A What’s Next Update
I’ve taken a few months off to reflect on how I want to approach 2025 and my What’s Next. It’s been enjoyable as I’ve focused more on self-care—reading for learning and fun, working out daily, strengthening my meditation practice, and talking to folks about their What’s Next
.
One 20-year-old Navy diver, going out on deployment soon, told me that he is learning more than the technical issues of his role but how to be successful in his role. “that,” he said, “will serve him my whole life.” A 40-year-old daughter of a friend shared that she sees that her first career will not be satisfying or will not lead to the success she wants and is looking at returning to school to get an advanced degree in a new field. A person I met at a holiday party, in response to my question of “What’s Next?” reflected that he was ready to retire and was tired of the corporate BS. His “What’s Next” is to take a year off and explore business opportunities he would run on his terms.
And then there is my wife Sheila, whose fourth book, The Art of Grieving: How Art and Art Making Help Us Grieve and Live Our Best Lives, was recently published. She is out on the literal and virtual trail, sharing her incredible insights on how art already plays a vital role in our personal and national grieving process. Her work as a grief advocate changes people’s perspective on how grief becomes a gift. I’m sure she’s percolating her What’s Next, even as you read this.
Let me know what your What’s Next is and how I can help you achieve it.
What We Say Matters
Demi Moore recently accepted her first Golden Globe award for Best Actress for her performance in The Substance. In an emotional acceptance speech, she reflected on how, thirty years ago, a producer labeled her a “popcorn actress,” implying she lacked the depth to be taken seriously. Moore admitted she believed that narrative for much of her career, to the point where she thought her time in Hollywood was over. But when the script for The Substance came her way, she saw it as an opportunity to prove herself and redefine her career.
Her story highlights the power of words and their lasting impact. While it’s easy to say Ms. Moore should have ignored that producer’s comment, I’m more interested in examining what we can learn about our collective responsibility when offering feedback and criticism.
We often underestimate how our words affect others. Whether out of frustration, disappointment, or a sense of “I know better,” we sometimes speak out without considering the long-term consequences. Too often, these moments escalate conflict or take away hope, leaving one person feeling defeated and the other claiming victory—without understanding the emotional toll inflicted.
I’ve also faced moments where someone’s words stung but offered growth. A colleague once critiqued my leadership style, saying I was too quick to give answers instead of asking questions. At first, I felt defensive, but after reflecting, I realized there was truth in her comment. That feedback pushed me to shift my approach—listening more and empowering others to find their solutions. It wasn’t easy, but it’s been one of my most valuable lessons.
That experience taught me to be more mindful about how I communicate. Today, I consciously choose my words carefully, especially in my coaching practice. I focus on helping clients gain deeper self-awareness and explore more possibilities than they initially consider. I also listen attentively, letting their words sink in before offering observations. When I share my observations, I find that most of the time, they resonate and provoke the thinking I love to see in folks.
I won’t pretend I always get it right, but I’m committed to being more thoughtful and constructive. My goal isn’t to be an assassin, shooting down ideas or damaging spirits. Instead, I strive to create conversations that encourage growth and insight. I want to be an alchemist.
Offerings Coming Up
As I look ahead to 2025, I’m leaning further into this mindset. I want to expand my coaching work and create online group discussions to explore these challenges together. The journey to What’s Next isn’t just about identifying goals; it’s about developing the awareness and skills to pursue them effectively. And sometimes, that starts with examining our words—with ourselves and others.
I’m also excited to announce my new 52 Weeks of Resilience offering. This eBook includes weekly reflections and exercises designed to help you strengthen resilience, navigate change, and build a foundation for personal growth.
- Sampler Available Soon: I will share a free 5-page sampler with my community. Look out for the download link in the coming days!
- The complete eBook Launch, 52 Weeks of Resilience, will be available on Amazon for $9.95. Stay tuned for the release date.
Workshops, Groups, and Online Events
In addition to the eBook, I plan to host several workshops and online group discussions in 2025. These sessions will focus on:
- Building resilience and navigating life transitions.
- Managing career changes and planning your next steps.
- Enhancing mindful communication and self-awareness.
- Creating personal and professional goals that stick.
Look out for announcements about these events in the coming weeks. Whether you prefer a group setting or one-on-one coaching, I’m here to help you take the next step.
Thanks for sharing “What’s Next,” to your network
Richard
