When you show initiative, you do things without being told; you find out what you need to know; you keep going when things get tough; and you spot and take advantage of opportunities that others pass by. You act, instead of reacting, at work. Organizations want employees who can think on their feet and take action without waiting for someone to tell them to do it. This type of flexibility and courage is what pushes organizations to innovate.

Cognitive entrenchment is doing things the way you’ve always done them. Organizational Psychologist Adam Grant says, “In a changing world, you have to be willing and able to change your mind. Otherwise, your expertise can fail, your opinions get out of date, and your ideas fall flat.” Think like a scientist- favor humility over pride and curiosity over conviction. Surround yourself with people who can challenge your process, not just the ones who agree with your conclusion.

“The 5 Second Rule is simple. If you have an instinct to act on a goal, you must physically move within 5 seconds or your brain will kill it.  The moment you feel an instinct or a desire to act on a goal or a commitment, use the Rule.  When you feel yourself hesitate before doing something that you know you should do, count 5-4-3-2-1-GO and move towards action.” ~ Mel Robbins

Emotional regulation is a learned skill, and one of the pillars of emotional intelligence.  It’s the ability to take in information, maintain your composure in proportion to the experience, and effectively communicate your needs to others.  Emotional regulation is a practice of cultivating a sacred buffer of time between feeling the emotion and your reaction to that emotion. For example, pausing to collect your thoughts before you respond.  It can also mean waiting until you’re in a supportive setting to process tough feelings.  Emotional regulation is an important tool for mental well-being in general and to protect and establish healthy relationships.

When this skill is honed, it can help you:

• feel balanced and in control of your emotional reaction
• stay calm during challenging situations
• better manage stress
• protect important connections
• actively listen to the needs of others
• express your needs in constructive ways
• remain professional in work situations
• not take things personally

People often use “we” to express their own point of view, implying that they are putting forth an opinion that is backed by (invisible) others.    “We don’t like the direction the company is headed.”

 Pretending to represent others’ opinions is a form of criticism from the cheap seats.  Whereas there may or may not be others with the same opinion, speak for yourself and let others do the same. ~ Brene Brown