DARKSWAN’s Post

“What you do makes a difference” (See forwarded post) Since maybe the London Olympics I have been privileged to work with, for and alongside Prof Andy McCann and DNA Definitive. It remains an amazing journey of discovery with exceptional people supporting and accessing the latest human performance factors (actually the proven stuff in hard science that do work not the made up stuff out there 😂). Recently I was delivering evidence based development around belonging and wellbeing, which also form part of a world class resilient performance course and qualification. More of that to come however the post below made me think of something that delegates have found to stick with them whilst navigating work and life relationships. In feedback it was apparent that a small point has landed hard in the “what next” sessions …… “Even if it is a small consideration, learn to always try to protect or strengthen bonds and relationships in your interactions” This deliberate act before; reply, answer, respond, request, listen, discuss, helps so much in teams and groups. Hopefully you are exploring what difference you wish to make, you are human and those around you are human so try this small consideration in your interactions and see how it helps you and those around you. I think most of us are lucky that we have the time to do this and owe it to ourselves to take a micro moment to protect bonds and future of relationships. Personally I have found it works in mission critical moments as much as an office, base or shopping que!🛒🤔 Not always easy to master ourselves but the deliberate act can become a habit that makes and exponential difference. #optimisticnun #chasethecurvemindset #challengebasedliving #challengebasedlearning DARKSWAN

🌍 Embracing the Power of Immediate Action 🌍 "How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." – Anne Frank In our rapidly changing world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenges we face. Whether it's climate change, social inequality, or personal struggles, the enormity of these issues can sometimes paralyze us into inaction. However, Anne Frank's timeless words remind us of a powerful truth: the ability to effect change is always within our reach. Every small action counts. Every kind word, every thoughtful gesture, every effort to understand and support one another contributes to a ripple effect that can transform our communities and, eventually, the world. We don't need to wait for the perfect moment, the right opportunity, or someone else's permission to make a difference. The perfect time is now. In our professional lives, this translates to seizing opportunities to innovate, to lead by example, and to foster inclusive and collaborative environments. It's about recognizing that our everyday choices and actions can create a positive impact, no matter how small they may seem. Let's harness the spirit of Anne Frank's message and commit to making a difference today. Whether it's mentoring a colleague, volunteering for a cause we're passionate about, or simply listening and showing empathy, we have the power to initiate positive change. 🔹 What steps can you take today to improve the world around you? 🔹 How can you leverage your skills and passions to make a meaningful impact? Remember, the journey to a better world begins with a single step, and that step can be taken at any moment. Let's not wait. Let's start now. #Inspiration #AnneFrank #ChangeMakers #Leadership #PositiveImpact #Community #Innovation #Empathy #ActionNow

Every step of this journey is both fulfilling and humbling. We're cultivating the soil where the roots of our work can intertwine—ensuring key sustainability factors are in place. We continually receive insights from those closest to the issues, alongside messages from potential collaborators and partners, as we grow closer together to address long-standing systemic barriers. When our newsletter was released, we were delighted to receive a resource from Lisa Attygalle at the Tamarack Institute for Community Engagement. This resource inspired the backdrop for our newsletter’s image, which beautifully illustrates the growth and development of our 'tree'. Though there was so much more we wanted to include, that’s the kind of challenge we embrace. We'll need to work on our communication plan. Thank you for generously sharing your support, knowledge, and encouragement and joining us on this collective journey of growth and change. Together, we’re making a difference. We sincerely thank you for listening, thinking, believing, connecting, sharing, learning, trying, meeting, smiling, crying, staying, and growing with us. https://lnkd.in/gt5yNVCj #EndofLife #Funerals #Cemeteries #LifeAfterLoss #Collaboration #Sustainability #CommunityEngagement #GrowthMindset #SystemicChange #Partnerships #Leadership #CollectiveImpact #Gratitude #Changemakers #LearningTogether #InnovativeThinking #SupportNetwork #MakingADifference #SocialChange

What impact are you leaving on the world? This question hit me hard at the One Day Conference for Business Consultants, Mentors, Advisors & Coaches at Belfast Met College. It echoed through the speeches from inspiring women like Michelle Lestas MBA , Chelsey Baker, and the legendary Lady Mary Peters. These women, especially Lady Mary, reminded me of the true power of legacy—how one person’s drive can ripple through entire communities, changing lives. Lady Mary Peters has dedicated her life to sport and support in Northern Ireland. Her story isn’t just one of athletic achievements; it’s about leaving a mark on people’s hearts and minds, empowering others to reach for their best. She reminded me that real impact doesn’t come from chasing success but from lifting others up along the way. This day left me reflecting on the work I do. I realised my true calling is in empowering female business owners to step into their authenticity, build resilience, and create lasting impact—on themselves, their teams, and the world. It’s not enough to simply achieve; it’s about building a legacy that lasts. So, I leave you with this—how are you creating impact? What legacy are you building, not just for your business but for your life? If you’re ready to dive deep and leave a mark, let’s work together to make that happen. Reach out, and let’s create something powerful. #Leadership #Legacy #Impact #WomenInBusiness #BusinessConsultant

🌟 The Power of Generosity in Business 🌟 In today's fast-paced business world, it can be easy to focus solely on the bottom line. But true success comes from a place of generosity—being generous with our time, resources, and intellect towards both our internal and external customers, and extending that generosity to our communities through volunteer work. When we are generous with our customers, we build trust and foster stronger relationships. Taking the time to truly listen, offering our expertise without expecting anything in return, and providing resources that help them succeed are all ways we can demonstrate this generosity. These actions create a positive impact that goes beyond transactions and leads to lasting partnerships. Internally, being generous with our teams by mentoring, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other's growth cultivates a collaborative and innovative work environment. It's about lifting each other up and ensuring that everyone has the tools and support they need to excel. Let's strive to create a culture of generosity in our workplaces and beyond. Together, we can build a brighter, more prosperous future for all. Proverbs 11:25: "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." This wisdom underscores the reciprocal nature of generosity—when we give, we also receive. #WednesdayWisdom #GenerosityInBusiness #CustomerCare #Volunteerism #Proverbs1125 #BusinessEthics #Leadership

𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐚 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐨𝐧𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐭 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝗦𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝟯: 𝗙𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝐓𝐎𝐃𝐀𝐘 | June 25, 2024, 2:00PM EDT Organized by The Chronicle of Philanthropy 𝙎𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 3: 𝙁𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖 𝘾𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙒𝙚𝙡𝙡-𝘽𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 Join The Chronicle of Philanthropy to learn from two nonprofit leaders and a consultant who are creating work environments that prioritize employee well-being. You’ll learn how to define what well-being means for your organization, create a plan to foster it, and ensure accountability so positive changes stick. Plus, you’ll get examples of smart ways to make employees feel valued and supported to ensure their success — and hold onto them. Speakers Eric D. Artis, M.Ed, SPHR, Chief Human Resources & Diversity Officer, 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 United Way Mandy Sharp Eizinger, Program Officer, 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗽𝘆 Madison Wood-Gonzalez, Executive Director, Morning Light, Inc. This series is available at no cost thanks to a generous grant from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Register: https://shorturl.at/J9F0E International registrants: If you have trouble registering, please email [email protected] or call 1-202-466-1032 and include the name of the webinar for which you wish to register. #leadership #wellbeing #retention #humanresources #inclusiveculture

Theory of Change Week 5 with the impact queen Hannah Keartland. We're starting to get more specific now and it's making a lot of sense to me. As a reminder the dent I want to make is To drive sustainable economic and skills development to underserved younger generations through advising existing businesses on the benefits to all of not focusing solely on profit. In other words.... taking money and skills and putting them where it's needed but doing it sustainably. Or even simpler...I'm levelling up for the long term. My job for this module was to create 3-5 pillars of my impact strategy. I've narrowed this down to: 🧠 Changing the finance and accounting systems to integrated thinking 🤝 Supporting those who are working to reduce suicide rates in young men 🤩 Guide existing businesses to become integrated thinkers 💸 Strengthen economies through catalysing economic activity in socio-economically deprived areas 👩🏫 Upskilling future generations Now I need to go through each of these pillars and set my strategy against them, bearing in mind what is feasible today and what would need to come later. I think 8-year-old me would be happy with this plan, although not happy it took me 45 years to work it out. #levellingup #integratedthinking #strategy

We believe that our purpose transcends self-centered pursuits and that we are here to bring meaning not just to our lives, but bring about that change and betterment to others as well - no matter how big or small our roles will be. 💙 #empoweringlives #makingimpact #shareyourheart #intentionalliving #greatnesswithin #impactfulchange

As we continue celebrating 25 years of The INS Group, our team has reflected on the key decisions and actions that have allowed us to thrive in the ever-evolving business world. Our recent blog post, "What We Have Learned About Lasting Impact," dives into these insights, drawing from our journey and the lessons we have learned along the way. I invite you to read it and discover the strategies that have helped us stay resilient and make a meaningful difference over the past quarter-century. I hope our insights help your organization navigate challenges and achieve organizational goals. Please read the blog post to learn from our experience and help your organization stay sustainable: https://lnkd.in/ey8eA5qX Here’s to many more years of creating lasting impact together!

In a world driven by technology, targets, and timelines, it's easy to forget what powers the heart of every successful endeavor: humanity. 🌍❤️ As professionals, we strive for efficiency, innovation, and excellence. Yet, it's crucial to remember that these goals are not ends in themselves but means to improve the lives of people around us. The essence of true success lies not in the accolades we collect but in the impact we make - the lives we touch, the communities we uplift, and the positive change we drive in the world. 🤝✨ Humanity - our ability to empathize, to care, and to connect - is our most precious asset. It's what transforms a group of individuals into a team, a business into a community, and a simple idea into a movement that can change the world. 🌟👥 In our pursuit of professional and personal goals, let's not overlook the simple acts of kindness, understanding, and compassion that make a profound difference in the workplace and beyond. Whether it's lending an ear to a colleague, mentoring a young talent, or volunteering in our communities, these are the moments that define us. 💼🌈 Let's make humanity our priority. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also create a ripple effect of positivity that can transcend boundaries and inspire change across the globe. 🔄🕊️ #HumanityFirst #EmpathyInAction #Leadership #CommunityImpact #BeTheChange"