Image by Jerry Friedman
I’m spinning off Jeanine Byers post about humor.
After working for many years in corporate America, I thought I had lost my sense of humor. You know what a stressful job is like. On time and within budget can be a life-changing event if you miss it.
My remedy for that was going to clown school. Yes, there is such a thing. At the time, one was at the University of Wisconsin in La Croix. My stomach hurt when I got home, and I was exhausted.
Rosie the Clown was born there. Her birthing costume was sewn before she arrived. The experience was priceless. Multiply the ways to get a person to giggle.
For instance, when you see someone in the super market running the wheelchair, ask when and where did they get a license to do that. Or if they needed a license. Check out the expression on the persons face first, they may not be in the mood for your humor. I have rarely had a bad, sad response.
Gabravo, Bulgaria claims to be the humor capital of the world, with a humor festival in May. I marched in their parade.
Grammar Matters
In a world where your words represent your brand, grammar isn’t just about correctness it’s about credibility. You can have the best ideas in the room, but if your sentences stumble, people stop listening. When you speak (or write) with precision, you project professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail qualities every successful designer and business owner needs.
Think Fast, Speak Smart
When someone tosses a tough question your way, your brain might go blank before your mouth opens. That’s normal—but it’s not permanent. The trick is to pause with purpose, not panic. The repeat-pause-answer method lets you buy time...
Social Savvy
Elegant events aren’t just about the wine and the lighting they’re where lasting professional connections begin. With confidence, curiosity, and a graceful goodbye, you can turn any gala or awards night into an opportunity for genuine rapport.
Sweat Palms
Swap sweaty palms for confident handshakes.
Tell Me More
A few months ago, I watched a young designer at a networking event nervously circle the coffee station. She rehearsed “So, what do you do?” at least four times before finally approaching a woman from a major firm. Five minutes later, they were laughing...
The Conversation
Because small talk isn’t small at all. It’s where big things begin.

