Jann’s Jottings - May 2025

Newsletters

May 2

“The most practical pages for perusal on the web”

Jotting (defn): short details of significant events, behaviours and conversations about wellbeing, growth and education/career.

Wellbeing Jot: Green eyed or Clear eyed?

It happens to us all. Perhaps it’s a colleague who always seems to land the opportunities we covet, or someone who achieved the promotion we’ve unsuccessfully pursued multiple times. Maybe they have the financial security, the home, or the relationship we yearn for.

Jealousy can creep in. We know we shouldn’t feel it—then comes the guilt, especially when the object of our envy is a friend or family member. It might manifest as insincere congratulations, gossip, or avoidance.

Jealousy itself isn’t inherently wrong or bad. What matters are the choices we make in response to it. Actions born from jealousy—especially those that harm others for our own comfort—can cause damage.

At its core, jealousy is a signal. It highlights what is missing in our lives and reveals our deepest desires.

The next time you feel jealousy stirring, take a moment to pause and reflect. Journaling can be a powerful tool. Acknowledge your feelings and explore what they might be trying to tell you. Are you longing for recognition, freedom, self-expression, or abundance? These desires are valid; they stem from parts of yourself that may not be fully honoured.

By refocusing on what you truly desire and taking steps toward it, you can realign your life. In doing so, jealousy will fade—until it reappears as a gentle reminder that balance is once again needed.

Ponder this: What are you longing for? Coaching can help with that.

Growth Jot: Harnessing the Power of Accountability

Have you ever noticed how differently we behave when we’re accountable to someone? It’s a transformative force. For me and many, accountability propels actions forward, ensures deadlines are met, overcomes resistance, and creates a rewarding sense of achievement.

Accountability acts as a superpower, enabling us to take action even during moments of exhaustion or fear. It’s a tool that keeps us moving when we might otherwise falter.

To help your team thrive, consider introducing accountability partners alongside existing timeframes. This simple yet effective strategy can foster collaboration, build trust, and drive progress toward shared goals. Then celebrate your achievements.

Career Jot: Embracing an Abundance Mindset

You may be familiar with Carol Dweck’s research on Fixed and Growth mindsets, which have provided invaluable frameworks in education and beyond. In leadership, there’s a parallel perspective: the Finite versus Infinite mindset.

Approaching leadership with an Infinite mindset shifts the focus from short-term goals to long-term vision. It prioritizes building trust-based relationships, staying open and adaptable, and demonstrating courage in pursuing a vision that benefits everyone. Leaders who embrace this mindset cultivate collaboration, resilience, and sustainable growth.

Simon Sinek, in his book The Infinite Game, captures this perspective beautifully:

"An infinite mindset embraces abundance whereas a finite mindset operates with a scarcity mindset. Infinite-minded leaders understand that 'best' is not a permanent state. Instead, they strive to be better every day."

By adopting an abundance mindset, leaders inspire continuous improvement and growth—both within themselves and the teams they lead.

Ponder this: In which areas of your leadership will you practice a more abundant mindset?