Have you ever hosted a dinner party where you did it all? I mean everything. You planned the menu, cooked every dish, greeted guests, refilled drinks, cleared plates, and did the dishes while everyone else was laughing around the table. You were there, technically, but you barely tasted the food. You certainly didn’t enjoy the evening. ow, … Read more
Did you know lifestyle changes activate genes to fight cancers? That how you spend your time influences both genetic function and how you function? In his groundbreaking National Geographic piece, Michael F. Roizin makes an undeniably compelling case for leading a healthy lifestyle. He asserts that 40 percent of premature deaths in the United States are related to lifestyle choices. You will … Read more
How to use a solo trip to arrive at your true north. “One travels more usefully when alone, because he reflects more.” –Thomas Jefferson The road to clarity is challenging and insightful—unique to everyone, yet universal in its outcomes and demands. We all constantly pursue our purpose, but soul-searching is no easy task, especially when … Read more
For sound mental health, Millennials should reconsider this pervasive hobby. Today, one in five Millennials reports depression, compared to 16 percent of Generation X and Baby Boomers. If you are a Millennial, life is certainly too precious for such a somber statistic—one that demands a solution. But what can you do if you are having this … Read more
Simple changes to your daily habits will put you on the fast track to happiness. Do you find yourself just going through the motions? Has “Different day. Same story” become your mantra? Then right now—not tomorrow or next week—is the time to start changing your story. Fortunately, there are quick, simple and no-cost ways to … Read more
Instilling fun in the workplace for stress reduction and professional longevity. Can’t take a sabbatical? How about finding a playful company to reignite your drive at work and reduce your stress? Now more than ever, organizations are allowing—even mandating—their employees to play at work. Why the sudden change in strategy? While it seems a distraction … Read more
Straight talk from four business leaders in Ethiopia, Israel, and more. I’ve written extensively about charting your course in life. Defining success for yourself, on your terms, is key to living a full and meaningful life. But in a U.S. culture that emphasizes wealth, power and recognition, success based on intrinsic motivators may seem instinctively … Read more
Being flexible will save you from your virtue turning to vice. I was ‘Structured Laura’ before Glen and I moved to Costa Rica in 2006. I thrived in the corporate environment. So, when we embarked to Central America, I thought to myself, “If I can make it in fast-paced downtown Chicago, paradise will be a … Read more
Use design thinking to chart your course at any stage of life. “What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” – Mary Oliver You are a highly intelligent, dynamic and creative being (yes, you!), and the idea that you have just one purpose and path in life is, well, absurd. … Read more
Use your next vacation to transform your life and shift your mindset. Let me ask you a question. Under what circumstances do you think you would find yourself more motivated to grow—scenario one where you drive to the same places, eat the same food, and watch the same TV shows or scenario two where you … Read more