Written by: Zuleka Kaysan, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Those working in HR in management positions are currently experiencing an avalanche of challenges. In the wake of the Great Resignation and Quiet Quitting, to name just two, retaining the top talent needed for a company to be at the forefront of its industry is a priority. However, building and elevating the workforce means navigating the new work order; aligning employee expectations and priorities, having the skills for the future of work and leveraging emerging technologies. Managing these alongside tightened budgets in response to the economic climate has posed a challenge to even the most seasoned professionals. In this unique set of circumstances, we’re seeing new trends, technologies and ways of working emerge. But which ones are worth the investment? From introducing algorithmic managers to preparing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, here are some trends in people management this year. 1. Tackling disengagement With three in five UK workers looking for a new job, the Great Resignation continues to pose a severe risk to companies. This doesn’t just indicate a lack of employee engagement but active disengagement. However, 60% of leaders intend to hang on to existing talent rather than go through expensive recruitment processes this year. To achieve this or, as a minimum, to mitigate attrition, leaders must invest in a committed intervention. The best way to tackle deep-seated disengagement is to gather insights into the root causes and not be afraid to tackle challenging issues head-on. Employees highlight some common issues: poor management, lack of flexibility and a lack of ownership or accountability. Disengaged employees don’t feel appreciated or that their work-life balance is valued. These issues can’t be solved with typical well-being initiatives such as a games room or free fruit. One way to tackle disengagement while contributing to business improvement is through digital transformation initiatives in which employees are empowered to crowdsource suggestions and own those changes. Technology can be used to automate inefficient processes, streamline shift allocation, make schedules accessible, and improve human connectedness. It can also contribute to the real-time assessment of employee performance which democratises the entire process. By upgrading processes and operations, physical or digital, employees have a better experience and are more likely to stay loyal to their employers. 2. Ushering in the Fourth Industrial Revolution What is expected of employees today is very different to what was expected ten or even five years ago. The pace of change is only accelerating as over a billion people will need to reskill or upskill to meet the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Think about the new skills required in a world with no barriers between the physical and digital, with high automation and seamless accessibility to information – every leader needs to be prepared. There is no denying that leaders must close the skills gap to establish a competitive advantage in their industry. However, it’s in the best interests of employers and employees alike to stay ahead of skills development. Not only does this future-proof the workforce, but it also increases employee engagement to an extent that can’t be underestimated. Lack of career development and advancement is one of the top reasons employees cite when quitting a job. With on-demand training, micro-practice and micro-mentoring, disruption and abortive costs are minimised, and employers can expect long-term ROI. 3. Preventative well-being strategies Conversations around workplace well-being are not new. However, the need for a robust and comprehensive well-being strategy has intensified as nearly 3 in 5 employees have reported negative impacts of work-related stress post-pandemic. Additionally, economic volatility and the costs of living crisis have introduced another source of stress for employees. The key is prevention. Employers are responsible for preventing burnout, stress, and other adverse effects of the workplace, not just as a moral issue but as a necessity for the company’s productivity. Measures should be taken to prevent employees from getting to the point where they need burnout-related leave. With on-demand and digitised well-being resources, companies can make self-help and even facilitator-led support accessible to employees when needed. Specifically, leaders can leverage advancements in neuroscientific studies that have shown how the human brain activates changes. Platforms that enable employees to develop incremental yet consistent micro-habits yield much greater results than traditional learning practices. Well-being strategies need to be proactive, preventative and holistic. They must cover mental, physical and financial well-being to protect the powerhouse of their business, their employees. 4. Fostering the modern work culture Many industries have accepted and embraced remote and hybrid work structures. Prominently led by the ultimatum set by workers; 64% of employees would consider quitting if made to return to the office full-time. To avoid losing the best talent, business leaders must create a modern workplace that inspires success, establish a company culture in-person and digitally, and leverage emerging technologies. Accepting and investing in this shift in priorities and expectations is part of meeting employees where they’re at. Technology can be used to create a comprehensive digital experience for employees, keeping them informed about news, objectives, protocol changes and more. The priority is to develop clear communication and enhance human connectivity. This is especially key in highly uncertain or unstable environments; as anxiety levels increase, productivity levels decrease. A transparent, vulnerable and candid communication strategy reduces this uncertainty trigger. The office still plays a role in modern work culture, particularly as new generations enter the workforce. Leaders can reinvent workplaces into a thoughtful mix of open, inviting, inspiring and collaborative spaces and designated quiet zones that encourage ideation and productivity. 5. Introducing algorithmic managers Big data has already transformed many sectors of the business world, such as supply chain management and infrastructure refinement. So, why not people management? Collecting people analytics allows HR to make data-driven decisions, spot trends and share actionable insights about revenue-impacting issues such as the cause of high employee turnover and absenteeism. Introducing machines to oversee people management might seem idealistic, but algorithmic managers have capabilities human managers don’t. This technology can process large data sets to make fully informed decisions even in complex situations. That said, care needs to be taken so that the algorithms don’t inherit and learn bias from historical data, thus losing the benefit of objective computer processing. Additionally, the decisions made in people management cannot be taken lightly as they involve the hiring, firing and upskilling of employees. Augmenting this emerging technology with human insights is vital. If companies are to build resilient and adept workforces that garner success, people management needs to be a priority. At the core of all these interventions is the elevation of the employee voice. Companies that are willing to listen to and make provisions for their employees will be able to leverage organisational and technological advantages for maximum impact. Invest in your people, and your people will invest in you. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Zuleka! Zuleka Kaysan, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Spurred by her 18-year career delivering business transformation and change in fast-moving corporations with ambitious mandates, Zuleka Kaysan founded The Cornerstone Advisory - to empower tech and service-based businesses at each stage of their growth. She helps visionary leaders elevate their performance through an integrated approach; enhanced customer experience, innovative service design, and a fit-for-purpose culture. Her mission: to bring ideas to life.

Written by: Priyanka Tiku Gupta , Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. “Growing up in a first-world country like Singapore is tough for our kids! That sounds counter-intuitive. We work hard as parents to provide our kids with an environment where they are blessed and fortunate to have everything they want at their fingertips. On reflection, have we, as parents, conditioned them to believe that life is always an upward trend? I am not suggesting we dampen their self-esteem or power to dream big. On the contrary, we should continue motivating them to succeed in living their passion. However, are we preparing them well enough to react to unforeseen circumstances? What happens if they don’t achieve their goals? What happens if they don’t secure top positions at school or in extracurricular activities? What happens when things don’t go planned? My goal in 2023 is to complement teaching my kids to continue pursuing high-performing goals and to have a toolkit to manage unforeseen change and “failure.” I plan on doing this by implementing my ‘3As Framework’, with tips on how we, as parents, can support our kids (and ourselves – the advice is universal!): Attitude Remind yourself that nothing in life is a failure, and it’s only feedback. Find joy in the current situation, be grateful for the experience and talk to your kids about how some of your life’s challenging stories have shaped you into who you are today. Gratitude is a quick way to change the vibration of how we are feeling in the situation and brings a sense of calm and clarity in the chaos of the challenge. Acceptance Embrace and normalize high-charge emotions such as anger, sadness, and guilt. It’s better in than out; let’s not label feeling these emotions as less strong and resilient. Allowing yourself to feel and release helps to lower the negative charge of emotions associated with the situation. Helping your kids express their feelings reduces the possibility of their subconscious mind making limiting beliefs and promises to themselves that tend to impact them as adults subconsciously. Action Accept the current reality. Talk about what you and your kids have learned from this situation, about yourselves and the situation itself. If one thing could have been done differently, what would that be and why? This helps instill a growth and learning mindset in our children and teaches them courage and confidence when faced with challenges as adults.” Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , Li nkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Priyanka! Priyanka Tiku Gupta, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Priyanka Tiku Gupta is a multifaceted, internationally certified performance coach, an emotional wellness practitioner, and a founder of her wellness organization PTG Wellness. After 20 years of media and marketing experience, she took her 1st ever career break. Being ambitious, she pursued her passion for empowering people in her break, leading her to her personal development journey. She is now on a mission to drive the belief that life doesn't happen to us and that we can create the life we desire. She believes we all have this inner critical voice, yet there is a way to change that voice to your best friend. She has 500+ hours of coaching and healing over 75 clients across Asia, the UK, Europe, Australia & the Middle East. She strives to take her clients on a transformational journey where they learn how to unleash their true potential by tapping into their inside voice as their unique superpower.

Written by: Pamella Pritchard, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Do you sometimes wonder if your attempts to sell life coaching is like speaking, passionately, but to a brick wall? You know you can help people, and you are ready to accept clients, except, no one is biting at your marketing. Here is why. Nobody buys life coaching. It's not like a massage, where people literally want the massage. They are buying the impact of the result of life coaching. Read that part again. It’s not even just the result, it’s the IMPACT. Read on to find out exactly what that means. STOP trying to sell coaching. The only people who buy coaching are coaches, because they value coaching in and of itself. But EVEN then, coaches are highly unlikely to continue to purchase the same coaching if they aren't clear on what the result is at the end of it. Have you ever had an incredible coaching session then a week later you can't really say what happened but you know it was good? Well, this is the challenge that most coaches face when it comes to selling life coaching. Because every day that you are not getting clear on what your client gets out of coaching with you, the more you are leaving money on the table. Now imagine how people who think coaching is for football teams and presidents and maybe someone like Sheryl Sandberg. They don't understand what life coaching is, or how it helps them. So selling life coaching or just the results isn't enough. Your clients need to know the impact of life coaching. Without communicating the impact of coaching, the result of coaching sounds like empty, fluffy words. So many coaches sell the following: Confidence Happiness Feeling better No longer feeling like an imposter at work A career change Thriving in a life transition Better parenting Conscious relationships Feeling enough Belief in themselves Life purpose discovery etc. etc So why doesn't this work? Every single hour of the day, we are bombarded with car adverts, magazines, social media, and advertisements that promote 'emotional experiences'. Have you ever become teary-eyed after a commercial, only to discover it was a promotion for Mcdonald's at the end of it? Most life coaches don't have the budget or time as they build their business around the 9to5, to create emotional advertisements that impact the way the big conglomerates do. The use of emotional psychology in modern advertising has resulted in us ironically being de-sensitized to what these words actually mean. So when they see your offer talking about things like 'purpose' or 'confidence', it simply doesn't land as powerfully as you know it could. Here's what to do instead: When you are communicating your offer you need to both state what they get out of coaching and explain clearly why that matters and how that will impact them. It's not enough to say, 'create boundaries and finally feel better about yourself'. Your audience will skim past, because even though they desperately need to create boundaries to feel better about themselves, they need to understand what that actually looks like. Let me share some tangible reframes for you in common niches so you can see exactly how this plays out: In business mindset coaching, it isn't just building your business around the 9to5 with confidence, clarity and simplicity, it's LITERALLY : When you get home shattered from a busy day in the 9to5 and you want to work on coaching but it feels overwhelming AF when you think about creating clients you end up on social media for 2 hours instead and then giving up only to do something similar tomorrow. Then I can help you with that. (Literally ‒ find out more here.) Notice how my marketing regularly speaks to BOTH. So can yours... In confidence coaching, it isn't just helping people find their inner confidence so they can feel more vibrant in life. It's LITERALLY Learn how to not get frazzled when you deliver that presentation on Wednesday and finally get noticed by the boss (even though you've worked there for 3 years) and put yourself forward for that promotion you know you can do it with your eyes closed. Drop me a dm and let's discuss how I can help you achieve this in your career. In parenthood, it isn't just conscious parenthood for the spiritual single mother, it's LITERALLY: Learn how to stay grounded, patient and connected when you feel overwhelmed at 4am when your baby is screaming, you haven't slept and you find yourself wondering how you'll do it all. Schedule your free discovery call so I can help you. I could go on... Do you feel the difference? Put yourself in your client's shoes. Feel into their challenges. See how they are dealing with it NOW, without your help. Lay out how it will feel after they have worked with you and then describe it. Give them practical tips and examples that they can implement TODAY so they can build the TRUST that you really 'get' what they are going through and demonstrate that you can help them. Help them ahead of time. Before they even think about paying you. Invite them in closer, one step at a time. Maybe that's your freebie, your consult call, to pay you, or whatever the next natural step is for you... Make it so they trust in you to give them help. Give it abundantly. In your copy, in your videos, in your face to face meetings. Make it so that paying you becomes a no-brainer. If you find yourself procrastinating on this then check out this article on How to beat procrastination in your coaching business. Was this helpful? Drop me a dm on Instagram @coachingwithpamella and let me know. Your next step: get on my email list for more practical tips like this to start and grow your soul-led coaching business around the 9 to 5 – click here. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Pamella! Pamella Pritchard, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Pamella Pritchard, is a certified business mindset and life coach to coaches who are building their soul-led coaching business around their 9to5. Bridging the gap between corporate and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, Pamella helps professionals navigate the transition from employee to CEO in mindset, energetics and strategy. Her signature program THRIVE helps coaches make this transition with simplicity, confidence and clarity, you can schedule a free consult here. Pamella has now left her own corporate London career to travel, and is currently based in tropical North Queensland in Australia.

Rita May is a scientist turned Emotional Eating and Health Coach. She helps driven professionals and entrepreneurs who are successful in other areas of their life but struggle with their weight because of emotions and stress-eating. Her coaching method is based on three pillars: the science of nutrition, psychology, and a bit of spirituality. She doesn’t believe in the one-diet-fits-all approach. Instead of giving you a diet plan, she helps you choose a way of eating that you enjoy because that’s the one you will be able to sustain in the long term. However, nourishing your body is not enough. Our well-being is also affected by stress, relaxation, thoughts, emotions, beliefs, joy, self-awareness, our personal history, and so much more. Using her Mindfulness to Food Freedom method and How to stop eating your feelings workbook, she helps her clients eliminate emotional and stress-related overeating or binge eating. She designed her Healthy Habits for Permanent Weight Loss program to help busy professionals and entrepreneurs lose weight and improve their health with just a little time investment per week so they can focus on their work, business, and family. Rita May, Emotional Eating and Health Coach Introduce yourself! Please tell us about you and your life, so we can get to know you better. I‘m Rita May, an Emotional Eating and Health Coach. I help driven professionals and entrepreneurs who are successful in other areas of their life but can’t solve this one challenge: emotional and stress-eating. I wasn’t always a coach. After graduating from university in my native Hungary, I worked as a busy postdoc researcher and scientist for about 15 years in the UK and Switzerland. It was my personal journey that inspired me to learn about nutrition and the psychology of eating so that I could help myself and then others too. While I worked as a scientist we had our 2 sons and after the very short periods of maternity leave, I continued working. It was a very exciting but exhausting time of my life. Our work with my colleagues was featured in the media multiple times, we were also chosen as one of the 100 Leading Global Thinkers in the category Innovators by Foreign Policy (an American political journal). It looked like the perfect life but I felt like there was too much pressure on me. I found myself eating to relieve stress while balancing demanding work in a competitive field, travelling, looking after our small children, and attending to all the other responsibilities. I was constantly stressed, I started to have anxiety, and I was impatient with our little boys. I felt like a failure at work, as a mum, as a spouse, and as a friend since I couldn´t give my best in any of those areas. Sometimes the feeling of I would never be good enough drove me to eat emotionally, other times exhaustion and feeling stressed. I realized that eating healthy food and moving regularly isn't always enough to live a balanced and healthy life. Because when we don't have the tools to deal with our emotions and stress, eating can quickly become a comfort or reward after a tiring day, or a distraction from our uncomfortable feelings or problems. Then we repeat this behaviour multiple times and overeating becomes a habit like smoking, drinking, gambling or other addictive behaviours. To learn how to break free from emotional eating I chose an Integrative Health Coach training that included the psychology of eating. This enabled me to get me unstuck and later help my clients do the same. I have also read many books and taken many courses to have a comprehensive view of the subject. I learned about limiting beliefs, mindfulness, neuroscience, habits, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and more. I'm glad my journey led me here, to share with you that there's a better way. I don't make food choices based on my emotions anymore. I don't use food to relieve stress or make myself feel better. Now I want to help other people who are struggling with emotional eating issues. What kind of audience do you target your business towards? Busy, successful people, who despite all they’ve accomplished, can’t figure out how to stop overeating. They know how to solve complicated problems, lead the work of other people, save lives, or solve legal issues but they feel powerless around food. They’re always busy, their job is stressful, they may also travel a lot, plus they may raise a family. The eat-to-soothe stress habit became their release. As high-achieving people, they believe they have to work harder and harder to maintain their success, but if stress and overwhelm are not addressed, this overload leads to exhaustion, food cravings, overeating, and weight gain (or even burnout and depression in the long run). Then usually they try to lose weight using the latest popular diet. However, even if they lose weight, they gain it back because the emotional component is not addressed. When life becomes too hectic they turn to food again. Busy people often don’t take their relationship with food seriously. They think it’s only an inconvenience. What they don’t realise is that it affects not only their weight but their health, their confidence, and their self-worth too. They’re often not even aware that a coach could help them find out what triggers them to overeat and teach them how to react to those situations differently so they can disconnect their mood from food. As smart, busy people, they have so much on their minds and have no time to take care of themselves. They need someone to keep them accountable until their new habits become ingrained and automatic. And this is where I can help. How do you help your clients? My 1-on-1 coaching method is based on three pillars: the science of nutrition, the psychology of eating, and the neuroscience behind habit change. I don’t believe in the one-diet-fits-all approach. Instead of giving you a diet plan, I help you choose a way of eating that you enjoy because that’s the one you will be able to sustain in the long term. However, nourishing your body is not enough. Our well-being is also affected by stress, relaxation, thoughts, emotions, beliefs, joy, self-awareness, our personal history and so much more. Therefore, we also focus on what triggers you to overeat, I help you learn and implement simple and effective emotional management tools, update your mindset and belief system, learn to accept and trust your body, and incorporate more pleasure in your life so you don’t need food to feel better. By practising these skills, you’ll change your responses to situations that would’ve led to emotional eating in the past. My approach considers every aspect of your life and is entirely personalized to help you in the areas where you need it most. In this post, I talked about the 6 levels of change: environment, behaviour, skills, beliefs/values, identity and vision. If you want to stop emotional or compulsive eating for good, you need to change on all levels. If you only change your environment and behaviour, which is actually what most people do, you won’t have long-term transformation. With my 1-on-1 clients, we go through all these levels and make the changes needed for each of them. Of course, the lower levels are easier to change (that’s why most people only work on those), but the higher the level, the greater the influence it has (on the lower levels). It’s important to explore all levels because the solution is often not at the level where the problem is discovered, and the levels also depend on each other. Do you have self-study courses too? To overcome emotional eating the How to stop eating your feelings workbook and the Mindfulness to Food Freedom course are good starting points. However, emotional eating is a complex issue and sometimes it’s difficult to find your blind spots. It can also be hard to keep yourself motivated to do the work (which can be uncomfortable as we are dealing with difficult emotions) on your own. Especially when you’re busy anyway. Therefore, I highly recommend working with me 1-on-1 to discover what you’re really hungry for and break free from emotional and compulsive overeating. I can quickly recognize your blind spots, give you personalized tasks that fit your lifestyle and keep you accountable to do the necessary steps every week for 3 months. If you can cope with your emotions without food and want to lose weight without dieting and feeling deprived I recommend taking the Healthy Habits for Permanent Weight Loss program. It is available as a self-study course or also on a 1-on-1 basis. With the help of this program, you´ll shift your Mindset to rewrite your body image and disempowering beliefs by reprogramming your subconscious mind. You will have control over the voice in your head screaming at you to overeat. You will be able to indulge without overindulging. You´ll upgrade your Skillset by learning about advanced eating and lifestyle strategies that will work specifically for you. The skills you need to have inner motivation and to stop self-sabotaging yourself. You´ll develop your Action-set by building and sticking to powerful eating, exercise, thinking, stress releasing and sleeping habits that you love and they will take you towards your weight, body and health goals. Do you have a free resource for the readers so they can learn a bit more about your method? I have multiple free resources, you can check them out here. One of them is a free training for people who want to learn a bit more about emotional- and stress-eating, as well as compulsive overeating. This 49-minute training helps people understand why they feel out of control around food, shows the mistakes they're probably making that amplify the problem, and gives solutions to fix these mistakes. You can access it here. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Rita!

Written by: Carolina Gonzalez, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. When it comes to spiritual growth, why do some people are so successful at reaching goals and manifesting change, while others with the same talents seem to struggle so hard? One of the most repeated answers to this question is very simple; because they are constantly casting a spell against themselves. Your word is a magical power in itself, for good and bad. Your word is literally your ability to cast a constant spell over your own life, and to shape your inner reality; and whatever shape your inner reality has, it will influence a great amount of your outer reality too. Words are the beginning of ALL creation. A very effective way to train yourself into having a more powerfulmind+spirit (for me, this always works as a combo) is to observe the way you talk about your everyday life, and work to reprogram your most negative patterns into more positive ones. Let's see this through an example: If you find yourself constantly saying things like “I never have enough time”, or “I am always late”, or have an abstract, but constant and pressing idea of hurry on your mind – then it is time to stop every time those words come, breathe three times in and out deeply and slowly, and reprogram with “there is time for everything”, “timing is always perfect in my life”, “ I always have time enough” or create affirmations that fit your specific needs. And, this is extremely important: you have to believe it, understand it, and embody it. You have to rejoice in the feeling that those affirmations create, and you have to start existing from that new perspective; and that means learning to savour life at every single moment, learning to remove useless distractions and filling your life with meaning and experience. Your words need YOU to become manifestation; if you do not allow them to happen through you, they just won't. Don't forget that this is always a process, that there is no finish line, and that you are just human; to fail is completely normal, and for something to become second nature, it takes time. This is a training, a practise; just as you would not become an Olympic athlete in a day, a week, or even a year, retraining your thoughts is a continued effort. And be careful; things that you say as funny, filled with sarcasm or nihilism, act exactly the same way as those who are more obviously harmful, because your subconscious does not know the difference between one and the other. While having a good sense of humour is extremely useful for a happy life, and it can sometimes help us cope with difficult situations, that is not the same as entertaining unhealthy cynicism. If it's keeping you from moving on and growing, it is time to leave it behind! Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Carolina! Carolina Gonzalez, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Carolina Gonzalez is a Spiritual Counsellor, Spiritual Worker, Master Herbalist, and Holistic Health Counsellor, with over three decades of experience. For the past fifteen, she has offered her services online, mostly doing custom spiritual work, and guiding people to a deeper and more authentic relationship with their spiritual heritage and personal power. Through her social media and blogs, Carolina actively educates on all these topics, to a loyal and self-aware worldwide community of customers.

Written by: Mike Ciabatti, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Are you looking to gain discipline, focus, and determination? Look no further than the Swiss Special Forces. My experience in rigorous basic training and leadership development in the Swiss military prepared me for combat and success in the cutthroat business world. Discover how my time in the Special Forces gave me the skills to adapt and thrive in any situation. The Challenges of Basic Training in the Swiss Alps Basic training in the Swiss Special Forces is designed to be physically and mentally demanding to weed out those incapable of handling the demands of being a special forces soldier. The training takes place in the Swiss Alps, where soldiers are required to endure extreme weather conditions and rugged terrain. During my 4-month basic training, I had to pass several selection tests, including shooting tests, physical fitness tests, and psychological tests. These tests are designed to challenge every aspect of my being, and I remember feeling overwhelmed and unsure if I would make it through. But I pushed through and passed each test with flying colors. The physical fitness tests were particularly challenging, including long-distance runs, endurance marches, and obstacle courses. I had to be in top physical shape to pass these tests, and I remember feeling exhausted and sore at the end of each day. The psychological tests were also designed to be challenging, as they were meant to test my ability to handle stress and pressure. I was put in simulated combat situations and had to remain calm and make quick decisions under fire. These tests were meant to simulate the real-world conditions that special forces soldiers must handle. Despite the challenges, passing these tests was essential if I wanted to be a part of the Swiss Special Forces. And looking back, I realize that these tests were not only a measure of my physical and mental strength but also my determination and willpower. The Importance of Self-Development in the Special Forces During my time in the Swiss Special Forces, I learned the importance of self-development. This required me to look closely at myself and identify my strengths and weaknesses. As a special forces soldier, I constantly pushed myself to be better physically and mentally. One of the critical aspects of self-development was learning to overcome my fears and doubts. I had to learn to trust myself and my abilities, even in the most challenging situations. This was not always easy, but with the help of my trainers and fellow soldiers, I was able to develop the self-confidence and mental fortitude needed to succeed in the special forces. Another essential aspect of self-development was learning to adapt and improvise. Special forces soldiers are required to operate in various environments and conditions, and I had to learn to be flexible and think on my feet. This needed me to constantly learn and grow, both as a soldier and as a person. Self-development is a vital aspect of the special forces, which I continue to practice in my personal and professional life. I learned that self-awareness, self-confidence, and adaptability are crucial skills I can use in any area of my life, not just in the military. Leadership Lessons Learned in NCO School After completing basic training, I attended NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) school, where I learned about leadership and how to motivate special forces soldiers to follow me in combat. As a leader in the special forces, I made quick decisions and led my team through difficult and dangerous situations. One of the key leadership lessons I learned in NCO school was the importance of clear communication. As a leader, I had to convey my orders and intentions to my team, and I had to listen to their input and concerns. This required me to develop strong communication skills, which I still use today in my business dealings. Another essential leadership lesson I learned was the importance of trust. As a leader, I had to earn my team's confidence and trust in their abilities and decisions. This required me to build strong relationships with my team members and to be open and transparent with them. I also learned the importance of motivation and inspiration. A great leader can inspire and motivate his team to do their best, even in the most challenging situations. I learned that by setting a good example, showing my team that I believed in them, and providing them with the tools and resources they needed, I could help them achieve their goals. These leadership lessons I learned at NCO school have served me well in my business career. I have applied them to build effective teams and lead them through challenging situations. The Value of Peacekeeping Missions Abroad During my ten years in the Swiss military, I had the opportunity to participate in peacekeeping missions abroad under the United Nations. These missions were some of my life's most challenging and rewarding experiences. They allowed me to practice all the skills and lessons I had learned in training, and they helped me grow as a person. One of the critical things I learned from these missions was the importance of cultural understanding and sensitivity. I was able to work with people from different cultures and backgrounds, and I had to learn to respect and understand their perspectives. This helped me to develop my cross-cultural communication and negotiation skills, which have been invaluable in my business dealings. I also learned the importance of teamwork and collaboration. On peacekeeping missions, I was part of a team of soldiers and civilian personnel working towards a common goal. I learned the importance of being a good team member and developed my leadership skills by leading my team through challenging situations. Furthermore, I also developed a sense of discipline and responsibility on these missions. I learned that when you're a part of a peacekeeping mission, you are a representative of your country and therefore have to act accordingly. This helped me to understand the importance of being professional, responsible, and accountable in any situation. My experience on peacekeeping missions abroad has been personally and professionally invaluable. It has helped me to become a more understanding, compassionate, and responsible person, and these skills are something I use in my business every day. Applying Military Skills to Building a Business After my time in the Swiss military, I decided to start my own business. At first, it may seem absurd how my experience in the military could help build a business, but I soon realized that the skills I had acquired were highly transferable. One of the primary skills I have been able to apply is discipline and organization. The military requires a high level of discipline, and I have been able to use this in my business by staying focused and organized, setting goals, and meeting deadlines. Another critical skill I have been able to apply is the ability to adapt and improvise. In the military, I was trained to think on my feet and to come up with creative solutions to problems. This has been invaluable in my business, where I have had to adapt to changing market conditions and find innovative ways to grow my company. The leadership skills I gained in the military have also been critical to my success in business. I have built and led effective teams, delegated responsibilities, and made decisions promptly and confidently. In my business, I work with people from different cultures and backgrounds. I have applied my cross-cultural communication and negotiation skills to build strong relationships with my clients and partners. Finally, my experience on peacekeeping missions abroad has helped me to understand the importance of cultural understanding and sensitivity. Overall, my time in the Swiss military has been precious in preparing me for the challenges of building a business. The skills and experiences I gained in the military have helped me become a more disciplined, adaptable, and effective leader. These skills continue to serve me well in my business today. Overcoming Difficulties and Gaining Confidence One of the most significant takeaways from my time in the Swiss military was overcoming difficulties and gaining confidence. Basic training in the Swiss Alps was incredibly tough physically and mentally. I had to push myself to the limits and face many challenges, but I emerged from this experience with a newfound self-confidence. During the training, I faced several selection tests, including shooting tests, physical fitness tests, and psychological tests. I learned that the key to success was not to give up but to keep pushing forward, even when things seemed impossible. This determination and perseverance helped me pass the selection tests and move to NCO school. At NCO school, I learned about leadership and how to motivate special forces soldiers to follow you in combat and trust my decisions. This experience helped me to develop my decision-making skills and to understand the importance of being a leader who is respected and trusted. Overall, my time in the Swiss military taught me that anything is possible with hard work, determination and perseverance. It helped me gain confidence in my abilities, which has been invaluable in building my business, where I often have to make difficult decisions and take risks. It also helped me understand that failure is a part of the process and that it's not the end but a learning opportunity. In conclusion, my time in the Swiss Special Forces was an incredibly challenging and rewarding experience that helped me become the person I am today. The skills and lessons I gained have been invaluable in my personal and professional life. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve my country and develop myself. The Value of Self-Development One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my time in the Swiss military was the importance of self-development. I was allowed to learn new skills, push my limits, and grow. During the 4-month training course, I was allowed to participate in various activities that helped me to develop my physical fitness, shooting skills, and psychological resilience. These activities were not only challenging but also rewarding. It helped me to understand that my limitations were only in my head and that I could achieve more than I thought possible. After basic training, I attended NCO school, where I learned about leadership and how to motivate special forces soldiers. This experience helped me to understand the importance of being a leader who is respected and trusted. It also helped me to develop my decision-making skills and to understand the importance of being a role model. Self-development was not only limited to physical and mental training. I had the opportunity to attend various classes and courses on different subjects. This helped me to broaden my horizons and to understand other cultures and perspectives. Overall, my time in the Swiss military has been a precious opportunity for self-development. The skills and lessons I gained have helped me become more disciplined, adaptable, and effective, and these skills continue to serve me well in my business today. It also helped me to understand that self-development is a lifelong process and that I should always strive to improve personally and professionally. Follow me on Instagram, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Mike! Mike Ciabatti, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Mike is a Swiss-American entrepreneur and innovator with a diverse background in both military and private security. He left the security industry to pursue his passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. He has created several successful businesses in various industries and is known for his ability to spot new trends and opportunities. Mike is also a devoted father and loves spending time with his family and dogs in the Swiss Alps. He's a great lover of nature and outdoor activities.

Written by: Omu Obilor, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. There is no doubt that entrepreneurship is a rewarding and challenging career path, but it is also a lonely one. Uncertainty and risk, as well as a unique mindset, are required to make it work. Sometimes it's hard to get the guidance and support you need, and the road to success is not always clear. This is where mentorship and coaching come in. The insights, advice, and guidance of mentors and coaches can be invaluable for entrepreneurs who have been through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. In this article, we will explore the role of mentorship and coaching in entrepreneurial success and how entrepreneurs can find and make the most of a mentor or coach. Read on to know more. The Role of Mentors in Entrepreneurial Success Mentors, being seasoned veterans in the realm of entrepreneurship, possess invaluable knowledge and insight. They can greatly impact the success of entrepreneurs by offering guidance and support through their experiences. Here are some key ways in which a mentor can empower an entrepreneur's journey to success:: Providing Guidance A mentor can provide guidance and advice based on their own experience and industry expertise. This can be invaluable to an entrepreneur initiating or growing a business. A mentor can help entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, avoid typical mistakes, and make informed decisions. Industry Expertise In addition, a mentor can hand over insights and knowledge about the industry in which the entrepreneur is operating. This can benefit entrepreneurs to better understand the market, identify opportunities, and make strategic decisions. A mentor can also guide key business skills such as financial management, marketing, and sales. Networking Opportunities As an added benefit, mentors can provide access to new networking opportunities and introduce entrepreneurs to potential investors or customers. Entrepreneurs can benefit from a mentor's connections and reputation in the industry in addition to access to a wider network of resources. This can help entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and achieve more success. Pros Of Coaching For Entrepreneurial Success Coaching is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs looking to take their businesses to the next level. A coach can provide guidance, support, and accountability that can help entrepreneurs to improve their decision-making, increase productivity and achieve a better work-life balance. Improved decision-making A coach can provide an objective perspective and analytical tools to assist entrepreneurs in evaluating options and making strategic decisions. They can also guide how to develop critical thinking and a strategic mindset that will benefit the entrepreneur in the long run. Increased accountability Coaching ensures regular check-ins and progress tracking, which can help entrepreneurs stay on track and achieve their goals promptly. Coaches also support entrepreneurs establish clear, measurable goals and hold them accountable for progress towards these goals, increasing productivity and efficiency. Personalized Development Coaches work with entrepreneurs to recognize strengths and areas for improvement and assist entrepreneurs in developing a personalized development plan. This allows entrepreneurs to focus on the areas that will have the most impact on their success and achieve goals more efficiently. Maximizing Mentorship & Coaching for Entrepreneurial Success While finding a mentor or coach can be difficult, there are a number of resources that can help. Professional organizations, networking events, and business incubators are all great places to start. You can also reach out to people in your industry or people you admire and ask if they would be willing to mentor or coach you. Once you have found a mentor or coach, it is important to make the most of the relationship by setting clear goals, being open to feedback, and showing appreciation for their time and expertise. Final Thought Mentorship and coaching are essential ingredients for entrepreneurial success. By tapping into the knowledge and experience of a mentor or coach, entrepreneurs gain valuable insights, develop new skills, and overcome challenges with greater ease. Remember, the right mentor or coach can be the key to unlocking your full potential as an entrepreneur as having a mentor or coach by your side can be the difference between success and failure. So, take the time to find the right mentor or coach who aligns with your goals and values, and make the most of their guidance and expertise. Their insights and support can be the driving force behind your entrepreneurial journey, propelling you toward success. Visit Omu's website to learn more! Read more from Omu! Omu Obilor, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Omu is an International Coach, Speaker, Trainer, and Thought Leader. Her mantra is “Living my best life," this she achieves by living Intentionally. Her mission in life is to empower others to live their best life, curating the life they want for themselves. As a founding member of the John Maxwell Team, she has mastered intentional living in personal and professional life. She performs the role of Executive Director and National Trainer in Business Network International (BNI), which empowered her to master training networking. Omu has, over the years, poured out her all into the lives of her clients. Walking them through the various transitions in life and mentoring them through the transformation. She is driven by her passion for helping individuals realize that it is possible to live the life they dream of. Extremely passionate about Transformation in people, she works tirelessly to see this through. Her approach is designed to increase awareness and accountability to increase morale and determine values. She runs a mentor mind group for women looking to grow in their personal and professional lives. She also runs masterminds monthly, amongst others.

Written by: Nadija Bajrami, Senior Level Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Let’s talk about the subconscious mind, how it can be defined, its role in our lives and how hypnosis can help us to harness its power to move forward with confidence. “The power of our subconscious is beyond all measure.” “As you sow in your subconscious mind, so shall you reap in your body and environment.” Quotes by Joseph Murphy (The Power of Your Subconscious Mind) A lot of people think they can control their behaviour and actions in life by having self-control. Are you one of them? The truth is, you can hardly control your actions by self-control only when you consider the driving force behind each action. Before taking any action or making a decision, we usually use our conscious mind, or what we call our rational mind. We associate a lot of our habits at each point in time to our conscious mind. These habits are not only products of our conscious initiatives though as our subconscious mind also plays a key role in making most of our decisions. Habits fuelled by your subconscious mind are beyond what you can control. In order to change your habits to help you move forward in life, you need to understand the difference between your conscious mind and your subconscious mind. You also need the right techniques to reprogram your mind for positive thought patterns and habits to help you overcome any limiting beliefs and create the life you want. We know now that our mind operates on two different levels – the conscious and the subconscious. Both have an important roles to play in our lives and they are always working in conjunction with each other. First, let’s see the specificities of both the conscious and the subconscious minds. Defining the conscious mind The conscious mind involves all the things you are currently aware of and are thinking about. It is anything that is in your current awareness. The thoughts and feelings you are experiencing at the moment, and your awareness of your current environment are all part of your conscious experiences. The conscious mind is limited in capacity and can only do one task at a time. For example, we might be aware of our breathing, the physical sensations in our body, our environment, or the people around us. Defining the subconscious mind The subconscious mind is the habit mind. The subconscious mind oversees critically important, yet rather mundane tasks such as breathing, sleeping, and organ function. But it is also the powerful layer beneath our conscious awareness which is holding on to all the information driving our thoughts, beliefs, actions and behaviours. Examples of subconscious activities are word processing, tying your shoes, and driving ‒ things we do habitually. We can also mention our ability to drive a car: once we pass our driving test and know how to drive a car, we stop thinking which gears to use, which pedals to press, or which mirror to look at… Our subconscious mind just knows how we should operate while driving. But there is so much more to the subconscious mind. The Subconscious can be compared to a huge database, data-bank and a giant memory bank for everything, which is not in your conscious mind. It stores your beliefs, your previous experience, your memories, your skills. Everything that you have seen, done or thought is also there. It is a record of your past. It permanently stores everything that ever happens to you, and its capacity is virtually unlimited. It is also your guidance system. The subconscious mind rules approximately 95 percent of our life, hence it playing such an important part in our life. All of the memories, emotions and beliefs about everything you have ever experienced get stored in the subconscious mind. These are like programmes saved on your computer. Its capacity is virtually unlimited. Our brains have developed the amazing ability to download a large amount of information. By the time you reach the age of 21, you have already permanently stored more than one hundred times the contents of the entire Encyclopaedia Britannica. The subconscious mind is millions of times more powerful than the conscious mind. Why is the subconscious mind so important? The subconscious mind controls basically… Everything! We might think that we are consciously in charge and in control of all that we do daily but that is not really the case. As previously mentioned, the subconscious mind drives 95 percent of our human experience which means that we only use about 5 percent of our conscious activity during the day. The rest is all happening beneath the surface and that is what is running the show. Most of our thoughts, emotions, decisions, and behaviours happen automatically on a subconscious level. This becomes our subconscious programming. And let’s face it, for many of us, the programmes running in our subconscious mind could use a little updating. Because much of what we hold subconsciously sabotages what we consciously want to create. So, if you want to experience real, sustainable change in your life, this is the key that unlocks that potential. Knowing how your subconscious works mean you get to take massive control of your life. The subconscious mind, our faithful servant The subconscious makes sure that you respond exactly the way you have been programmed to. It makes everything you say and does fit a pattern consistent with the programmes you are holding. The programmes could be positive negative or neutral. The subconscious mind does not know the difference between imagination and reality, and it merely obeys the commands it receives from the conscious mind. This is the reason why it is crucial to feed our mind with thoughts that will serve us and that will be for our higher good. I often use the garden metaphor with my clients when I am explaining the conscious and subconscious minds. The conscious mind is the gardener that plants the seeds; the subconscious mind is the fertile soil that allows them to grow. The subconscious mind will faithfully obey any commands from the conscious mind. It is a faithful, unquestioning servant that works relentlessly, making sure it stays in alignment with what is known and familiar. The subconscious mind either grows flowers or weeds depending on what programmes we feed it. Where do our subconscious programmes come from? As previously mentioned, the subconscious mind being that large memory bank only replays what it has learned from everything that happened to us. Every time we experience something or something that happens to us, it becomes a subconscious programme and the brain creates links, pairs and associations with what you see, hear, feel, taste and smell. The majority of these links and programs stem from our early life experiences, primarily before the age of 7. During the first seven years of life, the brain is designed to download programs simply by observing other people (mostly our primary caregivers, loved ones and the community we live in). This occurs in a theta brain state which is similar to a state of hypnosis because consciousness does not really start until around age 7. So, 95 percent of what drives us during the day is coming from programmes we downloaded in our childhood and these programmes were mostly influenced by other present in our lives. As these programmes are deeply embedded in our subconscious mind, they keep running in the background as we grow up and affect our adult life. When we consciously decide to move towards our goals and dreams and create something different in our lives, we often struggle because we are operating from these programmes which we have inherited from other people. The programmes become hardwired in our subconscious mind and control most our life unless we work at changing the programmes that no longer serve us. How do our subconscious programmes affect our daily life? Have you ever felt unworthy, not good enough or just discouraged as despite all the efforts you are putting towards your goals, you end up sabotaging yourself at every turn? You feel you have tried everything but still seem unable to move beyond these feelings, this inner negative talk or self-sabotage. This shows that you are experiencing conflict between the two minds. If you’re not where you want to be in life, no matter how much willpower and techniques you have applied, chances are you have subconscious programmes keeping you firmly stuck where you are. If you are struggling to achieve your goals and move forward, the reason is that somehow, somewhere along the way, a decision or belief was made that you are unworthy, unlovable, based on something you saw, learned, or experienced earlier in life. And this will be the driving force behind your current response (even if it does not necessarily make sense). The subconscious mind, being our habit mind, wants to keep you safe and is resistant to change and firmly keeps you into what is known and familiar. You can, however, create powerful shifts in the subconscious and change the course of your life to replace outdated programmes by new more positive ones which will help you increase your self-confidence, boost your self-esteem and move towards your goals with confidence. And this is when hypnosis becomes an extremely powerful tool and modality to help you shift your mindset and reprogram these subconscious beliefs. What is hypnosis and how it can help us reprogram our subconscious mind? As an award-winning, fully qualified, and accredited hypnotherapist, I can say that hypnosis is a very powerful modality to help you replace any blocks or limiting beliefs that keep you stuck. Hypnosis is a safe and natural state of relaxation with an increased level of awareness during which you are not asleep and are fully in control. You will experience a pleasant state of mind with increased attention and focus. The hypnotic state is similar to some moments in your life when you are daydreaming or fully absorbed in a specific activity like reading for example. There is absolutely nothing to fear as therapeutic and clinical hypnosis is totally different from stage and entertainment hypnosis and as you remain in control, you will never be asked to do anything foolish or against your will. For the hypnotherapy session to be successful, the hypnotherapist must have your consent, collaboration and full commitment as the purpose is to help you reach a feeling of being more in charge and in control of your life. While in a relaxed state of mind, new information can make its way into the subconscious which transforms old beliefs and thought patterns. Hypnosis delves into your subconscious mind to plant positive thoughts and suggestions, which can create meaningful and lasting changes in your thought process. Hypnosis replaces the old with the new. Changing your thinking will change your beliefs, fears, desires, habits, and anything that creates resistance when achieving new things. It is not a passive process. You are actively participating by communicating your goals and what has previously held you back in the past. These goals are to be truly yours, no matter what you desire to obtain or achieve. If you are trying to satisfy social pressure, then hypnotherapy will not help you. The process is about you, your cooperation, your consent, and your participation. More and more of us are beginning to understand how important the subconscious mind is in both helping and sabotaging our efforts to change and be happy. It is widely accepted that most of what we do and what we think is directed by the subconscious. In effect, we spend most of the day on autopilot, our past experiences shaping our responses, moment to moment. When working with a qualified hypnotherapist, you will learn to reframe your thoughts and feelings around any trying or traumatic experiences you went through. As a hypnotherapist I believe I work in a profession which is fantastically placed to help people align with what they really desire in life, appreciate themselves and see their true potential. The memories of the trying or traumatic events and experiences we went through can be extremely painful to deal with and can be really debilitating. Our brain tends to work as a coping mechanism and store these difficult or traumatic moments deep within our subconscious. Hypnosis cannot help you completely delete these bad memories. When you face a trigger that brings you back to a difficult or traumatic experience or event, you become faced with the hugest urge to get it out of your head. However, the harder you try, the more the memories end up coming back into your conscious mind. It is during these tough moments that we would like to just delete these memories. As previously mentioned, hypnosis cannot free you of these difficult or traumatic memories, but it is a very powerful tool and modality to help you heal from these trying memories and move forward. What your mind does as its own form of coping mechanism is it takes your negative, emotionally charged memories and pushes them into your subconscious as a means of protecting you from re-experiencing the pain and trauma. This is what is commonly known as repression. As we may know from experience, the emotions from these memories can be resurfaced from a trigger, which often causes a rollercoaster of emotions and can also create complete paralysis in our minds. When you force yourself to suppress a recent painful memory, the memory is recalled. You then add more importance to the memory as the emotions are being re-triggered. Hypnosis will help manage those memories in a more productive and healthier way. Memories, with their associated thoughts and emotions, are adaptable and flexible, making us open to suggestions and more able to accept small changes to some of their original meaning. You can change what a particular memory means to you, how you feel about it, and how you respond to it when you create and attach new pairs and associations and narratives to that memory. Hypnosis is your reframing tool to change and “re-edit” the memories in your mind and your negative pairs and associations with a memory. Hypnosis will help you change how you remember rather than the “raw” memory itself, by releasing the emotional response to the memory you release the symptom. Using hypnosis, we plant new seeds in your subconscious mind which will then take root and grow. When that happens, you can take pleasure in knowing that your subconscious mind is working for you. And once those changes are completed and have become part of your mental processes, these changes will emerge into consciousness in the form of a new feeling of confidence, belief and acceptance that you are becoming the best that you can be. This is when you become the driver of your life, move towards our goals with confidence and optimism and take care of the vehicle that is in your mind. Hope this gives you a better understanding of the subconscious mind, how it can be defined, its role in our lives and the power of hypnosis to harness its power to move forward in life with confidence. Follow Nadija on her Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, and visit her website for more info. Read more from Nadija! Nadija Bajrami, Senior Level Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine French by birth, Nadija has lived in Scotland for 7 years and has traveled the world. After recovering from some serious health issues, Nadija had a wake-up call and came to Ireland to find her path. She has been living in Dublin since 2017. Nadija is an empowerment specialist and holds a double diploma in Hypnotherapy, Mind Coaching, and online therapy. She is dedicated to helping her clients get empowered, supercharge their confidence and self-esteem, overcome their limiting beliefs as well as manage anxiety, and symptoms of traumatic experiences and help people on their grief and healing journey through her therapy, coaching, and spiritual work.

Written by: Angela Cusack, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Women leaders, me included, yearn for deeper and more satisfying relationships with one another and our male counterparts. We often feel frustrated by the countless misunderstandings and struggles of finding the right words to express ourselves and build connections that lead to the ultimate sense of belonging, where we freely express our thoughts, offer our perspectives, and share concerns. If our own experience weren't enough, decades of research confirm that men and women listen, process, and speak differently. Our communication styles are informed by where we hear from—women tend to seek understanding and affinity. In contrast, men tend to be pragmatic and direct. This is, of course, a generalization. Yet as leaders, and coaches of leaders, having insight into the fundamental differences of gender orientation is the first step toward coaching woman leaders on more complex issues that we face as we set our sights on and claim our seats at the C-suite table. In my experience as an executive and now as a coach to women aspiring to or with those who already hold an executive leadership position, the number one unspoken struggle women face revolves around their narratives about power and politics. Who has it? How do I get it? What does it mean? Do I want it? Once I have it, then what? A woman's relationship with power and politics is central to this genuine struggle. It is at the root of suffering that often goes unmentioned, yet far from unnoticed. It reveals itself through our experiences of shame, blame, self-doubt, and guilt. It reveals itself when our focus is on "me" versus "we"; withdrawal and silence "to go along to get along." It reveals itself when women believe there's only enough room for one at the C-suite table and become overly protective of their place in line. For the conversation to shift, we must purposefully explore our relationship with power from an individual, social, and systemic context. Mary Beard wrote a slim yet potent book, Women and Power: A Manifesto, based on two lectures she delivered in 2014 and 2017, both focusing on silencing women's voices in the public sphere. Taking all this into account, coaches can offer women leaders a psychologically safe space to get in touch with, examine, and develop new narratives about power and politics that inform and influence future choices about who they are being as they lead and how they can positively influence their organization’s social structures. Generative Interpretations: Power is your capacity to act and produce an outcome that takes care of what matters to you. Politics is the authority you possess to be in "the" conversations where declarations and decisions are made about the future. Traditionally, woman leaders (including many men) experience power and politics as a selfish enterprise—a game we proudly profess we are not playing, no matter the cost. This avoidance points to the underlying belief that the purpose of power is taking versus taking care. I know this story all too well. Until I was introduced to these generative distinctions in 2009 by Bob Dunham, founder of The Institute for Generative Leadership, I falsely believed that my executive status resulted from my drive, astute business acumen, intellectual and organizational savvy plus much luck but certainly not because I somehow mastered this selfish little game of "taking." Like me, women leaders who arrive at the C-suite making a similar claim leave their power on the proverbial table. For me—and for the women, I work with—a slight turn of our internal kaleidoscope reveals a new understanding, appreciation, and relationship with power and politics. Own your power. Breaking traditional views of power and politics is the first step in coaching women leaders. I've found it helpful to work within the context of business while supporting the discovery of the unconscious narratives that have been freely passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years, such as: Power belongs only to a select few. Power is gained by taking it from others. Power is synonymous with money and position. Power is authority and control over others. Power is selfish. Power is rarely understood as the social and systemic context we live in and must navigate. It lives undetected in the background—just out of view. It's an unspoken spoken norm for living that keeps women and men stuck in the unresolved spiral of what we perceive "is." Our role as reflective partners and coaches is to illuminate and help women move forward with authenticity, strength, ease, and grace. No matter where we are in the world, power and politics are non-discretionary rules within the game of business and, for that matter, life. If we do not, we will be missing a critical opportunity to break the cycle of our historical patterns that hold women and our world back from innovations, technologies, and, ultimately, healing. Preparing women and men for the C-suite begins by inviting them to dive deep into this phenomenon, revealing their fundamental biases, beliefs, and relationship with these constructs. Follow me on LinkedIn, Twitter, Youtube, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Angela! Angela Cusack, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Angela Cusack is often referred to as an organization’s secret weapon. She is understated, patient, and moves with ease as she partners with executive leaders in defining and shaping cultures that produce deeper connections, higher engagement, and overall well-being and prosperity for all involved. Angela is an impact player. Her presence is felt throughout an organization even if she can only be found coaching and consulting within the C-suite. The new insights, actions, and results that arise from working with Angela are undeniable and impact more than just one’s professional life. Angela wholeheartedly believes that “who you are is how you lead”.

Written by: Anne-Sophie Reinhardt, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Leadership requires a high level of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience to navigate complex situations and make effective decisions. One of the most critical components of this inner foundation is feeling safe within your body. As a leader, you are constantly facing new challenges and responsibilities. From making important decisions that impact others to managing high-stress situations, leadership can be demanding. That's why it's crucial to have a strong foundation and sense of inner peace to help you stay grounded and focused. When you feel physically and emotionally safe, you can think clearly, communicate authentically, and access your full range of skills and abilities. This safety creates a sense of stability and grounding, allowing you to respond to challenges and changes with grace and poise. Also, when you feel safe, you are more likely to inspire and motivate others, creating a positive and supportive work environment. On the other hand, when you are in a state of stress or fear, your body activates the fight or flight response, narrowing your focus and limiting your ability to think critically and creatively. This state can lead to poor decision-making, decreased ambition to collaborate, and ineffective communication. Moreover, when you are under stress, it can impact your mood, behavior, and interactions with others, which then leads to a negative work environment. So, how can you cultivate a sense of safety within your body? Here are a few practical tips to help you get started: Practice mindfulness and self-awareness: Take time to connect with your body, understand your triggers, and identify patterns of stress and tension. This can be done through meditation, journaling, or other mindfulness practices. Regularly engaging in self-reflection can help you understand your emotions and thought patterns, allowing you to respond to stress in a more productive and positive way. Engage in physical activity: Regular physical activity can help release stress, improve mental clarity, and boost feelings of well-being. Whether it's yoga, running, or lifting weights, finding a physical activity that you enjoy can help you maintain a healthy mind and body. Connect with nature: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of safety. Whether it's hiking, gardening, or simply taking a walk, spending time in nature can help you connect with your environment and rejuvenate your spirit. Establish boundaries: Setting healthy boundaries is essential to feeling safe in your body. This includes limiting exposure to toxic people, environments, or situations, and learning to say no when necessary. By protecting your physical and emotional well-being, you can reduce stress and increase feelings of safety. Seek support: Building a strong support network of trusted friends, family, or colleagues can provide a sense of safety and help you manage stress and challenges. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with those you trust can help you gain a fresh perspective and reduce feelings of stress and isolation. Feeling safe within your body is critical to effective leadership. By prioritizing self-awareness, physical wellness, and healthy relationships, leaders can cultivate a strong foundation for success and resilience. This inner foundation will help you stay focused, motivated, and engaged, allowing you to lead with confidence and inspire others. Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Anne! Anne-Sophie Reinhardt, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Anne-Sophie Reinhardt works with women who crave a deep sense of belonging – to themselves, their bodies and this life. Having worked as a Body-Mind and Life Coach since 2021, she has developed unique tools, insights and intuition (one of her superpowers) that allow her to quickly get to the root of her clients’ struggles, so they can clear their neurology, reconnect with their true essence and live their boldly magnificent life. An expert in her field, she has been quoted extensively on popular media and is a regular speaker drawing from her lived experience from no sense of self to deep self-love and the highest commitment to living her truth. Se is shining her light, so that others can do the same.

Written by: Stacey Brake , Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. The only good news here is that people are talking about it. One problem with treatment is that many have thought of anxiety as a mental disorder… a mind problem. Much of the approved treatments focus specifically on the mind. One of the most widely accepted treatments of anxiety is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Another common treatment is prescribed medications. There are two primary problems with these common approaches. First, medication is intended to temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms so that a person can address the root cause. This isn’t how medication is currently being used. Most people I have known are taking the medication with the belief that something is inherently wrong with them, they are broken. The medication is seen as the fix or the cure. They believe that living with the side effects is just part of life for them. Many of the medications lose their effectiveness over time so patients must continue to take higher and higher doses. Let me be really clear here. I’m not saying medication has no place. I’m saying, it shouldn’t be the only treatment solution that clients are given. Cognitive Therapy can be used effectively for multiple problems/disorders. However, there is a problem when using this for anxiety treatment. The problem is that we think of anxiety as a problem in our minds. Often, one of the symptoms of anxiety is worried or anxious thoughts. So, it’s natural to believe that anxiety comes exclusively from the mind. What the latest research has found, is that trauma is often stored in the body, which triggers anxiety and then anxious thoughts. So, anxious thoughts can cause anxious feelings. But, we can’t overlook the fact that trauma stored in the body can actually cause anxious thoughts. So CT only addresses one piece of this issue…your mind. So, if it’s not a mental problem, how do we treat it? If the anxiety is caused by trauma stored in the body. Then the best way to treat the anxiety is to treat the trauma through the body. There are multiple ways to do this and research is continuing to grow in this area. But, let me share a few of my favorites. Somatic Therapy is body-oriented therapy. The goal is to treat the trauma, anxiety, or PTSD by focusing on the body while revisiting the trauma. As you bring it to mind, you may notice the experience in your body. Then, seek to address the pain in the body through breath work, massage, dance, visualization or meditation. Emotional Freedom Technique, also referred to as EFT or tapping, is a beautiful way to soothe anxiety. To practice EFT, you tap on meridian (or acupressure) points on your body while talking out the feelings and thoughts that you are having. Through this process, you can soothe anxious feelings by sending soothing signals to your brain. What’s really great about EFT is that it’s easy to learn and do on your own. Since you can access this treatment outside of a therapist's office, you can practice anytime. Practicing more often can lead to quicker and longer-lasting results. EMDR is another type of therapy with a growing body of successful research in treating trauma. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This technique uses alternating bilateral stimulation to help reorient our experience and reintegrate traumatic events. Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk is a leading trauma treatment expert, possibly best known for his book, “The Body Keeps the Score”. He says “if the body feels safe, the mind feels safe.” EMDR is a type of therapy that is practiced which supports patients in to process of severe trauma to heal and live a happier and more fulfilled life. Somatic Therapy, EFT, and EMDR are all proven effective treatments for anxiety. None of these have been found to have harmful side effects. As we talk more openly about anxiety and our struggles with mental health. I hope that we can also talk more about some of the amazing treatments that can be both life-changing and uncomplicated. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn for more info! Read more from Stacey! Stacey Brake, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Stacey Brake is leading the charge in mental health education. Anxiety Detox is the solution for those who suffer from anxiety but don't want to go to therapy. This online program is designed to help you reduce your anxiety and reconnect with your joy. With Stacey Brake's 18 years of experience in mental health, she has created a program that is simple, easy to follow, and most importantly, effective.

Written by: Dr. Allen Lycka, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Non-negotiables are what we hold as absolute truths, the principles and values that guide our decisions and actions. They are the foundation upon which we build our lives and relationships and are essential to our personal and professional success. In my years of teaching and coaching, I have found that the most successful people have a clear understanding of their non-negotiables and live by them daily. In addition, these individuals have a strong sense of purpose and can navigate the challenges and obstacles that life throws their way with grace and determination. So, what are non-negotiables, and how can we use them to create the life we truly want? First, let's define what non-negotiables are not. They are not goals, which are specific outcomes we want to achieve. Rather, non-negotiables are the underlying principles and values that guide our actions and decisions. For example, one of my non-negotiables is honesty. This principle guides my interactions with others and shapes how I conduct myself personally and professionally. Non-negotiables are also not flexible. They are not something that can be compromised or negotiated. They are non-negotiable. Now, let's talk about how to identify your non-negotiables. The first step is to take some time to reflect on what is truly important to you. What are the principles and values that you hold dear? What are the things that you would never compromise on? These are your non-negotiables. Some examples of non-negotiables include honesty, integrity, authenticity, compassion, and respect. Once you have identified your non-negotiables, writing them down and making them a part of your daily life is essential. Keep them somewhere visible, like on a bulletin board or in your planner, so that you are reminded of them every day. Once you have your non-negotiables, you must use them to guide your decisions and actions. When faced with a difficult decision or a challenging situation, ask yourself how your non-negotiables apply. For example, if one of your non-negotiables is honesty, and you are faced with a decision requiring you to be dishonest, you know that the decision does not align with your values. It's also important to remember that non-negotiables are not just for personal use. They can also be applied in professional settings. In any business or organization, non-negotiables provide a framework for decision-making and serve as a compass for the company's direction. In addition, having a clear set of non-negotiables helps to ensure that all employees are on the same page and working towards the same goals. In conclusion, non-negotiables are the principles and values that guide our decisions and actions. They are the foundation upon which we build our lives and relationships and are essential to personal and professional success. By identifying and living by our non-negotiables, we can create the life we truly want and navigate the challenges and obstacles that life throws our way with grace and determination. Dr Allen Lycka is the host and executive director rector of the syndicated radio show How to Live a Fantastic Life on AmFM 24/7 with 4.3 million listeners a month. He is also a three 3x international best-selling author including the renowned "How to Live A Fantastic Life" with an intro by NYT's best-selling author Jack Canfield of Chicken Soup for the Soul fame. You can find more at DrAllenLycka.com and his community at FantasticLiving.ca Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Youtube, or visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. Allen! Dr. Allen Lycka, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Dr. Allen Lycka is acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world. In 2003, Dr. Lycka was diagnosed with ALS and given six months to live. After fighting the diagnosis, he is here today as a result of his courage and tenacity. Having been given a “golden ticket” Dr. Lycka used his experience to co-author the books The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life with Harriet Tinka, Pillars of Success with 1 New York Times Best Selling Author Jack Canfield and bLU volume 1 with Corey Poirier. He is the host and executive director of How To Live a Fantastic Life show with 4 million listeners per episode. He is a sought-after speaker.