As a professional coach, I notice there are certain times when the topics my clients want to discuss seem to be sending me a message. When I find myself coaching three or four people in a row about the same challenge, I often start seeing it as something I, too, might need to look at…
We see and hear a lot of recommendations for how we can not only improve ourselves but also find balance in an increasingly frenetic world. But not everyone is ready to practice yoga or begin mindfulness training. So I’m going to share something I often suggest to clients when they feel as if they are…
We all have something in common—no matter what you do for living, what your social status or job is, whether you’re an executive or executive assistant—life seems to move way too fast. If only you could finish the last email or get that important project started then everything would be okay. If you just get…
Dear Madeleine, I am a leader who is conscientious, caring, and committed. Now, at the middle of my career, I find myself becoming a bit resentful of working long hours. I am constantly in danger of losing my PTO and yet the stress of preparing to be off work, along with the avalanche of work…
I have recently resumed coaching an exceptional leader after a six-month break. In our first post-break coaching call, she updated me on some significant changes she has made at work. In a nutshell, she has achieved clarity on standards for herself and her team. To uphold these standards she has eliminated unproductive meetings and is…
Lowering your stress level—it’s a fact of life many coaching clients want to address. The sheer busyness of people’s day-to-day work lives causes many to feel stressed out, overwhelmed, and ill equipped to deal with situations that come their way. This past week, a client came into a coaching meeting feeling just that way. She…
From time to time, I think about learning events I’ve particularly relished. I fondly recall seeing great presenters I admire or learning about a topic I’m committed to. The most profound takeaways I have from this investment of my time and attention are often simple statements I carry forward and integrate in my life. For…
Dear Madeleine, A long-time employee I really liked and respected recently left for another opportunity. I tried to keep her but couldn’t offer her enough money, so I gave her an excellent reference. The whole team was sad, and off she went with a fond farewell. Surprisingly, while training her replacement, I was stunned to…
Dear Madeleine, I’m not sure what my exact problem is, except that I am in a constant state of overwhelm. I have a wonderful job that I love, with a great boss who gives me plenty of challenging opportunities and always has my back. My employees are all excellent and hardworking. I have a lovely…
Dear Ask Madeleine readers, It is coming up on one year since I started this column. On the occasion of the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to take a moment to thank you so very much for checking the Ask Madeleine post every Saturday. In my travels to conferences and gatherings, I have met a few…