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I've been Twittering for a few weeks now. It's a fascinating platform for social networking both for individuals and for businesses. One of the things I've discovered is that, like the rest of the world, Twitter is filled with all kinds of people. I like to use the search engine, putting in my favorite words and look for folks who seem especially intriguing to me. I follow a wide variety of people from chefs to nuns to CEO's. I like updates that run the gamut of my interests.
For anyone who doesn't know what Twitter is, check out www.twitter.com . It is essentially a way to stay connected to those who "follow" you by using very short statements that people can quickly read. I am, by no means, an expert on Twitter, but I do understand that the underlying premise of having people follow you is in the idea of reciprocity. I follow you and in turn, if inspired, you follow me too. There are many layers to this, of course, but that is the fundamental concept on Twitter.
So I am a little surprised and somewhat irked at those who constantly self-promote on Twitter. I do understand the idea is for visibility, but it seems to me that there is a fine line between marketing your services and self-absorption. I also get that people are seemingly generous with their services, but most times isn't there a return on their marketing efforts?
Don't get me wrong ... I understand we all need visibility, clients, customers, etc. It's the attitude that bugs me. When people are trying to shove their stuff in my inbox without asking and making the assumption that they can change my life with their one super product, I am a little put off. It's like a really bad networking event where people are trying to shove their business cards into your hand and moving on to their next target after thirty seconds of shallow conversation. Yuck. I need a shower just thinking about it.
We must be cautious that our quest for self-actualization doesn't become a quest of self-absorption. - Loretta LaRoche
There is that old law of people doing business with those they know, those they like, and those they trust. I find few Twitterers take the time to actually build that type of relationship. Maybe it's just me, but I need more value in my relationships. Engage with me! That is my goal on Twitter. Even if I never have thousands of followers, my goal is to build real relationships that are founded on integrity and mutual respect.
Call me crazy but I think that is possible. That is how I want Twitter to work for me. Your thoughts?
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Submitted by Beth on Mon, 03/30/2009 - 12:49
Fortune does not change men; it unmasks them. -- Madame Necker
I am hearing more and more stories these days that just flat-out inspire me. When I talk with people, I am finding that many are in the midst of terrible circumstances, and yet, more often than not, they are living life with a gumption and graciousness to accept what is, making the best of life. It is in this process that their true character emerges. It's a funny thing to see character birthed as a result of misfortune, whether it be in health, financial issues, divorce and other relationship problems.
One such man that inspired me is Michael Gates Gill (see http://tiny.cc/P4rJz), a former executive who was fired and subsequently landed a job at his local Starbuck's. His story is documented in the book, How Starbuck's Saved My Life.
A new and unexpected reality takes time to adjust to. It is somewhat normal to be lost for a bit when unforeseen or unfortunate events come into our lives, but, at a certain point, we need accept our new reality and find the meaning in it.
People who unmask their character through adversity:
- exhibit humility
- have a life filled with service to others
- exemplify integrity
- are compassionate people
- have a lot of gratitude for what they have
When it comes to the bottom line, the people who thrive are the ones who shift their perception, accept reality, and unmask their good character.
How do you respond to adversity?
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Submitted by Beth on Tue, 03/24/2009 - 16:30
It's no secret that we are living in uncertain times. On top of the current economic instability, the media tends to give us information that makes the portrayal even bigger than it may be. Many have watched their stocks fall, 401K's dwindle, and there is a pervasive droning about job security and layoffs. Frankly, it can be overwhelming.
And yet, something else is shifting too -- something very real in these topsy-turvy economic days. Aren't we a little more grateful for the work and paycheck that we do have? Isn't there something so basic and comforting about staying in for dinner and eating together as a family? Do you find that, perhaps, your faith has grown because - in spite of the best laid plans - we have no idea what the future holds?
I see people slowing down, becoming much more conscious of our blessings, and being a little more understanding toward one another. I see our creativity ignited in search of new ways to secure a more solid future. I see people conserving more and scaling down opulent lifestyles. I see communities coming together in support of each other. In my mind, that is not a bad thing.
A case in point: who would have ever imagined that 93-year-old Clara Cannucciari would be a YouTube sensation making simple home-cooked food from the Depression era? Check her out at http://tinyurl.com/5vcevl. Clara emits warmth, sharing her family stories as she cooks. And talk about simplicity! Her storytelling is real life history at its best. What could be more basic than that?
In these days of change beyond our control, I am reminded that when nothing is for sure, everything is possible. We can take steps to do better, learn more, think creatively, and get out of the box. We can appreciate our loved ones more and slow down our lives to a comfortable speed. We can increase our faith and believe the best is yet to come!
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Submitted by Beth on Tue, 03/24/2009 - 16:28
I've had a creative block for years now. It crept up after doing too much in too quick of a time span resulting a need for some serious rest. It's hard to be creative when you are depleted. I've spent a lot of time ... and when I say "a lot", I do mean A LOT ... of time re-grouping. Life slowed down significantly, allowing me to better connect with myself, God, and those who matter the most in my life. I've really experienced that balance that seemed so elusive. What a blessing that has been even though I was down on my butt for some time.
So it seems kinda like I have been in hiding, but in reality I have discovered new things that matter to me. Good things -- not that the former wasn't good too, but I am much more in sync now with myself, my community, and how I make a difference to those around me.
It wasn't like I was a "taker" or anything before -- I have always been a big volunteer person, but I really have much more of a well to draw from now when I give. Wow. It fels so good to come out and just share that. I'm thankful that I did what I needed to do to get to this point.
I'm coming out again ... to play in the coaching arena in a bigger way (although I have never stopped coaching) and I am clearer than ever about what I believe, what is "right" for me and when to just say no. Not a "sorta no" or a "I will get back to you" but just a flat-out "no" with absolutely nothing attached to it. I feel strong. I thought I was before but nothing like now ... and I do know that not every day is a strong day so I will better treasure them when I have them.
You are invited to my coming out party! Thanks for sharing the experience.
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Submitted by Beth on Tue, 03/24/2009 - 16:25
