March’s Book To Live By

Unemployment rates over the last year have been some of the worst in U.S. history.

Women and older workers have been among the hardest hit. Unfortunately, that is true even in times of financial booms.

For the March podcast, I spoke with Bonnie Marcus, an author, coach, and speaker who is one of the leading voices for the empowerment of women in the workforce.

We discussed office politics around age and gender. Her insights and guidance are crucial for women at every stage of their careers.

To expand on these topics, I am happy to announce that our March Book To Live By is:

Not Done Yet!: How Women Over 50 Regain Their Confidence and Claim Workplace Power by Bonnie Marcus (*paid link).

202103_BTLB_NotDoneYet_BonnieMarcus

On the job, women over 50 are subject to what Bonnie calls “the double whammy” of gendered ageism. They face such roadblocks as dwindling responsibilities and opportunities, even as their male counterparts are still settling into leadership roles.

Bonnie alerts us to the often subtle ways misogyny and ageism surface. She then provides advice on how to reveal and defeat them.

The book is divided into three parts. In the first, Bonnie discusses the fears, beliefs, and stereotypes that can permeate office culture. These harmful, untrue assumptions undermine and silence women, leaving them feeling powerless and doubtful of their own potential.

In the second part, Bonnie outlines tips and strategies that show not only how to keep your “seat at the table” for as long as you want to remain there, but also how to be an influential advocate for all women.

Finally, Bonnie offers ways to become “your badass self,” taking control and living with confidence and joy.

I cannot recommend more highly this enlightening and savvy book that hits bookstores this week. Not Done Yet! (*paid link) will convince you there is a lot you can do to move forward with the work you love and need.

To your continuing success,

Debbie Signature

P.S. Every day at Women on Fire, we offer inspiration, useful strategies and woman-to-woman support. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining us today!

 

*As an Amazon Associate, Women on Fire earns from qualifying purchases.

What to do about the Big O?

Sorry, if I got you excited about something other than what you might have hoped for from today’s headline.  😉

Not the big O herself — Oprah.  Or the Cosmopolitan Magazine “big O” either!

The Big O I’m talking about is the one that can knock you off the path toward your goals and dreams — or at least put a damper on your day — OVERWHELM.

I receive more emails from Women on Fire about this issue than any other topic.

We all have too, too much to do.

When our cups runneth over, and fear takes charge, a panicky overwhelm sets in.

In fact, this morning when I feared I wouldn’t be able to finish all I need to do today, anxiety and overwhelm struck me and I froze in my tracks…until I did the technique I’m going to show you.

But first…

Last week, I had the delightful experience of joining best-selling author Marci Shimoff on Woman on Fire Bonnie Marcus’s farewell radio program Head Over Heels.

During the interview, which you can listen to in its entirety here (look for the AudioAcrobat link under my photo), Marci shared an exercise for bringing more love into your life.

The exercise was developed by the Institute of HeartMath, a non-profit organization dedicated to lowering stress and building our resilience.  I have followed HeartMath’s work and incorporated it into my coaching practice for years.

Marci recommends this breathing exercise to build and to open to love.

But, I’ve used this surprisingly simple exercise successfully for years when I feel scared with overwhelm.  It works for both!

Here’s how I do it.  Feel free to try it.

Recipe to Vanquish Your Overwhelm

1)   Place your hand over your heart

2)   Close your eyes

3)   Inhale and exhale

4)   See and imagine your breath coming from your heart

5)   With each breath, you can say comforting words to yourself such as “I’m OK,” “I will be fine,” “everything important will get done.”

6)   Continue for a few minutes or until you feel ready to stop

7)  Experience the feeling of peace and calm

(Please let me know how this works for you in the comments section below.)

On the recording, Marci, whose latest book is Love For No Reason, does a beautiful job walking you through this exercise.

Have a great week, free and clear of any overwhelm!

Here’s to you staying connected, inspired and motivated!

Much love,

Debbie-Signature-

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