​As the world continues to change at an unprecedented pace, it's becoming increasingly clear that leaders with a certain temperament may be better suited to handle this new reality. I'm talking about introverted leaders.  Yes, you heard that right. In a world that's often extrovert-dominated, it's time to recognize the unique strengths of introverts and the vital role they can play in times of uncertainty, change, and chaos.

First, let's define what we mean by "introverted leaders." Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not necessarily shy or anti-social. Rather, they simply have a preference for quieter, more introspective environments and tend to recharge by spending time alone. This preference can manifest in a range of behaviors, such as listening more than speaking, thinking before acting, and valuing deep connections over superficial ones.

Now, why might this be an advantage in today's world? Let's consider some of the challenges we face:

• Rapid Change: The pace of technological advancement, globalization, and social upheaval has left many feeling disoriented and uncertain. Introverted leaders, with their tendency to reflect and think deeply, may be better equipped to navigate these complex issues and make thoughtful decisions.
• Increased Complexity: With so many factors at play, it's often difficult to understand the root causes of problems and come up with effective solutions. Introverted leaders, with their ability to delve into complex topics, may be better able to make sense of this complexity and find innovative solutions.
• Need for Empathy: As the world becomes more diverse and interconnected, empathy is becoming an increasingly important leadership trait. Introverted leaders, with their tendency to listen more than speak and value deep connections, may be better able to understand the needs and perspectives of others.

Every leader, regardless of temperament, brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the table. It's time to recognize the value of introverted leaders and work to create more inclusive environments that value their contributions.

Often overlooked in a world that values extroverted personalities and charismatic leadership styles, here are the Top 10 Strengths of High Achieving Introverts:

1. Deep listening skills: A crucial skill for leaders. They can take the time to truly understand the needs and concerns of their team members and make informed decisions based on that understanding.
2. Thoughtfulness: They take the time to think through decisions and consider multiple perspectives before taking action.
3. Creativity: Introverts often have a rich inner world and can be highly creative. They may come up with unique solutions to problems or bring fresh perspectives to projects.
4. Focus: Introverted leaders can be highly focused and disciplined, which is critical for achieving goals and staying on track. They can also help their team members stay focused and avoid distractions.
5. Humility: They tend to be more humble and modest than extroverted leaders. They are often more willing to acknowledge their mistakes and learn from them, which can make them more effective in the long run.
6. Empathy: Introverted leaders are often highly empathetic, which allows them to connect with their team members on a deeper level. They can be more attuned to their team's needs and emotions, which can help create a positive and supportive work environment.
7. Authenticity: They are often more comfortable being themselves and not putting on a show for others.
8. Independence: Highly independent and self-sufficient, they don't need constant attention or feedback from others and can work well on their own.
9. Patience: They tend to be more patient and willing to wait for the right moment to take action. They don't rush into decisions or try to force things to happen, which can lead to more successful outcomes.
10. Reflection: They often take the time to reflect on their experiences and learn from them. They can use this introspection to continually improve their leadership skills and become more effective over time.

By embracing their natural tendencies and leveraging their strengths, introverted leaders can create a positive and supportive work environment that helps their team members thrive.

Are you a high achieving introvert who feels like something is missing in your life or career? Do you often find yourself feeling overwhelmed and undervalued despite your successes?
As a coach, I'm passionate about helping high achieving introverts like you overcome obstacles and reach their potential.

Let's explore what's possible when you get the support and recognition you need to thrive. Use the link below to book a discovery session. 
I look forward to hearing from you!

​Michelle
https://calendly.com/michelleburnscoach/30-minute-discovery-session


Michelle Burns
Transformation Coach, since 2001

​Personal Growth:
Coaching can be a game-changer for personal growth. It will provide you with the guidance and support needed to be your personal best. Your coach can help you identify strengths and areas for improvement, set achievable goals, and develop a plan to achieve them. Through regular coaching sessions, you’ll gain clarity on values and priorities, which will help you make better decisions and take action towards your goals.
 
Coaching Can Also Help You:

• Develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence. 
• Better manage your emotions and communicate effectively, while gaining self-esteem and confidence. 
• Provide feedback on your communication style, behavior, and mindset.
• Understand how you are perceived by others and improve your relationships.  
• Transform fear, uncertainty and doubt into clarity, motivation and confidence.
• Make better decisions and save time by focusing on highest priorities.
• Get clear about what is most important to you and set healthy boundaries that allow you to stay focused and achieve your goals.

Professional Growth:
Accelerate progress professionally by developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your career. Your coach can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, set goals for career advancement, and develop a plan to achieve them. You can also develop leadership skills, communication skills, and other skills that are essential for career success.
 
Coaching Can Also Help You:

• Navigate challenging situations at home and work.  
• Provide support and guidance during times of change, such as a job transition, promotion, or career change.  
• Develop resilience and adaptability, which are critical skills for success in today's rapidly changing work environment.
• Provide you with the accountability you need to achieve your goals. By providing regular check-ins, support, and feedback. 
• Stay on track and make progress towards your goals. 

• Use what’s going on in the outside world as fuel to thrive. 

• Overcome procrastination and self-doubt, while staying motivated to achieve your goals.

In Conclusion, coaching can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. It can help you identify your strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve your goals faster than you would on your own. Whether you are looking to advance your career, develop new skills, or improve your personal life, coaching can provide you with the support and guidance you need to succeed. 
 
Most Coaches Offer a Discovery or Clarity Session.  This is not a sales call.  It's an information gathering and sharing session that will help both of you make a decision whether you are a good fit for a coaching relationship.  You are hiring the coach, you are doing the interview. Bring your questions to the session and make sure the coach you are speaking with is qualified and skilled to support you with your particilar needs.  

With every challenge comes an opportunity, and by staying positive and focused on solutions, you can find the silver lining in even the most difficult situations.

1.  Flexibility and Adaptability One of the most important skills to have in a time of volatility and uncertainty is flexibility and adaptability. Things can change rapidly, and you need to be able to adjust quickly to new circumstances. This means being open to new ideas and approaches, and being willing to change your plans as needed.

2. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity. It is an essential skill to have in times of volatility and uncertainty because there will inevitably be challenges and obstacles along the way. Resilience means having a positive outlook, staying focused on your goals, and being able to persevere in the face of adversity.

3. Creativity and Innovation In times of volatility and uncertainty, it is often necessary to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems. This requires a certain level of innovation and creativity. By being open to new ideas and approaches, you can find new ways to solve problems and overcome challenges.

4. Agility and Speed In a rapidly changing environment, agility and speed are critical. You need to be able to move quickly and make decisions fast. This means being able to prioritize effectively and make decisions under pressure. By being agile and responsive, you can stay ahead of the curve and take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.

5. Collaboration and Networking In times of volatility and uncertainty, it can be helpful to collaborate with others and build strong networks. By working together, you can share knowledge, resources, and expertise. Networking can also help you stay connected to others in your industry and keep up-to-date with the latest developments.

6.  Professional Support  A good transformation coach can provide support and guidance as you navigate difficult times. They can also help you develop new coping strategies and work through any underlying issues that may be contributing to your challenges.  Coaching Accelerates Progress!

7. Manage Emotions: It's natural to experience difficult emotions, such as anxiety, anger, sadness, frustration, and disappointment but you don't want to get stuck there.  Learning to manage emotions can help you to feel more resilient in the face of stress.

8. Vitality and Physical Health  Taking care of your physical health can help you to better manage stress and give you the energy needed to overcome challenges and stay the course. This can include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise.

In conclusion, thriving in a time of volatility and uncertainty requires a combination of skills and qualities, including flexibility, resilience, creativity, agility, and collaboration. By developing these skills and cultivating these qualities, you can navigate through tough times and come out stronger on the other side. 

by Michelle Burns, Transformation Coach 
​Mindset and Emotional Resilience Coaching since 2001

​Emotional Wealth
 
Emotional wealth is the foundation of a happy, joy-filled, successful life.  You can't buy it; it’s not out there, it is an inside job.   The most desired emotion people seek is happiness - what they are really seeking is Joy.  Happiness is a present moment emotion; joy is a deep internal state of wellbeing. Those who have emotional strength experience joy and lasting success; not as an event but as a journey.  
 
Power is an emotional game.  Not power over others, real authentic power.  If you don’t feel good emotionally, you’re not going to be able to live the life you want to lead. And much of the challenge lies in the fact that we are hardwired to avoid pain, out of a fear of vulnerability and death.
 
"Something is missing!"
Do you feel that?  Are you at that stage in your life where you’ve worked hard, and smart to acquire, accumulate, advance, obtain; year after year only to be left with the feeling that something is missing?  You are not alone.
 
“Yes, I was happy when I got that promotion, when I got married, bought the big house, had children, achieved my ideal body weight, but it didn’t last.”
 
The pursuit of happiness is an elusive dream. Monetary wealth, corporate upward mobility, and the acquisition of things do not bring happiness, meaning or fulfillment.  Now What?
 
Emotional wealth can lead to a deep internal state of Joy.  Yes, it is available for everyone if you are prepared to cultivate it.  Like everything that’s worth having, it takes willingness, commitment, and perseverance but the rewards are well worth the effort.
 
Some people fear that if they start doing the inner work, they will become emotional, they will be vulnerable and weak, they will have to sit in the therapist's chair for endless hours talking about their past or that they will lose everything they have acquired in the external world.  No, no, no and no.  
 
What actually happens is that you become less “attached” to the material things, more connected to yourself, aligned with your purpose and your truth, and it's like tapping into a superpower.  You have a better connection with yourself and others, relationships improve, and you create space to enjoy your success more.  I’ll write an article on attachment in the near future.
 
Personal Transformation and Emotional Wealth bring meaning, purpose, fulfillment, and Joy!  THAT is what’s missing!
 
Following are common traits of emotionally wealthy people: Everyone can experience emotional wealth. For some, these traits come naturally; for the majority, they are cultivated by developing certain skills they commit to learning and practicing because they know their life satisfaction depends on it.
 
1. Self-aware
Self-awareness is the strongest predictor of overall success; it is the key to emotional wealth. Emotionally wealthy individuals have the capacity for introspection; monitoring thoughts and emotions as they arise, which allows them to act consciously rather than react passively.  For this reason, they enjoy a greater depth of life experience.  They are more discerning than judgmental and are more likely to be compassionate of others, making them successful leaders.
 
2.  Meditators
Emotionally wealthy people meditate regularly.  This is how most of them cultivate self-awareness and inner strength.  Meditation will move you away from the busyness and negativity of your mind and into a direct experience of your most authentic, powerful Self. In a state of presence you are available to have a direct experience of consciousness; authentic power, freedom and creative brilliance, innovation and joy! 
 
3. Self-Respecting
Emotionally wealthy people know their value; they have learned to accept and approve of themselves and do not need the approval of others.  They are not attention seekers; they may enjoy the spotlight but they do not need it to boost their self-esteem or prove their worth.  They are confident, they command respect and because of their ability to authentically connect with others, they are natural leaders.
 
4. Emotionally Resilient
The emotionally wealthy have a deep inner strength, the result of an unwavering commitment to the truth. They face everything and avoid nothing. They are able to identify, acknowledge, and process the full range of emotions; intense heavy emotions and uplifting positive emotions, knowing that you cannot have one without the other.  Stress, challenge, and trauma might play a part in their story but it does not become part of their identity. They know how to be in the present moment without judgment or avoidance; it takes practice, but it is a powerful form of resilience-building.
 
5. They Let Go
Emotionally wealthy individuals know that emotions do not cause pain; resistance causes pain and stagnation.  They LET GO of trying to change, fix, avoid, alter or get rid of emotions.  They deal with facts and feelings; not stories, interpretations, assumptions or judgments. They experience reality as it is and open to opportunities and possibilities to grow from every challenge they face.
 
Emotionally wealthy individuals have learned to bare their uncomfortable emotions rather than react to them.  Sitting with life's uncertainties allows them to reveal valuable and useful insights. They know that happiness is not a given, it is a creation.
 
6. Own Who They Are
Emotionally wealthy individuals honour themselves and their values; they do not compromise who they are or what they believe in for anyone. They do what they do in life because they feel passion. They are not inclined to slow down, change or stop being who they are to please others or avoid conflict.  They are not concerned with being liked; self-respect is more important to them and for that reason, they are often respected. They remain true to their values, vision, and purpose.
 
7. Courageous
Emotionally wealthy people are not afraid to go after what they want. They consistently step outside their comfort zone and patiently work through fears and self-doubt.  These individuals choose to show up fully and bring their personal best to everything they do, they commit to excellence, not perfection.  They know that change is uncomfortable; they do it anyway because exploring their edge makes them feel alive and allows them to evolve, realize more of their potential and make a greater contribution. 
 
8. Keen Observers of People
They deliberately keep the company of others who are inspiring, honest, committed and consistently evolving in their lives. They don’t have all the answers, they are more interested in what they do not know because that’s how they evolve. They value the input and wisdom of other intelligent, creative, emotionally wealthy people. They are aware of individuals who may be controlling, manipulative, insincere, playing games or have a personal agenda.  They may or may not call them out but they will never tolerate them for long.
 
9. Authentic
Emotionally wealthy people aren't afraid to be transparent, real or vulnerable. They have the courage to show the world who they are. They let people in because they know all good relationships are based on the qualities of openness, honesty, authenticity, and integrity.
There are no guessing games with these people. Others know exactly where they stand with them.  They are known to speak their truth with kindness. (Truth without kindness can be mean) and they are kind.  Emotionally wealthy individuals expect the best from others and give the best of themselves at all times.
 
10. Good Listeners
Emotionally wealthy individuals are good listeners, they know how to listen with the intention to understand, not to react or respond. They know how to be with adversity and when to ask the right questions or offer encouragement.  They can draw out the strength in others and support them to solve their own challenges.
 
11.  Humble
Emotionally Wealthy individuals are humble.  They have a vision that goes beyond their own self-interest, they encourage collaboration over competition, they draw out the best in others and are more likely to express appreciation and acknowledge contribution.  They are able to accurately assess their own strengths and weaknesses, they do not view themselves and superior or inferior knowing both are out of balance perceptions that interfere with their power.  They ASK:  questions when they don’t know; for support, mentoring, or coaching because they are life long learners and committed to being their personal best.
 
If maximum evolution occurs at the border of chaos and order then emotional wealth is a measure of the amount of time it takes to move from chaos to order.
 
Who could you be with the support of a coach?
 
We all have complex lives. You and I are each unique individuals juggling our own set of important priorities. And if you really want to get clarity as to what’s the next right step for YOU - it takes another person - a coach - to understand what’s on the table for you.
 
When you get a coach who understands you, they can really help you select your priorities and find the path of action that's right for YOU.
 
I would like to invite you to a Free 30-Minute Clarity Session, this is not a sales call.  It’s an opportunity to get clear about how you can move toward more personal power and emotional wealth.   This link will expire December 27th.  Book now!
 
https://my.timetrade.com/book/SWYLJ
 
 
I found an excellent article:  “If Humble People Make the Best Leaders Why do We Fall for Charismatic-narcissists?”
 
https://hbr.org/2017/04/if-humble-people-make-the-best-leaders-why-do-we-fall-for-charismatic-narcissists

10 Tips to Make Your Life Better, Starting TODAY!

Be Grateful for What You Have. Make a list of 5 things you are truly grateful for, and then (this is the most important part)  write down WHY you are grateful for them.  When you stop to remember what you have instead of worrying about what you may not be getting, it changes your perspective for the better.  Gratitude brings you into the present moment and connects you to your heart and soul. 

Start Your Day the Night Before.  Review your day and, without judgment, acknowledge what went well and what didn't go so well. Set an intention to do it differently next time. Make a list of what you will do tomorrow.  This allows the subconscious to work on things while you sleep.

Be Ready to Grow Up.  You can't control what happens but you can control how you handle it. Look at the facts, without judgment and be clear about the approach that will bring you to the best possible outcome.  Take Action.  Take responsibility for yourself and the way you address the challenges in your life.  Handle Change Like a Master!

Change Your Mind and Your Attitude.   The only thing standing between you and life you truly want is thoughts, beliefs, and blocked emotions.  If things are not going your way ask yourself, "What do I believe about myself or this situation that is creating this outcome? What would I need to believe and how would I need to feel to create the outcome I want? Get this right and it will literally blow your MIND how quickly you can turn things around. 

Don’t Ignore Your Emotions, but remember that feelings aren’t facts. If you want to experience a transformation (if you want your life to be better, you do) you would be wise to learn how to identify, and clear blocked emotions.  This step the often overlooked and it is THE PLACE where most progress can be made.  Where Real Change can take place.  Emotions need to be honored—they don’t have to be justified—but just because you have a feeling doesn’t mean that you are right.

Watch Out for Negative Thinking.  Sometimes we get into negative feedback loops and don’t even know it. Those negative thoughts are created by beliefs which create negative emotions which cause you to behave in ways that sabotage your success in all areas of life. You can change your mind, you can release those negative emotions, you have the power to get yourself out of a negative feedback loop.   Look at the facts, acknowledge how you are feeling, allow yourself to experience the emotion, breathe and be with it - you'll be surprised how it will dissolve. 

Set Up and Stick to a Routine. We are creatures of habit; and good habits, such as getting regular exercise, make us feel better. Maintaining good habits also helps us feel that we have some control over our lives. Just do it.  Focus and work in 90 minute intervals.  Take a 15 minute break, get a glass of water, some fresh air, do a few sun salutations, then focus for another 90 minutes.  You'll be amazed at how much more you will get done and you'll be more efficient. 

Let Go of Your Resentments. We all have them and they are a big barrier to your happiness and progress in life. List the five closest people in your life, then list five things you resent about each of them.  You'll find them.  This is not about them, it's about you. Parents,  partners, peers, children, employees, colleagues...resentments take up too much psychic space to allow us to function properly. Set a clear intention that you are ready to release these resentments and set yourself free.  Let them Go!!

Know Who You Really Are, and learn to honor yourself.   What is most important to YOU? What is your Life's Purpose?  What are your deepest core values?  What brings you joy?  What breaks your heart?  Never compromise your personal values and always strive to be The Best Version of YOU!

Enjoy a Part of Every Day.  When you are living your Life's Purpose you will naturally enjoy each day more.  You'll create more of those bright moments, every day.  Make a point of seeing some good in every day, and you will change your life.

Handle Change Like a Master!

To Your Brilliant Future!
With Gratitude and Grace,

Michelle  

​You know that beautiful, aligned, quiet space you experience at the end of your yoga class, I can teach you how to bring that experience into your daily life.  

I fell in love with yoga because of that elusive state of presence that I would experience in, and for a shot time after the class.  Sadly, I would leave the studio and my to do list would drop down, my mind would start racing, my phone would start ringing, and I would re-engage with all the stress and tension I had before the class.  

Inner alignment and outer resonance.  Deepen your yoga practice and stand in an empowered relationship to life.
The purpose of yoga has always been to bring about a transformation in the person through the transcendence of the EGO.  All this talk about EGO...if you are going to transcend it, you'll need to know how to identify it, how it is plant out in your life, and then untangle it's grip to experience more FREEDOM. 

Yoga in service to your ego is shallow and empty, just stretching, exercise and look what I can do, and it must mean that I'm special, better than....  Yoga in service to your authentic self is healing, aligning, alive and will bring you in touch with your passion, purpose and real power, your sexual essence.

The practice of yoga has less to do with how flexible you are and more to do with how much you understand and can align with the essence of yoga.   Yoga teachers and students will benefit greatly from this information.
 
By putting your attention on the inner alignment, you will change in many ways.  You'll be able to differentiate between ego and authentic self which will allow you to make better choices.   You'll live life in a more conscious way, aligned with your values and purpose and more present to experience meaning, happiness, joy. You'll be less reactive and more available to respond to life with clarity, certainty, and confidence.  You can focus on your highest priorities, and that will lead to you having what you want.  You'll start to know yourself in a way you can't even imagine right now.  You'll feel all your emotions and have a deeper connection with yourself and others; your relationships will improve.  Handle challenges more efficiently and confidently. You won’t depend on outcomes to feel happy or satisfied.  You'll gain traction, move forward and live the life you are meant to live.  You will be more open to RECEIVE!!     

Do others expect you to be on fire, happy, filled with joy and love at all times?  Are you suffering in silence because you expect that of yourself?  I know that I did.  My commitment to the physical practice of yoga brought forth all the areas of my life that were not in alignment with my truth, my purpose, and my BEING.  My willingness to consistently address those issues has allowed me to develop personally and stay in the flow.   A high functioning, aligned human being is physically fit, mentally focused, emotionally balanced and spiritually aligned.   The yoga you practice on the mat, if practiced with awareness, will bring you closer to your true nature and will illuminate the aspects of yourself that are no longer serving your highest good.  With the right tools, this is great news.   I spent many years addressing these issues and would be honored to support you in doing the same.  

We all have an accumulation of unresolved emotions that interrupt or block the flow of life force and the movement of life.   You will understand how to use those emotions to deepen all your relationships, starting with the most important one, the relationship with yourself. 

There are an estimated 30 to 40 million people on the planet right now practicing yoga.  Most of them are practicing in a superficial way; this is an opportunity to take your next step, to go deeper.   We are all in this together, as you go deeper in your practice, your presence has a positive impact on everyone in your life.

Inherent in every challenge is the POTENTIAL for growth, IF you know how to use the challenge to transform.  Most people miss the most important steps in this process and fall back into old habits and patterns.  I’m going to show you EXACTLY how to move beyond your edge and open to something greater.

I’m going to take you through a simple but powerful process that will allow you to experience for yourself how to turn every challenge into an opportunity for transformation and development.

Yoga wakes you up to the connection with your creative intelligence, your most authentic self, and Transformational Life Coaching offers the structure and direction for your development. It is the perfect partnership.

How Awake, Alive and Connected are YOU Ready to BE?

To Your Brilliant Future!