We are now back and posting. . . we had an attack a few weeks ago on our web site at 1-Focus and ended up with malware that caused all sorts of problems and embarrassment.  Our columns on the left and right are still a little messed up but you can still read the posts.  We did lose a couple of blog posts in our efforts to reconstruct the site and our Company Twitter account is still “suspended” pending review, which can take up to 30 days.

I would like to thank our web guys who helped clean it up and monitored it daily to ensure it stayed clean. In fact the malware returned after two days. Shujaat and his guys at Frizcon were very responsive to our needs.

Take 5 minutes to reflect

There are times when publishing inspirational ”feel good” videos or quotes are useful. We all need to feel good once in a while.  It occurs to me that we don’t take time – even a little bit – to reflect on things.  This includes being grateful but it also includes pondering the mysteries of life.  For many years now, when I am asked to explain what kind of coaching I practice, I often begin by saying that I am a “reflective coach”.  By that I mean, I help create a space in time for my clients to take that precious time, to think, to strategize, to reflect about what is important to them and their organization.

Methods for Reflection and Tranquility

I don’t mediate but have always thought this to be a useful activity.  Journalling has not come easily to me either.  Yoga has been a way for me to tap into my inner self and quiet down.  I have been negligent over the past few years and I believe that it has shown up quite vigorously in my lack of patience.  So I look for other ways to reflect.   Often I come across something in my journeys through the internet and social networks that encourage me to take a few minutes to reflect.  I hope to share some of them with you.

Take 5 minutes for this:

Here is Parker Palmer on talking about the mystery of the Soul in 4 minutes. Palmer is is an author, educator, and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, spirituality and social change. He runs the Center for Courage & Renewal.

“The Soul is also very shy.”

My Distinction between Inspiration and Reflection

Inspiration is in the present.  It gives us a sense of uplifting and optimism. It may illicit a feeling of “I feel good” or “I should”.  If we are lucky, we will go to the next level and say “I will”.  It is emotion – sometimes with context sometimes more etherial.

Reflection while appearing to be in the present is actually more future oriented.  Reflection raises questions in our minds: “I wonder” or “What if?”.  It integrates our thinking and emotions. It grounds us and gets us in touch with our values. It gives meaning and focus to the passion.  Consequently it is more likely to create action than inspiration.