Forward Focus Consulting Ltd’s Post

Life is full of ups and downs. By recognizing this shared experience, we start to feel how #CompassionConnects. Get involved during #MentalHealthWeek at https://zurl.co/FBLo

***Just Us This Week on July 18th!*** Cultural Clashes with Our Faith & Work: Time & Efficiency Thursday, July 18 7:00 – 8:00am (Doors Open at 6:45) @ Tall Rabbit Cafe + Community,  2001 Calhoun Street Americans place a high value on our time. We look at our calendars, schedules, watches, and mobile phones frequently. Our work performance and achievement of goals often directly reflect our use of time. It is important to get things done on time. We hear this often and everywhere.   In contrast, we tend to get frustrated when we believe we (or others) are wasting our time. Furthermore, we want to get things done quickly. After all, “time is money.” If we are fast, we are efficient. We save time.   Unfortunately, an emphasis on time may come at the expense of our relationships with others – and with God.   Join us for an enriching discussion on how to reframe our approach to time and to honor God and serve others in the process. Register for Free at neicfw.org/events!

One of my first questions for clients is, "Who have you seen do this aging thing well?" Our aging loved ones, friends and coworkers have valuable experience and insights that we can learn from. #agingwell #agingadvice

Next Friday, I will join 13 men and one woman in our monthly emotional intelligence check-in. It’s a place for men to be open about their lives, share the good, the bad, and the ugly, and then allow input from the group. Each month highlights the struggle or pain of a member or two; it’s an open and honest discussion that can help remove the considerable weight we sometimes carry as leaders of others. It’s a gift to be a part of something like this, and I recommend if you don’t have an outlet to discuss your true self, you seek out a group that you can trust and be your most vulnerable self. It’s a game changer and can lead you to become the best version of yourself. My next book cover has been chosen; I got input from others; some liked it, others did not. I think that’s how life works; as my Uncle once shared, “You can’t be Jesus Christ to everyone,” and I think I’ll leave you with that thought. No matter your choices in life, you will have your choir and your critics; do not expect to say, do, or engage in anything that will not be judged. But remember, the final judge is you and something bigger than yourself, and if you can own your existence, it’s a blessing. Be yourself; everyone else is taken. "Highly sensitive people are too often perceived as weaklings or damaged goods. To feel intensely is not a symptom of weakness; it is the trademark of the truly alive and compassionate. It is not the empath who is broken; it is society that has become dysfunctional and emotionally disabled. There is no shame in expressing your authentic feelings. Those who are at times described as being a 'hot mess' or having 'too many issues' are the very fabric of what keeps the dream alive for a more caring, humane world. Never be ashamed to let your tears shine a light in this world." — Anthon St. Maarten https://lnkd.in/gW-aqzrx

Life is full of ups and downs. By recognizing this shared experience, we start to feel how #CompassionConnects. Get involved during #MentalHealthWeek at https://lnkd.in/gccxJfvP

👉 In “A Walk With Everyone” by Penelope Alonso, Marielle encounters a mysterious person during her reflective journey. This enigmatic figure appears unexpectedly, guiding Marielle forward on her path. Let’s delve into the intriguing details: 📚 🍎 The Encounter: Marielle, amidst her walk through the wooded trails of Maine, stumbles upon this person. The encounter is both unexpected and profound. The mysterious individual seems to possess an otherworldly quality, as if they exist beyond the boundaries of ordinary reality. ⚰ Characteristics: The person’s appearance is not described in great detail, leaving room for imagination. Perhaps they have an ethereal aura or an air of ancient wisdom. Their voice resonates with warmth and kindness, offering cryptic yet comforting words to Marielle. 📢 Guidance and Wisdom: The stranger’s guidance is pivotal. They encourage Marielle to continue her journey, assuring her that “it only gets better from here.” Their cryptic advice to “not think about it so much” hints at deeper meanings and life’s mysteries. 🌀 Vanishing Act: Just as suddenly as they appeared, the mysterious person disappears. Marielle is left with memories of their warmth and kindness. The impact of this encounter lingers, shaping Marielle’s perspective and understanding of her own life. In the realm of magical realism, this mysterious figure embodies more than meets the eye. Their presence transcends the physical, leaving Marielle—and readers—contemplating the interconnectedness of existence and the hidden threads that bind us all. Remember, sometimes the most profound encounters occur when we least expect them, and the enigmatic stranger in Marielle’s journey is a testament to that. 🌿🌟

One of my first questions for clients is, "Who have you seen do this aging thing well?" Our aging loved ones, friends and coworkers have valuable experience and insights that we can learn from. #agingwell #agingadvice

Stories, in the form of theatre, offer much fodder for #public #health. Bertold Brecht's play, Saint Joan of the Stockyards (https://lnkd.in/gDhmxkYU), for example, shines a glaring light on the dynamics between the haves, the have-nots and those who (profess to) help the have-nots. It struck me that much of the work we do in public health, particularly in global settings, is in the role of the intermediary between elites and those whose health suffers, largely because of their living and working conditions. The main character, Joan Dark (yes, inspired by Joan of Arc), sincerely wants to change oppressive working conditions, and tries to change the behaviour of those who hold power. She even gets involved in trying to organize a general strike, but then gets really cold staying up all night, gets hungry from not having hardly anything to eat, and makes decisions that are contrary to her convictions. She isn't one of the working class folks whom she sets out to assist, and reflects on how she isn't as tough as they are. In the end, she doesn't exactly betray them but she doesn't follow through on a promise to deliver a letter to some workers. It reminded me of the dozens of times that i have seen "do gooders" in public health sincerely try to change the conditions of ill health, unwittingly going up against large corporations with deep pockets and plenty of power. In some situations, we have been able to change legislation, policy or other sweeping change that bent the arc of justice towards better health. Other times, the forces of money and power defeat efforts to improve health for all. But the optimism and hunger for healthier people in a healthier world has to persist despite the losses. Keeping this positive, hopeful spirit alive is vital for those of us who do this work. The play gave me lots to think about, as i reflect on recent work stints in various nations including Canada.

💙 Every step forward is made richer by the support we offer each other along the way. In my journey—from tackling personal health battles to crafting stories that touch hearts—I’ve seen firsthand how recognizing each other’s struggles rather than casting judgment can transform challenges into shared triumphs. We’re all navigating through something, whether it’s quiet personal battles or public professional hurdles. The moments that test us often hide opportunities to connect more deeply with those around us. By acknowledging the hardships and celebrating each victory, big or small, we weave a stronger network of support. So here’s to not just overcoming, but thriving together. To recognizing the rough patches and the wins alike. And, most importantly, to never missing a chance to extend a hand of support. Your gesture might just be the lift someone needs to keep going. Let’s continue to build a community where understanding and support are the norms, not the exceptions. Let’s make our collective journey one of growth and mutual support. You are not alone. We are in this together, and every bit of encouragement we share adds to our collective strength. 💙Power-Up #SharedJourney #SupportEachOther #ProfessionalGrowth #CommunityBuilding #Resilience