manforallseasons1987 Spiritual Life

Prayer in Motion in the House or on the Road

Consider how much time we spend “in motion.” This being “in motion” takes into account all the times we move around the house, going upstairs and downstairs. It involves going outside and back inside the house. 

Then consider the time you are in motion on the road – travelling to and form work. While this would be very different in smaller areas (towns and villages) it is for the average city person a great deal of time spent on the road. 

In Canada (2019) drivers spent an average of 24 minutes commuting to work (and then there is driving back home). In Vancouver the average commuting time is 67 minutes IF they leave for work between 5:00am and 7:00am. 

Do a quick mental calculation of all the times you spend at traffic lights and stop signs. 

From the time we get up till the time we go to bed we human beings spend a fair bit of time in motion. If we want to make of our day a pleasing sacrifice to God or a more pleasing sacrifice to God, then it is important we take advantage of at least some of the moments in motion. 

When you drive leave the radio off and pray your rosary. Use a finger rosary – one that fits like a ring. Do not use the longer one that could get tangled and cause you to be distracted. 

So today resolve to use your vocal prayers (like the Hail Mary or Memorare, the Rosary while driving) and spontaneous prayers while going through the house or at work (quietly of course). Simple examples are – Jesus, I love you; Mary, I love you; Guardian Angel help me now and the list goes on. 

Nothing complicated about this – you only need determination and love. 

Use all of that motion to help make of your day a more pleasing offering to God. 

Fr Hamilton 

manforallseasons1987 Leadership

Today’s Tip Break Up Your Day with a Walk

If you’ve been working from home for most of the past year, you may find yourself hitting a wall. WFH burnout is real — so it’s important to do what you can to give yourself a boost throughout the workday. Don’t underestimate the power of going for a walk (or, if you’re unable to walk, spending some time outside). Here are five reasons to walk with purpose. 
Perspective. Especially in these trying times, getting outside and reconnecting with nature can help broaden your perspective in a healthy way.Connection. Invite a friend or family member to join you in person if it’s doable, safe, and responsible, or over the phone if it isn’t.Learning. Try listening to an audiobook, podcast, or webinar to stimulate your mind with new information.Gratitude. It’s easy to get bogged down in the negative these days. What if you used your time outside to focus on what you’re thankful for?Productivity. Walking doesn’t always have to be a break from work — it can just be a break from sitting at your desk all day. Which meetings or phone calls could you do on the go?This tip is adapted from “Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Walk,” by Deborah Grayson Riegel
manforallseasons1987 Leadership

How to Give Critical Feedback — Remotely

Today’s Tip 
How to Give Critical Feedback — Remotely
Giving critical feedback is one of your most challenging responsibilities as a manager — and if you’re working remotely, it’s even harder. How can you update your approach to giving feedback in a WFH world? Here are some key steps to keep in mind: 
Start by asking questions. You need to understand your employee’s perception of their performance before expressing yours.Show specific appreciation before laying out criticism. They’ll be more likely to be receptive to your feedback if they trust that you value them.State your positive intentions. Something as simple as “I’m in your corner” can go a long way.Clarify and contrast. “I’m saying X, I’m not saying Y.”Ask your employee to state their key takeaways from the conversation.We’re all under intense stress from the pandemic. Taking care to deliver your feedback with clarity and sensitivity will help people focus on the reality of your message, even in a remote environment.
This tip is adapted from “Giving Critical Feedback Is Even Harder Remotely,” by Therese Huston