Envisioning Possibilities
Sharpen the Saw
Have you ever tried to scrape paint with a dull razor?
How about cutting a fine piece of fabric with rusty shears?
Or maybe slice a bagel with a knife that hasn’t been sharpened since, well, ever?
The painter knows that the dull razor will make their job more difficult and time-consuming.
The seamstress keeps a set of fabric shears clean and dedicated to just fabric, to ensure that the edges of fine cloth aren’t mangled and ragged upon cutting.
As for the bagel connoisseur?
A sharpened knife is one of the best defenses against an unexpected visit to an urgent care doctor.
This same logic was articulated by the late Stephen R. Covey in his bestselling book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”
“Habit 7 is taking time to sharpen the saw. It’s preserving and enhancing the greatest asset you have – you. This is the single most powerful investment we can ever make in life – investment in ourselves.”
When you don’t make this investment in keeping yourself sharp, you’re inviting the various facets of your life to deteriorate.
You wake up one morning and realize your health has decayed. Untended relationships have withered. Your business has stagnated.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
The tools of most trades, or even hobbies, go well beyond cutlery.
We are the tool that runs our lives and each part of it. Success in our health, business, relationship, spiritual, financial, social, and other areas of our lives requires constant renewal and sharpening our behaviors, thoughts, goals, and plans. And just like the sharpening of tools takes time, our personal sharpening takes time along with self-discipline and a plan.
The next “Envisioning Possibilities” workshop will help you sharpen your personal saw and cut through the underbrush that’s been in the way of your success. We’ll help you identify the goals you want to reach, the tools you’ll need, and a plan to put you on the path to success.
Join me July 23 and July 30 for Envisioning Possibilities – evening 6 – 7:30.
www.envisioiningpossibilities.com a workshop given by Advanta Strategies.
From Fearful to Fearless:
Every confident speaker once shook in their shoes.
How to Answer “Tricky” Questions
When you stay calm, clarify with repetition, and bridge back to your core ideas, you guide the dialogue rather than chase it. The result? You come across as thoughtful, credible, and persuasive exactly the qualities clients and colleagues remember.
Alzheimers Walk
Walked Hudson River Bridge to End Alzheimers
The Designer’s Advantage – Speaking with Pictures and Plans
Behind every great design is a story: a spark of inspiration, a client’s dream, a challenge overcome.
Conflict Resolution Starts with Conversation
In design and in business conflict is inevitable. Whether it’s a client who changes direction mid-project or a team member who misses a deadline, tensions can rise fast. But most conflicts don’t come from bad intentions; they come from miscommunication. The good news? Strong communication skills can turn potential clashes into opportunities for collaboration and clarity.
Motivating Your Team Through Powerful Words
Design leadership isn’t just about making creative choices—it’s about motivating the people who bring those choices to life. The right words can turn a project into a movement.
Organizing a Speech Like You Organize a Space: Function Meets Flow
“Design is intelligence made visible.” – Alina Wheeler Designers know that great spaces aren’t accidents; they’re carefully planned for flow, balance, and purpose. The same rule applies to speeches: when your structure works, your message shines. ...
Know your Audience: Tailoring Presentations
Whether you’re pitching to a client, a builder, or a board, one size never fits all. The secret to a powerful presentation lies in knowing exactly who’s in the room—and speaking their language.