It's Time for Motivational Speeches!

I was watching the Today Show this morning, and they reported on a recent Gallup poll that suggested that people in the US are feeling down about the times.  Apparently high gas prices, falling home values, debt, climate change, and politics are causing some of us to feel rather pessimistic about the future.  Pessimistic and fearful.

I can relate.  I don't want to be whiny about my life, because in the grand scheme of things, I have it pretty good.  But I understand what it feels like to be concerned for the future.

After showing the results of this Gallup poll, the Today Show then brought on motivational speaker, Tony Robbins.  I'm sure you've seen him before--very tall, handsome man who speaks in a low voice about taking charge of your emotions and your life.  Listening to him was admittedly a little inspiring (he obviously has that ability, given his million-dollar business as a motivator).  He encouraged people to recognize their fears and emotional habits, and then use them to make the most of the circumstances.  Easier said than done, right?

One thing he did mention that I liked was that troubling times are fertile soil for creativity and ingenuity.  Sort of a "necessity breeds innovation" philosophy.  I happen to agree.  Yes, the times are challenged.  I'm uncomfortable.  I look into the future and worry a bit.  But, I also look at my neighborhood and see a lot of potential.  I see other women who, if connected, could support each other through these times.  I see tons of creativity and innovation just waiting to burst forth.  I see opportunities to share resources, nurture small business, and take leadership.  

Now, I'm no Tony Robbins.  But I do think that if we take the time to invest in each other, and to practice some of the things we've been talking about these last several weeks (like supporting micro-business, using our "relational currency," and being "rooted" leaders), that our efforts might bear good fruit even in unstable times.  It's worth a shot, don't you think?

Daily Dose

I confess that after reviewing today's headlines, I am at a bit of a loss on what to post about.  I could talk about yesterday's Super Bowl, but I doubt an audience of primarily female readers would appreciate that (although the end really was spectacular to watch).  I could discuss Super Tuesday (certainly everyone else is), but I have to confess that though I do follow politics, I'm not prone to writing about them.  I could write about the economy, since January's employment numbers are coming in (hiring is apparently slipping), but even I'm a little bored by the coverage on it.  

So, I guess instead of covering the news, I'll just encourage you to get a dose of it yourself, by visiting some of my favorite links for staying informed.  

Christian Science Monitor: some people might be turned off by the name, and it is true that there are some religious aspects to this newspaper.  However, I first learned about the paper attending Colorado State University from my political science teacher, and quickly learned why she was a fan: the news coverage is exceptional, particularly from the international correspondents.  Plus, a lot of their stories are written by staffers as opposed to the AP Wire, which makes them a little more independent than a lot of other sources.

The New York Times: I confess I'm a little overwhelmed by the vastness of their site, but the NYTimes does offer a little bit of everything.  One top reason to check them out would be their blogs--and there are many of them--written by some well-respected intellectuals and commentators.  I personally like Thomas Friedman (who is apparently on assignment currently) and the fellows from Freakonomics.

National Public Radio: probably my all-time favorite source for news, probably because you can catch it in the car running errands or on the way to work.  I even listen to it while I'm working out (I know...it's a little strange).  I love Marketplace report and Talk of the Nation "Science Friday."  And their podcasts are highly revered in the news community.

So, when you have some time, check them out.  Part of being "adornable" is knowing what is going on in the world, so I try to treat the headlines like they are my daily multivitamin, and invite you to do the same.