communication Archives

Splash Into Calm: Procrastination

Posted by Ellen Sichel on October 24, 2012

Procrastination is one of the most common issues many of us struggle with on a daily basis.

We cannot be great at everything and often use our weaknesses as excuses to quit, rather than cultivate our strong points. Let me give you an example. When I began to write my book Splash Into Calm, I knew that my strength is not writing. My children and husband have a sophisticated command of the English language that I lack. I almost quit before I began, until my wise advisor reminded me that there are trained professionals who can fill in where I lack skill. What I do possess is knowledge and experience of the practices and philosophies contained in the book. I also have my own style of effectively communicating concepts that stay true to my voice and those I want to reach. As I continue to forge forward, I dive in deeper and hone the skills that are already inherent within.

There are always options available to us. We can get help or hire someone to do the parts that either we do not want to do or are incapable of accomplishing, so the only thing that holds us back is fear.

Life is meant to be enjoyed and taking baby steps will transform your procrastination to momentum, and replace fear and anxiety with a sense of inner freedom.

Let me know in the comments below how you deal with procrastination. If you procrastinate, what do you think is the cause?

Tags: anxiety, communication, fear, inner freedom, procrastination

Posted in: A Calm Perspective

Mistakes Happen

Posted by Ellen Sichel on January 26, 2012

When I first began posting blogs, I made a spelling error that spellcheck missed. A reader sent me a message correcting my error, which I am grateful for but the way it was communicated was sarcastic and rude.

I wonder why the individual felt that approach was needed? What would have been much more effective was a simple, clear compassionate message. Usually when a person is sarcastic and rude with others, they treat themselves the same way.

Mistakes happen to us all. It is an opportunity to learn and grow, rather than get stuck in the downward spiral of negativity.

When input is communicated in a positive, solution based manner we are much more receptive. The practice of kindness when you or someone else makes a mistake will go a long way.

Let me know in the comments below how you react to mistakes. Can you make a shift to kindness and compassion?

Tags: communication, grateful, growth, kindness, mistakes, solution

Posted in: A Calm Perspective

Avon Team Building Sessions a Success

Posted by Ellen Sichel on August 3, 2011

Challenges:

Creative avenues to explore to increase sales and support employees overall health and wellbeing.

What was Presented and How it Helped:

Custom Calm tailored two mind-body sessions for our team-building conference of over 100 employees. They engaged the rather reluctant group in simple practices to adapt into their workday. After the first few minutes Ellen and her team had our full attention and participation.

They were professional and communicated clearly with warmth and humor. They effectively integrated their presentation into the overall theme of our program. This provided continuity for the week and ensured our team was able to gain long term application from the mind-body exercises taught by Custom Calm.

I also contracted Ellen Sichel to work with my core sales team at our monthly meetings to provide mind-body techniques that targeted our needs based on excessive car travel and high stress. The sessions were presented in a clear, inviting, professional manner and Ellen inspired my team to consider how they can manage their stress throughout the day to be more productive, healthy and of course – Sell more.

What You Can Learn:

There are creative ways to present material that is relatable and inviting. The practical, simple implementation of practices including breath, yoga and meditation can be customized to meet specific needs of the client with communication that motivates and engages everyone in the room.

Tags: breath, communication, corporate health, corporate wellness, meditation, practical techniques, team building, yoga

Posted in: Technique of the Week