profession.

“Baking!” I said. “We could start a bakery together and do cookies, pies, and bread. We’re smart. How hard could it possibly be?”

Somehow this hare-brained idea became a reality. We had no culinary experience aside from baking at home, no business experience, no marketing experience, and basically no idea what we were getting ourselves into. But we were passionate, curious, and willing to research our butts off and figure it out.

It didn’t take long before we realized that running a bakery is a lot tougher than it appears. You’re not sitting around spooning chocolate frosting and cheesecake into your mouth all day long!

We had to get up at 4am to start baking, and sometimes we baked all night long in order to do early morning deliveries. Our oven and mixers broke down constantly, leading to quite a few panicked scrambles. When we weren’t kneading dough, we were pounding the pavement to spread the word about our new business. I personally marched into almost every single restaurant and hotel within a twenty-five mile radius to give them free samples and see if they’d start offering our products on their dessert menus.

It was a pretty crazy time in our lives, and by the end of each day, the three of us were coated in sweat, butter, and flour, completely exhausted, with aching backs and feet. And then—because why not make things even crazier?—we decided to open three additional retail locations. Crazy, definitely, but also deeply satisfying. We were doing it. Really doing it! Our bakery business was thriving.

When I reflect back on that time in my life, I have to chuckle. I was young, excitable, and occasionally a bit reckless. I took big risks and pursued my goals ferociously, often without really knowing what I was getting myself into. But I always trusted that I could figure it out along the way—and I always did!

I wound up starting 5 different businesses over the course of my career, each one in a completely different industry, and each time, I had to leap first and then figure things out in mid-flight.

In life, when we’re faced with a goal that’s big, daunting, or unfamiliar, we want to know “how it’s going to go” and “how it’s going to feel” and “what’s coming next.” But with certain types of goals, there’s just no way you can possibly collect “all of the answers” at the beginning of your journey. You’ve just got to leap—and trust yourself.

You’ve got to trust that you’re smart enough, that you’re strong enough, that you’re resourceful enough, and that you will be able to figure it out as you go along.

Because the truth is, you will. You are competent, and capable, and if all else fails, there’s always Google!

No matter how audacious your goal may be…

You can figure it out.

ELLEN_SIGNATURE

Ellen Fondiler | Go Get It!

If you’ve got a career, business, or income-related goal that you’d really like to achieve, don’t wait until you’ve got “all the answers” before moving forward—because you’ll probably be waiting forever! Clarity comes with action.

Check out GO GET IT!, an online coaching program that will push you to do things you’ve been putting off for way too long.

GO GET IT! graduates are lining up new jobs, launching and expanding their businesses, earning tons of extra money, and securing media attention for their work. (One just got featured in Martha Stewart Weddings magazine!)

It’s so exciting to watch what happens when you choose a goal and pursue it with one hundred percent commitment for six weeks in a row! The next session of the program begins on October 10th. You can see all the details and enroll HERE.

I love co-teaching this class—along with my amazing friend Susan Hyatt—and we’d both love to have you join in!

Top image: Willie Franklin

UNLOCKED Links: September 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 September 2016!

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Ellen Fondiler | Unlocked Links: September 2016

• This is a lovely, introspective piece from writer Dani Shapiro about how we need to embrace the good with the bad.

• Women spend so much time obsessing about body image. No one it seems is immune from that particular ringer. Too bad we can’t take all that wasted time back! Here are the thoughts of 25 famous women.

• Talking to strangers can open up interesting doors — yet all too often we pass one another without a word. In this TED article, author Kio Stark shares five ways to spark a meaningful interaction with someone you’ve never met before.

• Need some fresh career tips? Here are 15 from women we know and admire.

• Looking to work in the design field? Here are 5 design jobs that won’t exist in the future (and 7 that will grow!)

• We will sadly be saying goodbye to our amazing President. Here is a wonderful interview of Barack Obama by historian Doris Kearns Goodwin.

• Are you a coffee fanatic? For your drinking pleasure, here is a step by step guide on how to make the best cup of coffee of your life.

• From a journalist who has lived to see 19 presidential elections: why this one will be the most important.

• Find out how to figure out what to do with the rest of your life by using design thinking.

• We know the words to the songs even before we see the play. Here is an ASL performance of the song, Alexander Hamilton.

• The longer you are in business, the more important it becomes to narrow down what you want to be known for.

• I love every post by Alexandra Franzen, but this is one of my favs.

Happy reading and listening,

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Image: Willie Franklin.