Reflection question: What is one promise I have made to myself that I keep postponing? I recently completed a psychological and psychometric assessment and was eager to compare the results with an assessment I completed through the same company nearly ten years ago. The experience reminded me of the importance of being intentional, creating time for self-reflection, and keeping a journal to capture the events, thoughts, and feelings that shape my responses. Throughout the assessment, I had to pause and consider how I would react to specific statements and what my true preferences were. Through my feedback session the one statement that really resonated with me was: “In my daily activities, slow down and become mindful.” I have become accustomed to running the race, focusing on delivering goals, and moving quickly from one achievement to the next. However, when the goal is reached, I sometimes realize that I have lost members of my team along the way. This pattern also affect my relationships at home, particularly with the people closest to me. My promise this week was to “slow down in order to speed up.” It has not been easy. In some areas, I have had to go back, invite team members to rejoin the process, and allow them to contribute to the solution. In doing so, I am learning to create space for growth, rebuild trust, and move forward together as a team. What promise have you made to yourself and what steps did you take this week to honour it?

Today, I intentionally took the time to nominate and recognise my co-workers for the exceptional service they delivered over the past week. A simple “thank you” or “well done” lit up their eyes and transformed their faces with genuine smiles. This reminded me that when we feel good, we think more clearly and are better able to respond intelligently. However, when we feel depressed, frustrated or angry, our thinking can become limited. We may feel stuck, as though we are repeatedly hitting our heads against a wall. But imagine being able to create a sense of positivity even in a difficult situation. When we feel encouraged and supported, our minds open up, allowing us to see new possibilities and solutions. This experience made me realise that each of us holds the KEY to freeing ourselves from the prisons we create in our own minds.

Did you know that you hold the keys to free yourself from the mental prisons you create?