I grew up in an environment that shaped me, as we all do. It wasn't easy, we didn't have a lot during the toughest times, but it certainly could have been worse. I had more responsibilities than the average teenager, and I likely had a little more ambition than the average person. My mom set an incredible example. I started working, volunteering and traveling... at a very young age. I had very little handed to me. I spent time getting to know interesting people, and I was lucky to meet great people who gave me opportunities and put me in a position to grow and see new perspectives. I worked hard; I followed my heart; I had fun. I screwed up.... and most importantly - I learned.
I am lucky to be one of those people who thinks about the affect people, events and decisions have on the world. Look at past blog posts on this blog from '09 and 2010, and that is obvious. I try to ask 'what more can I do?' several times a week, and I have people in my life that inspire me: friends, family, co-workers. I admire people who I follow and interact with in virtual communities: blogs, Twitter, Facebook and more that motivate me to be better, do more, serve others, and strive for excellence. I love all of you who make such a difference in the world.
Wherever you are next year will be in part because of where you are and what you're doing today. Every moment, interaction, choice or lack thereof makes a difference in your life and in the lives of others. As I have blogged before, remember you are that person to someone, and how you act, what you say or don't say, and the time you take to care about others creates change in the world. Make it positive, assume positive intent, and lead doing the right things for the right reasons. You can't imagine what a difference you will make.
I always learn so much from you when I get to hear one of your presentations. At the SHRM-Atlanta Annual Conference, you provided some powerful insights regarding communication, including this phrase, "If you are communicating or not, you are always communicating." Since then, I've been more aware and intentional to those who have made a difference in my life. Thank you for being a great leader in our online communities, professional organizations and executive teams. You are truly an ambassador of positive change in the world.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jenny! Keep spreading your great outlook on the world. I hope to see you soon!
ReplyDeleteHi Kat! Stopped by your blog today as I've been in need of a little motivational boost. With you in the world, who needs coffee? Your posts always get my wheels spinning. Thanks for the pick-me-up. I hope that you are doing well and enjoying your new job at Cinnabon! ~Shannon (Davis) Smith
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shannon! I am loving the gig, and I hope you are doing well!
ReplyDeleteReading this is very inspiring but yet so motivational. Your insight is valuable on so many levels.
ReplyDeleteHey, how did you get that picture of me?
ReplyDeleteAnyways, I had a chance encounter with Kat, not too long ago, and this is my answer to how she got where she is.
She is kind.
She is generous.
She walks it like she talks it.
She is confident and relaxed.
She is cool and collected.
She speaks with grace and intelligence.
But, more importantly, she is a total goof.
When she approaches you, you will probably fall out of your seat...and when she walks away you may feel slightly dizzy--and will most likely say to yourself--"Wow, that is one put together Lady."
The Lyrics to Billy Joels' "she's always a woman" may come to mind...but I digress.
5 gets you 10...thats how she got where she's at.