I was honored to be interviewed by Michael Whidden of American Tributaries, dedicated to promoting fellowship and understanding in America practicing core values of curiosity, respect, compassion and humility. I talked about my upbringing and life and what led me to actively volunteer with Braver Angels and the book I am writing Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps You Can Take to Make Our Country Better. Have a look at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7yYqfzfkFs
Read MoreIn 1963, I witnessed my first eclipse — on the coast of Maine — through a shoebox made into a pinhole camera. I was disappointed this year that a family event didn’t happen, but an opportunity arose to see the totality in Pittsburg, NH. I joined old and new friends to witness the stunningly quick onset of darkness and the amazing ring of sun during 3 minutes and 10 seconds of totality.
Read MoreHow are you doing at managing emotions in daily life? It is important to recognize them when they appear and step back to understand where they might be coming from. Another key is awareness of how we impact others when we are experiencing anger, fear, or emotional pain. Stepping back to refocus our energy in ways that might not be apparent at first glance can make a big difference in life and work.
Read MoreIn the 2018 report “Hidden Tribes: A Study of America’s Polarized Landscape,” the authors identify seven segments of Americans (that they call “tribes”) distinguished by differences in beliefs and attitudes. While the two extremes (progressive activists and conservatives) dominate the political conversation, “this environment spawns increasing extremism. . . . Intolerance for the other is a grave threat to our democratic system.”
Read MoreIf you are convinced you are “right,” how is it OK to attack those who are “wrong,” but expect those who are “wrong” to say no such things about your side? How does that win them over to your perspective? I fear for the future of our great nation. Are we headed to another civil war? How do we break this vicious cycle? This is tough work, but change can happen, beginning with understanding that how we see others is a reflection of ourselves.
Read MoreYou may not think of yourself as a leader but, if you are influencing others, you most certainly are! My definition of leadership is actions and behaviors that influence the actions and behavior of others. With a little conscious effort, we can all be more effective leaders, adopting the positive habits of those who touched us in some way. Here are a few suggestions to up your informal leadership game.
Read MoreThese are difficult times in the United States with wide-ranging challenges, as well as forces that magnify these issues: a media environment that rewards outrage over thoughtfulness; social media algorithms that exploit our worst instincts; and conflict entrepreneurs who benefit financially and politically by pitting us against each other. But we can each make a difference through individual actions.
Read MoreIt is easy to get sucked into doom and gloom these days, but I am reminded of the powerful Henry Matisse quote: “There are always flowers for those who want to see them.” Then there is Gandhi’s insightful wisdom: "If you want to change the world, start with yourself." That last phrase is the hard part. It is human nature to want others to change, not ourselves. But there are practical steps we can each take to change for the better. . .
Read MoreThat is the name of a new National Governor’s Association initiative under the leadership of Utah governor Spencer Cox. I spent time with five state governors who were in NH for a day-long event based on the idea that, “We need to learn to disagree in a way that allows us to find solutions and solve problems instead of endlessly bickering.” We can’t just blame politicians; as one speaker observed, “we need to look at ourselves.”
Read MoreI listen to NPR, but doom and gloom in the news (including events in Ukraine where I once lived) can depress my mood. However, the “My Unsung Hero” segment always brings joy -- stories of someone touching another’s life in a small, but meaningful way. I strive to embrace this in daily life. For example, making sure the young woman who so positively welcomed me as a blood donor knew how much she was appreciated. My brother David was an unsung hero.
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