Hello Reader,

Anecdotes speak for themselves

I trust that you are having a good weekend!

I have had a peaceful one so far. I value peace. Peace of mind. Peace in everyday processes like rising, going to the gym, writing emails like this one.

As one day leads to the next, by grace, I embrace what is simple and makes sense.

You may have noticed that I like story. Anecdotes often provide a context. Today my story is values-based.

I have lived in the UAE for over 20 years and view it as my home, thanks to the wonderful leaders here). That means I have been a witness to phenomenal change (unreal at times!).

One of my pet peeves is disrespectful clothing. For anyone living outside of the UAE, this means people walking around, for example in a mall, dressed inappropriately.

And so my story begins....

Yesterday when walking to the ATM in a mall I saw one, then two ladies dressed inappropriately. I know, I sound like the ‘dress appropriately police’ :).

On sight of the third lady who may as well have been wearing an outfit close to a bikini, I did make a written complaint to mall management (lol).

Why did I take action?

One of my values - respect for cultural heritage - had been trampled upon. I was honestly offended at the fact that tourists/residents who are guests in a host country think that it is ok to flout basic rules of common decency.

It is not about being overly conservative. It is about recognising that cultural norms in a tourist's/resident’s home country should not be imposed in someone else's country. It is not OK.

Cultural sensitivity matters.

What about your values Reader?

Think for a moment: What values-based action(s) do you take?

Do you or should you consider your values before making decisions - in the workplace, at home, with your friends, family?

I have mentioned values in earlier newsletters, but I think it is worth revisiting.

Certain values rise up in various situations, similar to triggers. We can be triggered by our values and not realise it.

A Tool for resetting

Before I sign off today I’d like to share a 'tool' that I am using as I reset.

Currently, I am rethinking an area of work. Should I stop or should I expand?

Exploration and curiosity are on the table. Fear of failure and judgement have been thrown out.

My ‘tool’ is a mindset embrace:

That means if a friend calls asking to join her for a business empowerment conference, I will tag along.

If it’s a fashion show, yes I am game.

How about being invited as a panelist for a day? Yes, that sounds like good exposure, even if I have not done it in a while.

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Reader does any of this resonate?

I guess if you have heard of Shonda Rhimes' year of yes, the concept is familiar.

Remember, what is new and seemingly different to me, may be plain sailing and boring to you.

That’s not the point:). The point is when seeking change, it helps if we embrace something different.

In micro ways we break boundaries.

I’d love to hear from you.

Please feel free to respond to this email with your thoughts.

As usual my coaching door is open, should you wish to connect and be listened to in a safe, non-judgmental space.

To a great week ahead! Enjoy each moment.