About two months ago, I was called as an Elders Quorum teacher. Having taught before, my "tried-and-true" method usually involved coasting until Saturday, skimming the talk, and throwing together a slide deck at the last minute. However, the presidency threw me a curveball during our orientation meeting. Instead of the usual "good luck" pat on the back, the counselor, Hunter, laid out a specific, detailed plan for success that included deep study, intentional coordination with the other teacher, and strict stake guidelines. I left that meeting stunned and frankly a bit skeptical about whether all this extra homework was actually necessary.

Despite my apprehension, I decided to trust the process. For the first week, I immersed myself in the talk, cross-referencing scriptures and feeling a genuine love for the material grow. I coordinated with the other teacher, whose excitement matched mine and who offered insights I never would have found on my own. By the time I sat down to outline my lesson a week in advancea personal recordI found myself revising and refining until the final plan looked nothing like my first draft. By Saturday morning, I had a simple slide deck ready, not as a crutch to read from, but as a compliment to a lesson I actually knew inside and out.

The real payoff came the next day in church. As I sat through Sacrament meeting, it felt like the speakers had peeked at my notes; they were teaching principles that perfectly aligned with my prepared lesson. For the first time, I wasn't sweating over slides or worrying about filling time. Instead, I felt like the windows of heaven were opening to aid me. I realized I had never felt this prepared, excited, or spiritually connected to a teaching assignment before.

I share this story because, frankly, I didnt know what it meant to magnify a calling until that experience. I learned that magnifying is much more than just hitting the minimum requirements and bringing a bag of donuts to distract from a lack of preparation. I learned that it means taking ownership of the outcome, seeing the people you serve through the Saviors eyes, and preparing honestly. As cheesy as it sounds, simply doing your best allows the Lord to bless your efforts; He opens doors that may have felt locked for decades.

Importantly, this principle doesnt end at the chapel doors. In my short time here at the Office of IT, Ive realized that the same rules apply to our professional lives. Magnifying your job isn't just about clocking in and doing the bare minimum. It means taking ownership of results, considering the people who benefit from our work, and preparing thoughtfully to give our best effort every day.

Consider how many mundane tasks we do at work on a day-to-day basis. The stand ups we attend, the documentation we create, even the time cards we submit. Consider how your thoughts towards these tasks might change if you desire to magnify your work. Asking questions like How can I bring more energy to the meetings I attend? or Could I add a little humor or insight to the report that Im writing? or even How can I make this process smoother and more efficient? is a key to magnifying. Simply put, taking initiative to create positive change, no matter how small, can be a way for God to magnify your efforts from Monday to Friday and on Sunday.

I invite you to consider how you can magnify your work just as you would a church calling. Really, everything we do should reflect our desire to glorify Godeven our spreadsheets, our emails, and our mandatory meetings. My invitation is to make our 9-to-5 a testament to our faith, not just a way to pay the bills. I promise God will bless us in ways we didnt know were possible.

Recently I was at a stake conference where our stake president had us think about the most important things in our lives.

He said if we are too busy for the most important things in our lives then we are too busy

All of us are working part time as well as going to school while trying to live a social life and so time can be a scarcity.

I am not perfect at time management, and it is always something that I am trying to improve on. When my stake president mentioned we can be too busy it made me think of if there were any things in my life that I might have been neglecting.

President Oaks once gave a famous talk titled Good, Better, Best. I realized that there may have been some good things that I was doing but there may be some of the best things I could be focusing on.

Personally, I want to be better at making time for dates with my wife. Whether it be going out to eat or going bowling or just going for a small picnic, time spent where we can just talk is very important to us. There are some things that I may need to sacrifice to make sure I have time to spend with my wife.

Its like this lovely picture you see here of the jar with rocks and sand. In primary I was taught that as you put the sand first then the rocks everything doesnt fit, but if you put the rocks first then the sand then everything fits.

As I think of what my priorities are I am trying to put the most important things first and then the things that arent the most important I am fitting in around them.

I am trying every day to be a little better so that I am never too busy for the most important things.

During a class of mine called Character Mask (a class in which we dress in black, put on masks that have large or interesting expressions, and act as though we are these characters), I was lying on the ground behind a wall of blocks, holding a stuffed animal with one arm just above the blocks to make it look like an alligator was swimming around to the audience on the other side of the wall. After doing this for about a minute, I had to take a moment to just laugh. My professor came and poked his head over the wall, asking if I was alright. And I said, while still laughing what am I getting a degree in?

As I have been in the process of applying to masters programs, Ive been forced to take a lot of time to look at myself and my life. A major part of this application process, as it is with most graduate degrees, is my statement of purpose. Writing an essay expressing why this field is so important to me, and why I belong in the masters program that Im applying to. Outside of just that essay, some of the applications ask me even more questions, things like what kind of shows do you enjoy? Or what are some things youve done to fulfill this passion outside of school?

If you ever have a spare minute, I think that its worth asking yourself some of these things. Because when you know who you are, and why youre doing what youre doing, youre much better able to answer the question of where to next?

As Ive spent time working on this, Ive been able to remind myself why it is that I perform, and Ive reminded myself just how much my life depends on that. Whatever field it is that youre in, everything that you do today is going to take you to where youre going next. So give yourself some time to pause, perform a sort of internal retrospective, and then keep going, youre gonna be better off.

At the end of my class, my professor came up to me, with an answer to my somewhat rhetorical question. He told me that while its crazy, and weird, when we do these things, and we have the skill and dedication needed, all of these steps we take create magic and joy for those watching. I believe that that is true in my field, and I believe that there are equivalent answers for every other field. Once you figure out what that is, there is very little that can stop you.

Finals week is understandable, a very stressful time, this previous semester was no different. While trying to juggle all the competing responsibilities I had inadvertently mixed up my exam schedule. I had tests scheduled for Friday and Saturday and I had inadvertently mixed up the dates of the test. I distinctly remember walking into the classroom and realized that I had studied for the wrong test.

After feeling flustered for the first 10 minutes and trying to get into the right headspace, I realized that I was not as focused as I could have been. I felt confident in the general concepts of the class and took a minute to remind myself of that. After some deep breaths and silent prayers, I tried to make the best out of a bad situation. As I progressed through the test, concepts kept coming up as I recalled learning various concepts in class. I was able to get a good score and was very grateful for the ability to compose myself during the test and get focused.

In our lives we will all have these moments where life throws us a curve ball and we will feel flustered and out of control. In these moments I believe that we can still come out feeling good feeling successful. We can learn that as take deep breaths and trust in our training and our Heavenly Father, all things can work out for our benefit.

After a long and cold winter, spring finally shows up. The sun shines a little brighter, the days warm up, and it starts feeling like summer is just around the corner. And honestly? That makes it hard to stay focused. Our brains want to check out, but finals, projects, and last-minute assignments are just getting started. It can feel like were running out of gas right when the road gets steepest.

But heres the thingthis is when determination really kicks in. Its not about pushing through perfectly or never feeling tired. Its about remembering why you started in the first place. Maybe its to graduate, or maybe its tied to why you chose some of your classes. Why is it important to finish strong? Why keep your grades upor recover them if needed? Try breaking things into smaller pieces, give yourself credit for small wins, and surround yourself with positivity. Rememberwere almost done with school, and well finally be able to enjoy long sunny evenings without thinking about the next assignment. Summers comingand itll feel even better knowing you gave your best.

And dont forget, the Lord sees our efforts. Even when its just finishing a paper or showing up to class when you're exhausted, He honors diligence. As Doctrine and Covenants 58:2627 teaches, we arent meant to be commanded in all thingsbut to be anxiously engaged in good causes. Finishing strong isnt just about schoolits about becoming the kind of disciple who shows up and keeps going, even when its tough. Weve got more in us than we think, and with the Lords help, weve totally got this.

When I started college, feedback felt intimidating. Whether it was a professors comments on an essay or a teammates input during a group project, I couldnt help but feel it was more about criticism than improvement. But over time, I realized that feedback, when approached with the right mindset, can be one of the most valuable tools for growth.

Shifting How You See Feedback

One of the biggest lessons Ive learned is that feedback isnt about pointing out whats badits about showing where you can grow. A wise AI bot once said, Its not about what you did wrong, its about what you can do better. That shift in perspective made a huge difference for me. Instead of dreading feedback, I started looking at it as a chance to sharpen my skills, whether in academics, group projects, or personal pursuits.

Seeking Feedback Proactively

Waiting for feedback to come to you is passiveand you might miss out on valuable insights. I found that asking specific questions like How can I make this section clearer? or Whats one thing youd change about my approach? leads to much more useful advice than a vague What do you think? This approach also shows others that youre open and willing to improve, which often encourages more honest and helpful responses. Staying Open and Calm Hearing feedback can be tough, especially when youve worked hard on something. Ive learned that the key is to listen without reacting defensively. Instead of focusing on how the feedback makes me feel, I try to focus on what I can learn from it. It helps to remind yourself that feedback isnt personalits about the work, not you.

Making Feedback Actionable

Feedback is most effective when you turn it into steps you can act on. For example, if someone tells you your presentation is too wordy, break it down: revise your slides to use bullet points, practice summarizing key ideas, and get someone to review your updated version. Small, specific actions make it easier to implement feedback and see results.

Using Feedback Everywhere

What surprised me most is how feedback applies beyond serious situations like school or work. Whether its improving how you explain ideas to friends, refining a hobby, or even cooking a better meal, feedback can make a difference in unexpected ways. The key is staying open to suggestions and experimenting with changeseven small ones.

Final Thoughts

Feedback can feel intimidating, but its one of the most powerful ways to grow. By seeking it out, listening without defensiveness, and acting on it step by step, youll see improvements in areas you didnt even expect. Whether its for your next essay, a group project, or a hobby you love, embracing feedback is a skill that pays off every time.

In high school I was on the Cross-Country team. I enjoyed feeling the comradery and friendship that comes from being on a team like that. It was a great experience for me to learn core values such as hard work, dedication, and teamwork. However, looking back, none of those lessons stand as clear as the lesson I learned about believing in others.

To illustrate, I want to share a story, it was in the middle of our season and we had a race at Antelope Island (an island in the Great Salt Lake). Some of our top runners who usually won the races were resting for a different race later that week. As I prepared for the race, everything was going just as every race beforehand except for one thing.

During warmups the runners who were sitting up would occasionally come up to me and offer their words of encouragement. They would say things like you got this one man or this is your race to win. Frankly I was shocked when I heard them say things like this. I had never won a race before and had never even been in the top 10 before. After my initial shock of hearing phrases like this and after a couple more people started coming up to me, I started to believe that I could have a chance winning the race. Things started to change, I became more focused on my warmups, suddenly even the small routine things I usually found boring seemed to have immense importance. At the start of the race instead of starting in the middle of the pack I started in the front. During the race I heard my teammates cheering me on and offering words of encouragement. Incredibly, I found myself pulling away and won the race.

As I look back at the race, I give full credit to my team and their belief in me. I do not believe that I would have won the race or even thought I could have won the race if it werent for my teammates first believing in me.

This brings up an important concept. That often times, the belief that we have in our team members and their abilities can sometimes make all the difference in the world. John C Maxwell said,

Believing in people before they have proved themselves is the key to motivating people to reach their potential.

In whatever team we are in, whether it is our family, work, or friends, It is remarkable what people can accomplish when we show that we believe and support them. I learned this firsthand with my Cross-Country team and I believe this principle can help improve the lives of the people around us.

In our teams here at OIT we can share with people what we think they can do and then most importantly share with them that we believe in them. In a world where negativity prevails so often, it is wonderful to hear from one of your peers the words I believe in you.

Before I became a student coach at BYU, I had the opportunity to work as a team member of the Mo Bettahs staff in Spanish Fork. Mo Bettahs, which is a Hawaiian fast-food chain here in Utah, delivers on making delicious Hawaiian-style food and giving the customer an authentic Hawaiian experience. My time there taught me invaluable lessons about efficiency, teamwork, and consistency.

One of the most profound lessons I learned was about the concept of pono. Pono is a Hawaiian word that can have many different meanings, but the most common definition is that of righteousness, balance and moral integrity. In the workplace, we were encouraged to live pono, which was usually accompanied with a team cheer before we started our shift: 1-2-3, Pono! as we raised our hands together from the hand stack.

The more I worked, the clearer it became that living pono wasnt just a slogan but an essential part of our routine. We began every shift with a pono cheer, and I began to see the intricacy of pono in our work. Living pono meant respecting others, taking responsibility, and approaching every task with integrity. Over time, I came to see every task as a chance to practice integrity. Whether by ensuring accuracy in an order or supporting teammates during busy hours, I realized that small actions rooted in pono can have big impacts.

Working at Mo Bettahs helped me learn to carry the values of pono and integrity beyond work, and apply the pono spirit to any of lifes challenges. It taught me that true integrity is about consistently showing up for others and doing whats right, even in the smallest moments.

They say that the most important things are right in front of you. That can be easy to see at times, and hard to see at others. What is most important to you? Your family? Your hobbies? Your profession? Whatever you choose, it is not hard to see that thing in and around your life if you choose to focus on it. Sometimes, though, when we look at our own professional and personal development, it's easy to exclusively focus on the big picture, on the you that you want to see years from now. To be that you, it takes more than thinking about that person who is ten years away.

In this blog post, I wanted to look at myself, I wanted to look at the person who has been sure of where he is going in life for the last ten years and look at what hes been doing to get there.

The inspiration for this post comes from a change I have recently made in my own life. For as long as I have known about higher education, I have wanted it. Ive wanted to be an actor for just as long, which has meant a personal goal of getting a BFA and then an MFA in acting. In recent months as I have been working on my bachelor's here at BYU, I noticed a pattern in myself. Looking ahead to that goal of an MFA had skewed my vision. I knew that I wanted to get a Masters, and I knew that I wanted one from a great school, namely Yale. In order to go there, however, I told myself that I need a 4.0 GPA in my major. This is a goal that I have been able to keep to, but the problem here came when I noticed exactly what my goal was. I needed that 4.0, that was the goal. I needed that GPA so that I had the best chances of getting into Yale. But why did I want to go to Yale? I wanted to go to Yale so that I could become the best actor possible.

When I realized what my actual goal was, I had to take a look at myself. Was the work I was doing in my classes now making me a better actor, or was the work I was doing in my classes now getting me a good grade? While both could be true at the same time, up till now, it wasnt. Yes I was learning techniques and skills, but I was not applying them in the best ways that I could, I was coasting on talent I had already had, to ensure I was getting good grades. The improvements to my acting could wait till my Masters, because thats where I would actually learn. This is not, and should not be the case.

As this fall semester has started, I put a new goal in my mind. I want to take everything that I learn from my classes, and apply them to myself as an actor. I want to be the best actor that BYU has ever seen. By fulfilling this goal, will I get straight As, and will I get to Yale? Probably, and who knows. What I do know, is that by focusing on what I can do to improve myself now, I will be getting closer to that me that I want to be ten years from now every single day.

Yes, look at the big picture, who do you want to be? But then you need to ask yourself, what can I do here and now to get there. Because doing that thing right here and now is what will take you there.

Managing schoolwork, employment, and maintaining a social life can be overwhelming. Balancing these responsibilities, along with additional commitments, often leaves little time for self-care. Personally, I understand how busy life can get when you try to juggle it all. Im currently taking as many credits as possible, working 20 hours a week (and Id work more if I could), fulfilling two church callings, and still making time for social activities, whether with friends or on dates. Add to that the need to stay healthy by exercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep, and it can feel like theres no time left for yourself.

When life gets this hectic, its important to remember that we dont have to handle everything on our own. We have support, whether it comes from friends, family, a coach, or a doctor. Most importantly, we have divine help from our Savior, who is always with us.

The best way to manage stress in such situations is to prioritize our time with the Lord. Organize your life in a way that puts Him first. As it says in Doctrine and Covenants 88:119: Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God. By putting God at the center of your schedule, you will find that your time naturally becomes more structured, leaving space for both relaxation and focus on the important things. If, after doing this, you still struggle with time management, seek the Lords guidance through prayer, asking for His divine help.

If you continue to feel weary or overwhelmed by your responsibilities, remember that the Lord is always willing to carry your burdens. Christ said: Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28). In moments of stress, turning to the Savior will bring peace and perspective. His peace will give you the strength to keep going, while His perspective will help you realize that trials are temporary.

In conclusion, always remember that you can rely on others for support, and even when you feel alone, the Savior is always there, ready to help. I encourage you to make Christ the center of your life. Trust in Him, and trust that He will guide you. With His help, nothing is impossible. My hope is that as you navigate lifes challenges, you will seek His peace and find rest in our Savior.

In our constantly evolving landscape of technology, finding the right balance between security and ease of use can be a challenging task, especially from the perspective of a project manager. While security measures are crucial for protecting data and systems, overly stringent or bottlenecked controls can hinder productivity and cause projects to fall behind schedule. Conversely, prioritizing ease of use without adequate security measures can create vulnerabilities and bring the entire project to a halt. So, how can we help navigate this delicate relationship?

Understand Stakeholder Needs

The first step is to understand the needs of both stakeholders and end-users. Security teams are focused on safeguarding against threats, while end-users are concerned with functionality and convenience. Along with the development teams we work beside, we can help bridge the gap between these two groups.

Where appropriate, help to define the projects priorities clearly. Are there regulatory requirements or BYU security standards that come into play? Is user convenience a significant factor for the projects success? These and similar questions will enable concerns to bubble to the surface early.

Implementing Security Without Compromising Usability

Here are some strategies to ensure that security and ease of use are both addressed effectively:

1. Assess the risk of the system and its components. Not all features or data require the same level of security controls. Conducting a thorough risk assessment gives insight into which aspects of the system need stringent protection and which can afford some flexibility. This approach helps apply the right level of security where its most needed without overburdening users.

2. Iterative testing and feedback. Test and gather feedback on how security features impact the user experience. Refine these features based on real-world usage. This process helps identify potential friction points.

3. Ensure all security compliance is documented. Anywhere a system or project falls under the jurisdiction of a security policy, be sure to document how the system meets those standards. This prevents any last-minute hangups right before go-live.

These are just a few suggestions. Each project is unique and will require custom approaches. But with these fundamental concepts as guiding principles, we can be an asset to our teams. Striking the right balance between security and ease of use requires effort, but it vastly improves the final product in the long run. Achieving this balance not only protects valuable assets but also ensures a positive user experience, leading to satisfaction among our customers.

Life is full of unexpected turns and lessons, often delivered in the most unanticipated ways. Eight years ago, I was returning from an exchange student experience in Colorado to Brazil. During the very last weekend there, while playing soccer, I tore my meniscus. Since I was flying back on Tuesday, I couldn't address the injury until I was home in Brazil. The doctors assured me that surgery would fix my knee, allowing me to walk and participate in sports again. However, they warned me to be cautious with intense physical activities since my knee wouldnt be as strong as before.

Despite the doctors warnings, I carried on with my life, serving my mission in Rio de Janeiro, where I walked on steep hills of the favelas and walked for long times without any issue. Life seemed normal until the inevitable happenedmy negligence caught up with me. I tore my meniscus again, needing another surgery.

This experience mirrored a professional situation I faced later on. When I first started working for CCI Mechanical, I was diligent and efficient, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. My manager was pleased with my performance. However, as I became comfortable with my duties, complacency set in. I began to slack, believing that I had mastered my responsibilities and didn't need to exert as much effort.

My declining performance didnt go unnoticed. My boss and I had a serious conversation about my productivity, reminding me of the standards I needed to maintain. This wake-up call was reminiscent of the doctor's warning about my knee. Just as I had to heed medical advice to avoid further injury, I needed to listen to my boss to avoid professional repercussions.

These experiences taught me the importance of learning from past mistakes and taking warnings seriously. Today, I've decided to retire from playing soccer, both competitively and recreationally, to prevent another knee injury. In my professional life, Ive committed to maintaining a high standard of work, recognizing that complacency can have serious consequences.

In both personal and professional realms, its normal to feel a sense of comfort and let our guard down. However, its crucial to remember that the consequences of ignoring warnings can be far more damaging than we might anticipate. By learning from past actions and respecting the advice of those more knowledgeable, we can avoid unnecessary setbacks and continue to grow and improve.

Hygiene is the seldom talked about, but always cared about part of public interactions.

When you smell bad, people dont wanna be around you. Yeah, b.o. can be a big part of this, though more often bad breath is the worst offender. Make sure you shower and brush your teeth, use deodorant, and mouthwash too. If you think you can get away without doing one of those things, ask one of your closer work acquaintances to smell you and get a second opinion. This portion of the blog is not targeted at anyone in specific, but also it is, and you know who you are.

One of my favorite things in the world is when someone tells me to smile more, it makes me feel respected, valued, and like I have a nice smile that those around me want to see. That was a joke, definitely dont tell people to smile more. But also, putting on a face of kindness in the workplace, whether or not youre feeling great about the day can help to maintain the moods of those you work with. Alongside this, when those around you feel that you care about them and the work they do, they will do better work, thats just science. Ask people how theyre doing, show that you care about their personal lives (without encroaching on whats too personal), and always keep a cool head when dealing with those you dont get along with.

Respect is kind of like kindness, in that they are similar. Respect stands on its own though, as the value that you take from the words and actions of others. To earn the respect of others, you have to be willing to show it first. When people give suggestions, feedback, or criticisms, take them at their full worth. When you show that you are willing to work with others to improve the productivity of everyone involved, those around you will see that you care about your team and the work you do.

Chloe Lamoreaux defines accountability as the ability to count, this definition is incorrect. Accountability is an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions. When you tell people that youll do something, you get it done, when you tell people youll be somewhere, you be there. Timing is just as important as the completion of whatever youre doing. If every time someone asks you to do something, it takes a week to get it done, eventually theyll start asking someone else. Maybe thats what you want, but also, its your job, so probably dont convince your clients to give your work to other people.

I hope that this advice will help people to like you more than they do now.

We live in a world that is constantly evolving.

Where new technologies emerge, industries transform, and the need for knowledge expands at an unprecedented pace. Keeping up with this world of growth can be difficult, which is where the concept of continuous learning can help.

What exactly does continuous learning entail? Put simply, its all about being curious. In my opinion, the perfect example of a continuous learner is Curious George, from the hit childrens show, Curious George. In the show, Curious George is a curious monkey who goes on various adventures around New York City with his companion, the Man in the Yellow Hat. These adventures always end with George learning a valuable lesson about life. Curious George is the characterization of a hunger for knowledge, the willingness to step outside comfort zones, to embrace challenges, and to actively seek out opportunities for growth.

So how can we be curious learners, like George?

Adaptability: In today's rapidly changing world, adaptability is crucial. Continuous learners are better equipped to navigate transitions, whether it's adapting to new technologies, shifting career paths, or facing unexpected challenges. By embracing a mindset of continuous learning, we cultivate the flexibility and resilience needed to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Professional Development: In the professional realm, continuous learning is a cornerstone of success. By taking advantage of our professional development hour we can learn new skills, expand our knowledge base, and enhance our value in the workplace.

Personal Growth: Beyond professional development, continuous learning can improve our lives on a personal level. It can broaden our perspectives, foster creativity, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the world around us. Whether we're exploring new hobbies, delving into different cultures, or pursuing lifelong passions, continuous learning enhances our sense of fulfillment and personal satisfaction.

Lifelong Fulfillment: Ultimately, continuous learning is about more than just acquiring knowledge; it's about embracing a lifestyle of growth and self-improvement. It empowers us to pursue our aspirations, to challenge ourselves, and to unlock our full potential. By embracing continuous learning, we embark on a journey of lifelong fulfillment, fueled by curiosity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

In conclusion, continuous learning is a commitment to growth, both personally and professionally. By channeling our inner Curious George, we can embark on our own journey of lifelong learning, unlocking new opportunities and possibilities along the way. Through embracing curiosity and cultivating flexibility, we will thrive in the work we do.

From an early age, many of us are instilled with the idea that perfection is the ultimate goal.

Whether it's getting straight A's, excelling in extracurriculars, or meeting lofty parental expectations. While this is admirable in theory, relentlessly pursuing perfection can eventually become a stumbling block to growth and achievement.

Some of this I know from personal experience. As a child, academic success came naturally to me, and excellence was deeply valued by my family. Somewhere along the way, this translated into an unhealthy focus on perfection that strained my relationship with work and activities that I used to enjoy.

The desire to avoid anything less than perfect became paralyzing at times. I vividly remember the feelings of intimidation before workshop/review days in my freshman writing class, because at that point in my life any criticism meant my work was hopelessly flawed. It was a powerful lesson to realize that not only is perfection an unrealistic and elusive goal, but it is actually counterproductive. So many times, allowing myself an imperfect first draft had been the thing that got me over the bottleneck of procrastination, and some of the most helpful learning opportunities were on works that showed potential but needed improvement.

This point of view applies well beyond academics. Whether it's taking on a new role or project at work, trying an unfamiliar professional task, or tackling an ambitious personal project - if the bar is set at unattainable perfection, you may end up freezing up from fear of inadequacy as the weight of those impossible expectations becomes crippling.

What we can do instead, is shift our focus to continuous improvement. You start from where you are, with the knowledge you currently possess. You give your full effort, ask questions to fill the gaps, apply that learning, and embrace opportunities to iterate and improve over time. This is the truly sustainable path.

One of the first times this dawned on me was when I read an article in the September 2019 Liahona - Im not Perfect Yet by Jolle Spijkerman. This wasnt the first time I had heard the call to be perfect, in 3 Nephi 12:48, discussed in a way that meant gradual progress until we are complete. But it was the first time I really understood it and saw exactly how it would fit in my life. Jolle discussed how because of the atonement we can eventually overcome our weaknesses, challenges, and imperfections if we strive to focus on Jesus Christ and keep him in our hearts.

Heavenly Father wouldnt have allowed the events of the atonement to play out as they did if he expected us to be perfect here, instead the whole point of our mortal existence is continuous improvement. We have temptations and mistakes so we can learn, grow, and change. By the grace of the atonement we can strive to be good, then, better and eventually our best possible selves. But it would not do to miss the point of the greatest learning experience, our mortal existence, by being hung up on perfection.

We are all works in progress. Perfectionism often masquerades as a worthy objective but is really just an inhibitor of growth. Embrace your imperfections, remain open to feedback, and prioritize giving your personal best at every stage.

Ego Depletion. It is a term we often do not use, or might not even know, but this is the key to

successfully completing challenging tasks on your every day, and taking the best options in the most important decisions we have. To explain Ego Depletion and how avoiding it can help you that much, we need to go for an analogy:

Imagine you have a bucket full of water, this bucket gets filled up every day when you

wake up (it might take you a second to realize it is full, but it does start that way). Every time

throughout the day, whenever you need to complete a task or decide something, no matter how small or big it is, you take a certain amount of water out the bucket. This amount of water depends on the size of the task or decision. At the end of the day, you usually have less or no water at all.

Now imagine that throughout the day you have been pulling water out of your bucket, cup by cup, and suddenly you are in the need of using more water than normal (you have an

important decision to make, or maybe you must do something you find hard to accomplish or just hate). When you look inside your bucket, you will see you do not have enough water for that task. This will end up with you not being able to use the optimal amount of water that is needed.

There are easy fixes for you to be able to use the optimal amount of water. First, with hard,

challenging, or even just disliked tasks, the best is to do them first thing in the morning. I am fine with exercise, but I do not love it. My solution, I go every morning, right before work and classes. Later in the day I do not need to complain about my need to exercise or I wont be too tired to go to the gym. Second, for important decisions. There are two things you can do, you can either choose to reevaluate and rethink your decision (or just the problem) the next day once you feel refreshed. If waiting is not an option, you could also take a break, relax your mind, and try your best to refill your bucket, even by a little. Realize that you might not be able to make the most optimal decision and move forward with it.

Ego Depletion is when we do not have enough decision making resources in us, and therefore we are not able to decide as we would otherwise. It affects everyone, you might even have a week where you feel ego depleted. If you ever feel like you could do better on a specific task or that you could think better about your options, try your best to fill up your bucket again, and try once you are out of the Ego Depletion state.

Sleeping is a superpower.

Real-world superhumans like Kobe Bryant and Elon Musk are known for being highly effective, creative, and high achievers. In addition, they are known for a very particular characteristic: they sleep much less than average people. Although their lack of sleep is NOT one of the attributes related to their remarkable success, we may see it as the key element that contributed to their achievements (Less sleep equals more hours of work, right? It seems to make sense). This misunderstanding has led many of us to consider sacrificing our sleep to achieve our goals and dreams, especially those related to school performance and professional careers. But is it actually true that if we sleep less, we accomplish more?

Sleeping plays a vital role in developing human capabilities and has been one of the subjects of research and study for many decades. There have been many interesting findings regarding the importance of sleep. However, none of them has even gotten close to suggesting that lowering the amount of sleep an individual has will result in any form of success. Furthermore, Dr. Lawrence Epstein, MD, medical director of Sleep Health Centers in Brighton, Mass., and instructor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, said, "Recent studies have shown that adequate sleep is essential to feeling awake and alert, maintaining good health, and working at peak performance. After two weeks of sleeping six hours or less a night, students feel as bad and perform as poorly as someone who has gone without sleep for 48 hours." In other words, Dr. Epstein said that there is no correlation between thriving and lacking sleep. Therefore, the fact that Kobe Bryant's sleep habits worked for him does not mean that it's sustainable and it will work for everyone.

Now, let's go back in time to your childhood, even earlier, when you were just a baby. Imagine how nostalgic it would be to see the young version of your parents and to see yourself as a baby. Among the things you would notice, you would see your parents taking such good care of you. You would see them making everything possible for you to grow healthy, strong, and intelligent. You would see your parents treating your sleep schedule as something sacred, something that couldn't be skipped or interrupted. You would see them missing out on parties, sports events, friends' gatherings, movie nights, and other social events. Their reason for those sacrifices was simple and undoubtedly important: "the baby (you) needs to sleep at that time."

Let's pause and consider why your sleep schedule was so important to your parents. Why was it worth so many sacrifices?

Now let's come back to the present. Have you ever heard someone say about their New Year's resolution, "This year, I will prioritize my sleep. I will sleep better. I will plan to sleep"? You probably have never heard someone say that. In contrast, we hear people listing all sorts of other things: "getting an A in all the classes," "doing an internship at the dream company," "going to the gym every day," and the list goes on. Interestingly, most of the resolutions we hear from people are purely outcomes, things we wish to happen.

The message of this article is simple: if you commit to a strict and constant sleep scheduleif you plan to sleepyou'll see improvement in all areas of your life that are important to you. Therefore, let's focus for a moment on things that will make that happen.

First, make your sleep a priority on your list. As an international student and first generation college student in my family, I had to figure this out by myself. During my first four semesters at BYU, I constantly struggled with a lack of energy and fatigue throughout the day. Consequently, my academic performance was very poor, and my self-confidence went down. Every semester I started with new resolutions that I thought would help me thrive. Some of those resolutions were "Planning my week" or "studying every day for one hour for each class." I found out that those goals had such little impact on me because I still lacked energy and was tired throughout my day. I thought that it was because I was waking up too early and working too much; I even tried taking naps during the day; however, I found myself waking up more tired than before.

One day, thinking about people I admire (Im not talking about famous people, but normal

people like me and you), looking for patterns in their lives that could benefit mine, I found

something very interesting. I noticed that people who got the grades I wanted and had the balance I longed for had something in common. They were very responsible with the

number of hours they slept; they didnt let anything get in the way of sleeping. That day was indeed an "Aha" moment in my life. It is empowering to be aware of how important sleep is. Small changes in one's daily routine can have a huge impact. Having sleep as one of my life's priorities has been the driving force for change.

Second, plan to sleep. After I became aware of how important sleep is, I made it a clear priority in my life, and my weekly planning switched to planning everything around my hours of sleep. Knowing that my body needs at least 7 hours of sleep was very relevant in

determining how to organize my week. It was less hard to say no to certain things because

knowing that the outcomes I had written in my beginning-of-the-semester resolutions list

depended on it.

A study directed at students at Auburn Universitys Harrison School of Pharmacy suggests that there is an association between the hours of sleep you have and the score you get on a test. Individuals who sleep for 7 hours or more get better scores compared to those who sleep 6 hours or less. Therefore, this finding proves that cognitive performance is very fragile and can be negatively affected by inadequate sleep duration. Furthermore, Salisa

Westrick, PhD, MS, James E. Foy Hall, Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University, explained more, "Inadequate sleep decreases general alertness and impairs

attention, resulting in slowed cognitive processing. Lack of adequate sleep also interferes with the function of brain structures critical to cognitive processes." Along with the subject of adequate sleep duration, it is also relevant to mention that there won't be long-lasting results without consistency in the time you go to bed. Yu Chih Chiang and Susan W.

Arendt, two Online Learning Faculty Fellows and professors of hospitality management at

Iowa State University, conducted a study that suggests not being consistent with a sleep

routine is a common problem associated with poor sleep quality. They said, "The results of

our study suggest a high prevalence of both an irregular bedtime schedule and insufficient

sleep among university students in Taiwan. Students with an irregular bedtime schedule

may experience poor sleep quality."

As one becomes more aware of the importance of getting a good night's sleep, making sleeping a priority will come naturally. As you plan to sleep, make sure to focus on two important aspects: sleep duration and a regular bedtime schedule. However, be aware

that neither of these two key aspects will significantly impact your life without consistency. Therefore, as students commit themselves to the strict routine of making time to sleep one of their top priorities, their grades at school and the quality of other aspects of their lives will improve significantly.

Sources:

1. Straten, Tim van. 2021. Kobe Bryant Wound up Regretting the Astonishing Lack of Sleep He Got throughout His Career: why Am I Playing like Crap? - Sportscasting. Sportscasting | Pure Sports. November 14, 2021. https://www.sportscasting.com/kobebryant-wound-up-regretting-astonishing-lack-sleep-throughout-career-why-playing-likecrap/

2. Importance of Sleep & Effects of Sleep Deprivation on College Students. 2007. American Academy of Sleep Medicine Association for Sleep Clinicians and Researchers. November 30, 2007. https://aasm.org/college-students-getting-enough-sleep-is-vital-toacademic-success/

3. Zeek, Megan L., Matthew J. Savoie, Matthew Song, Leanna M. Kennemur, Jingjing Qian,

Paul W. Jungnickel, and Salisa C. Westrick. 2015. Sleep Duration and Academic Performance among Student Pharmacists. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education 79 (5): 63. https://doi.org/10.5688/ajpe79563

4. Zeek, Megan L., Matthew J. Savoie, Matthew Song, Leanna M. Kennemur, Jingjing Qian, Paul W. Jungnickel, and Salisa C. Westrick. 2015. Sleep Duration and Academic Performance among Student Pharmacists. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education 79 (5): 63. https://doi.org/10.5688/ajpe79563

5. Hannah G.Lund B.A. Brian D.Reider B.A. Annie B. Whiting R.N. J. Roxanne Prichard.

2010. Sleep Patterns and Predictors of Disturbed Sleep in a Large Population of College Students. Sciencedirect.Com. February 2010 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1054139X09002389

One day at work, I found myself with nothing to do. As a college student, this feeling was all too enticing. Getting a head start on my homework for the day sounded like a great use of this newfound free time. I pulled out my laptop to start on my endless stream of assignments, but just before I could start, a thought entered my head. I was at work, so I should work. I chose to ask a different supervisor that wasnt my own if there was anything that I could help them with. I soon found myself with a task that would take up the rest of my workday.

It was a small thing, but it taught me a good lesson. I didnt consider the impact this made on me until I got home and started to do my homework. I found that I felt more productive, and I was able to get everything done! By choosing to focus on work when I was at work, the stress from my school and personal life was kept at bay and unable to interfere with my productivity. Then when I got home, the stress from work didnt interfere with the other things I had to do.

This principle is called

. It refers to the mental strategy by which individuals separate the many facets of their lives, emotions, thoughts, and experiences into distinct categories or

. Here are a few benefits that follow the implementation of this mental strategy.

1. Maintain focus: individuals are enabled to focus on one thing at a time without being distracted by unrelated thoughts and concerns.

2. Manage stress: compartmentalizing allows individuals to temporarily set aside other concerns in another area of their life. This prevents feeling overwhelmed and out of control.

3. Preserve relationships: compartmentalizing helps keep boundaries between different relationships by not allowing issues from one area of your life to spill into the lives of others. This contributes to healthier, more balanced relationships at home and at work.

4. Cope with trauma and adversity: this strategy can even be a helpful coping mechanism for dealing with difficult emotions and experiences. This practice enables an individual to mentally separate these experiences from everyday life and promotes a sense of normalcy.

Overall, this practice promotes balance in your life. It keeps all the tasks and responsibilities that compete for our attention and energy in their own proper place and time, allowing allthings [to be] done in wisdom and order (Mosiah 4:27). It allows an individual to dedicate their time and energy more fully to work

personal pursuits, reducing the risk of burnout and improving overall well-being by keeping the work-life balance in check. Mosiah 4:27 continues, it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strengthhe should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize So take control of your to-dos by compartmentalizing your life, and you will have the energy required to stay on top of your tasks.

Now here is a little warning: the line between compartmentalization and procrastination can often become blurred. Every aspect of our lives must work together. We must know when it is appropriate to compartmentalize and when its necessary to address underlying issues more directly. Like if something really distracts and inhibits you, it should be resolved as soon as possible. And always remember to never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Always make time for those who need you, and you will be blessed.

A world of knowledge, communication, and entertainment is just a tap away all of the time.

Phones are great! They allow us to read, watch, talk, and text from practically anywhere! Phones are so great in fact that we spend about 40% of our waking hours on an internet-connected screen. Thats 7 hours per day, 2555 hours per year, per person. Imagine if you could get some of that time back at the end of the year? Though you could argue that most of that time was probably used for work anyway, a survey from 2000+ adults found that less than half of the time we spend on screen is actually used to be productive. But with all of the things that studies and surveys say people wish they could do if they had more time in their day to do things, why do we use what precious little personal time we have on a screen? Well, according to studies, Technological devices offer a continuous stream of notifications, updates, and entertainment options that can be difficult for people to ignore. Furthermore, these stimuli can activate the dopamine reward system in the brain, resulting in a cycle of compulsive use and addiction. Its no surprise that something that affects our brains this way causes us to lose track of time that we do. But what would you do if you had that much extra time in your day?

A poll in December 2022 made up of 2000 adults found that if given extra time, One in five would focus on projects or tasks they enjoy, while 28% would tackle more projects and bigger ones. While 34% would knock out some chores, 20% feel theyd need the time for some extra sleep. Some would even take on new responsibilities such as by going back to school (21%) or adopting a pet (19%). Though it can be difficult to find that much and to pull ourselves away from something that is proven to be addicting, it's essential to consider the value of reclaiming personal time and redirecting it towards meaningful and fulfilling activities. Taking a break from the constant barrage of notifications and screen time can lead to increased productivity, improved mental well-being, and the pursuit of personal passions.

While phones and internet-connected screens have undoubtedly transformed the way we live, work, and communicate, it's crucial to strike a balance. Being mindful of the time spent on screens and consciously choosing to allocate some of that time to activities that bring joy, fulfillment, and personal growth can significantly enhance the quality of our lives. As we navigate the digital age, let's not forget the importance of enjoying the offline world and making the most of the precious time we have.

https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/screen-addiction/#:~:text=Technological%20devices%20offer%20a%20continuous,of%20compulsive%20use%20and%20addiction.

https://www.crossrivertherapy.com/research/screen-time-statistics#:~:text=According%20to%20data%20from%20DataReportal,at%20a%20screen%20every%20day.&text=The%20average%20person%20spends%20up,hours%20looking%20at%20a%20screen.

https://explodingtopics.com/blog/screen-time-stats

https://nypost.com/2023/01/24/americans-reveal-what-they-would-do-with-more-free-time-poll/

Hey everyone! I found a cool way to make college life awesome I started waking up at 6 am and doing a little workout every day. Turns out, it's not just good for feeling healthy; it's like a secret weapon for doing better in my classes and feeling happier overall.

I used to waste most of my mornings, but now I see them as a special time to focus on my studies. It's quiet, and my brain works better without distractions. So, I get a head start on my assignments before the rest of the world even thinks about breakfast. For the first time in my life it feels like I have much more time for myself.

Now, let's chat about the gym and trust me, it's way more fun than it sounds! I kick off with a mini dance party to my favorite songs, throw in some weightlifting, and sometimes take a dip in the BYU pool. Oh, and guess what? There's this amazing sauna too, where I feel like I've been reborn after a good swim. The gym became my happy place, and here's the best part that burst of energy I get helps me tackle my classes. It's like my secret weapon for college survival!

But here's the cool part it's not just about getting fit. This new routine makes me more

organized, and I'm getting better grades. I feel more in control of my time, and it's like having

a super-clear mind for all my college challenges. And guess what? My mood is on fire! The gym is my stress-relief zone, where I leave all my worries behind. It's like a daily dose of happiness that makes the whole college thing feel way easier. Oh, and sleep? I used to stay up late, but now I hit the hay at a reasonable time. It's like my body thanks me with better sleep, and I wake up feeling refreshed.

So, if you're a college student looking for a fun way to feel healthier, do better in classes, and

just be happier, try setting that alarm for 6 am. Embrace the mornings, have a little dance

party at the gym, and watch how your college life gets a whole lot brighter!

In a time where it seems that everyone is tired, it almost seems nonsensical that there are not more people who are concerned about the time they spend sleeping and the quality of sleep they have on any given night.

Not getting enough sleep has almost been interpreted as a sign of ultimate productivity. They cant have been working that hard if they still look well-rested, right? Wrong. Sleep is a crucial component of our lives, especially when we are seeking to get more done in less time. This post will focus on what sleep can do for you and how you can improve your nights rest.

According to the Sleep Foundation, it is estimated that decreases in productivity cost each individual employer about $1,967 per employee per year. In an organization such as BYU, which has about 14,670 employees according to Zippia.com, that is a total of $28,855,890 lost annually due to a lack of employees being well-rested. Additionally, chronic sleep deprivation can have serious health implications and increase the risk of conditions such as anxiety, depression, obesity, and heart disease. People who sleep more are less prone to making errors due to quicker reaction times and an overall higher alertness.

When someone comes into work and did not sleep well the night before, it shows. Part of becoming a dependable and capable employee is consistently being able to perform well. Without enough sleep, we can only hope to perform at a suboptimal level, leading others to believe that we are inconsistent rather than consistent performers.

So how can you go about improving your sleep? For starters, you can limit the time spent looking at a screen before bed. Studies show that the blue light emitted from screens reduces melatonin, which decreases the feelings of sleepiness, leading to a harder time falling asleep. Another suggestion is to not even have electronics in the bedroom. Keep the TV and cell phone out of the room and buy an inexpensive old-fashioned alarm clock. Adults should seek to get at least 7 hours of sleep at night. A big part of being able to fall asleep at a reasonable time is having a set sleep schedule. Decide when you are going to stop looking at screens and start getting ready for bed. Consistency is the key. Finally, create a hard line between work and home. In a world that prides itself on staying connected, it is important to find some boundaries that allow you to take back the time you need to relax. Decide not to answer calls and emails past a certain time and let those who work around you know that you are working hard on creating a better balance.

All in all, it is the small, daily things we do that can have the biggest impacts on our work and personal life. If sleep has been something that has been neglected, then it is time to shift your focus and set yourself up for success.

Struggling to find the motivation to come to work? Feeling like nobody cares if you show up or not? I know that I have felt that way before, and it makes all the difference to find satisfaction in your job. This blog post will cover a few things you can put to practice to find more value from your job, no matter what it is!

What are some of the worst jobs you can think of? Garbage man? Fast food worker? Maybe you think working under PMO is the worst thing ever (its definitely not). Read this quote

and take a guess at what occupation they have:

I love patients, I love sick people. I have so much to offer sick people. Because when I

dont feel good or when I have had to have surgeries, the one thing that has gotten me through has beenjokes, just being pleasant, being upbeat, and having a great attitude. And thats what I enjoy the most about being here. Its so upbeat here. In fact, I consider it the house of hope. And thats what I tell all the patients and all the visitors: this is the house of hope.

This is a quote from an interview with Candice Billups, a janitor at a hospital. She finds immense joy and satisfaction from her job, a job that others are quick to look down upon. Here is a link to the full interview:

Candice has utilized Job Crafting - something employees do to redesign their own jobs in ways that foster engagement at work, job satisfaction, resilience, and thriving. Studies show that after just 6 weeks, employees who practiced job crafting reported higher satisfaction, job commitment, and attachment to their job when compared to a control group. Similarly, managers noted an increase in effectiveness when compared to the control group. There are 3 main methods used for job crafting: Task crafting, Relationship crafting, and Cognitive crafting.

Task crafting is changing the number, type, or nature of the tasks you are asked to complete. Candice has done this by tackling tasks that allow her to interact with the patients more easily. This includes cleaning up spills in rooms, stocking toilet paper, and changing sheets. She has added additional value to this by building relationships with those she is serving. That is relationship crafting - changing the nature of relationships, interactions, etc. She doesnt look at interactions with patients as something not in her job description. She sees each patient and recognizes an opportunity to make their stay more enjoyable, to build a relationship, and to leave just a little bit happier. She mentions several times how much she enjoys joking with the patients and lightening the mood. Candice has also utilized Cognitive crafting, changing how one perceives tasks and their meaning, by looking at each task she is asked to do as an opportunity to serve rather than as a checklist item.

Each of us has the opportunity to use this technique in different areas of our lives. Dont get caught in the Once I graduate Ill be happy. Once I get a full time job Ill be happy loop. You can be happy now! If you are having a difficult time finding job satisfaction, dont hesitate to reach out to your team lead or Gordon. They would love to talk with you more about your job and your interests to help you find the right spot where you can add value and feel motivated.

Go PMO!

In the fast-paced world of technology, being a project assistant and agile coach in an Office of

Technology demands a unique set of skills and strategies to stay ahead of the game. Productivity is not just a buzzword; it's a necessity. Let's dive into some simple yet effective practices that can make a significant difference in your role, all while getting inspiration from a book that I have been reading, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People."

1. Begin with the End in Mind

Start your day by clarifying your goals. What needs to be accomplished today? Having a clear vision of your objectives allows you to prioritize tasks effectively. Stephen Covey, in his book, emphasizes the importance of having a clear destination before starting your journey.

2. Put First Things First

Prioritization is key. As a project assistant, identify the most critical tasks and tackle them first. Don't get caught up in the whirlwind of less important activities. This habit, as per Covey, ensures that you're focusing on what truly matters, increasing your productivity in the process.

3. Think Win-Win

Collaboration is the cornerstone of success in the Office of Technology. Foster a culture of

cooperation where everyone benefits. As an agile coach, promoting a "win-win" mindset among team members ensures a harmonious working environment and boosts overall productivity.

4. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Communication is paramount. Take the time to understand the needs and perspectives of your team members. Effective communication not only prevents misunderstandings but also creates a conducive atmosphere for innovation. Covey's habit reminds us that listening is just as important as speaking.

5. Synergize

In the dynamic world of technology, collaboration is essential. Encourage the team to combine their strengths and work together seamlessly. Synergy, as Covey explains, is the result of valuing differences and leveraging diversity to achieve common goals.

6. Sharpen the Saw

Continuous improvement is a mantra for any project assistant and agile coach. Take the time to invest in your skills and well-being. Covey's final habit encourages a balanced approach to

self-renewal physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually

Productivity in the Office of Technology is not just about getting things done; it's about doing the right things efficiently. Drawing inspiration from "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,"

these simple yet powerful habits can significantly enhance your effectiveness as a project assistant and agile coach. Remember, success is not a destination but a journey, and by incorporating these habits, you're on the path to becoming highly productive in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

In a world where work and personal lives are seamlessly interlaced, nurturing an environment that fosters empathy and support empowers individuals to balance their stressors effectively.

Life often throws curveballs at us in quick succession, requiring resilience to navigate obstacles. Recognizing the significance of our surroundings and the influence of those around us can facilitate the creation of a dynamic that accommodates work-life balance. It is pivotal that we take the time to understand our colleagues and know who they are and the background they come from.

Such understanding goes beyond the superficial. It involves actively listening to their

concerns, recognizing their unique challenges, and appreciating the diverse perspectives they

bring to the table. This level of empathy can transform a workplace from a mere space of

professional engagement into a community where individuals feel valued and understood. In

more cohesive and productive work environment. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to engage fully with their work, collaborate effectively, and bring their best selves to the office every day. Therefore, cultivating a culture of support and understanding is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic one, leading to a resilient and adaptable workforce capable of weathering both personal and professional storms.

What is empathic leadership? Why is it important? Empathic leadership is best described as the ability to understand what others need while being aware of their thoughts and feelings. (Pimentel, 2022) Empathic leadership invites an open and supportive work ethic, where workers feel more valued and motivated toward a common goal, thus increasing productivity. The reason empathic leadership is important is not just because it increases productivity, but it also gives people the push to go the extra mile when it comes to their work. Empathic leadership has been shown to improve cultural awareness, boost innovative thinking, and create more value for customers. According to an article written by the Center for Creative Leadership, they found that leaders who were more empathetic to their employees were viewed to have better performance by their bosses. Additionally, those who have higher ratings of empathy according to their employees, tend to create more value within their work, as people become more motivated to produce the best quality work they can.

There are a variety of ways to be empathetic and to extend empathy to your colleagues and employees. An article written by Harriet Jamieson, Why Empathy in the Work Place is Important outlines various forms of empathy as viewed by employees. For example, Business Solver's "2023 State of Workplace Empathy" study found that 96% of people surveyed said flexible working hours are the most empathetic benefit an employer can offer, followed by workplace location at 93%.(Jamieson, 2024) However, there are common traits among empathic leaders we should all strive to have:

1. Self-Awareness: Cultivating self-awareness as an empathic leader allows you to have more of an understanding of yourself and your struggles. By having more self-awareness, you have a deeper understanding of your strengths, weaknesses, and needs, and by default, you begin looking at those characteristics in other people, from a human standpoint rather than an employer standpoint. Those who practice empathy in the workplace are often shown to have higher levels of self-awareness.

2. Sincerity: This trait shows itself in a variety of ways, the first being inquisition. Asking your employees how they are doing, offering your help, and giving them emotional support during their difficult circumstances can build job security, trust, and motivation within that employee. Being sincere and putting people over process can result in better work and more productivity than otherwise.

3. Direct Communication: Being direct in what your needs are when it comes to work can save time and stress for your employees. If one of your employees is going through a difficult situation, but you still need them to meet a deadline, making sure that you are directly communicating your needs to them while also being empathic to their situation will result in an employee wanting to meet the deadline, and perhaps going that extra mile in their work. Listening and acknowledging when mistakes have been made, as well as communicating them directly gives room for improvement

In conclusion, fostering empathy and support in the workplace is crucial for creating a dynamic that accommodates work-life balance and enhances overall well-being. By actively listening, recognizing unique challenges, and appreciating diverse perspectives, leaders can transform the workplace into a community where individuals feel valued and understood. This not only benefits employees emotionally but also contributes to a more cohesive and productive work environment. Empathic leadership, characterized by the ability to understand others' needs and feelings, is essential for driving motivation, productivity, and cultural awareness. By cultivating self-awareness, sincerity, and direct communication, leaders can create an empathetic workplace that encourages employees to go the extra mile and deliver high-quality work.

Sources:

https://www.teambonding.com/empathy-in-the-workplace/

https://www.techtarget.com/WhatIs/feature/Why-empathy-in-the-workplace-is-important

https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/empathy-in-the-workplace-a-tool-for-effective-leadership/