Career, Change and Pivot

Living Neuroplasticity: Why It’s Time to Rethink Work, Leadership and Age

For years, we assumed the adult brain was fixed; that once neurons died, they were gone for good. The idea that the brain could change, adapt, and even grow new cells after childhood was considered impossible. That view began to shift only a few decades ago. In the 1960s, researcher Joseph Altman first observed new …

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Much of Europe’s Debate on Pensions Misses the Point: Work Itself

Sometimes it feels as if we are told to work longer for jobs that do not exist, for pensions we should not expect, to eventually enjoy an old age that might not be so enjoyable – because we are burned out. That may sound like the pessimist’s view, but it reflects a sentiment many share. …

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A Snapshot of the Future (Already Present) of Learning – from the Sandwich Generation

A week ago, I found myself in an airport hotel outside Helsinki. I had just finished a long day of flying, leaving my children safely at home with my spouse (though never without the familiar logistical stress test of family coordination). The next day, I was set to continue my journey to celebrate the 80th …

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When Do You Know You’re Ready to Leave Corporate Life?

Probably around the time you spend more energy pretending to be excited than actually doing your job. When clapping on demand drains your soul, and your daily inner monologue shifts from “This is fine” to “Who even am I anymore?” I spent close to 15 years in corporate life and, truth be told, I don’t …

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Educating for the Future: Beyond Standardization

“Our task is to educate their (our students) whole being so they can face the future. We may not see the future, but they will, and our job is to help them make something of it.”– Sir Ken Robinson, The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything As the new school term begins for primary …

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Midlife and Memory: Why Women’s Brain Health Deserves More Attention

I remember, almost in slow motion, the first time my mother completely lost her memory and sense of orientation. It was ten years ago, almost to the month. A sunny afternoon on the summerhouse veranda, I sat with my baby and toddler, slowly realizing that life would never be the same again. And also realizing …

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“Am I Too Empathetic To Lead?”

In today’s climate of economic uncertainty and ongoing organizational restructurings, I’m noticing a striking pattern in my coaching practice. More and more high-achieving professionals -people being recommended or promoted into people leadership roles – are opting out. Some even voluntarily take a step down. The reason they give? “I feel too much. I care too …

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The Art of Deciding Well in Uncertain Times

What can we learn about decision-making in times of extreme uncertainty? Many of my clients today feel stuck, almost paralyzed, by the weight of big decisions in a world that’s rapidly changing. With unclear outcomes and unpredictable variables, it’s no wonder they feel overwhelmed and hesitant to act. This kind of stuckness isn’t just frustrating …

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From Knower to Learner: The Joy (and Humility) of Not Being the Smartest in the Room

Once in a while, it’s very healthy to step into a room where you’re definitely not (!) the smartest person. Especially when your day job -or your parenting life – involves guiding others, providing answers, and occasionally being seen as a bit of a know-it-all, it’s crucial to be reminded of what it feels like …

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The Hidden Toll of Unpredictable Managers: Why Inconsistency Breeds Workplace Stress

In my work as a coach, I regularly hear professionals share stories about their managers. Some are inspiring and energizing, while others fall into the opposite camp. And among the most damaging are not the outright bullies, but the unpredictable ones. We tend to think consistent bad behavior is the worst, and obviously nobody likes …

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