Why Your Strengths Aren't Serving You Anymore

Back in the past, during a pivotal moment in my career, I was fortunate enough to be acquainted with a book called StrengthsFinder.

It happened at a time when my self-assurance was waning, and the mere title of this book filled me with anticipation.

Driven by my excitement, I hurriedly made my way to Barnes and Noble and wasted no time in acquiring it.

I had set my sights on reading it while basking on a sunny beach in Mexico during our upcoming vacation.

The book, StrengthsFinder, left an indelible mark on me.

Discovering that my top strength was Achiever filled me with inspiration and joy.

Known for my enthusiasm, whenever I stumble upon something exciting, I can't help but share it with everyone I know, as if I were the sole inventor.

Embracing my true nature, I eagerly approached each manager, urging them to read the book.

Most people I spoke to about StrengthsFinder shared my enthusiasm.

However, when I mentioned it to my boss at the time, their response caught me off guard.

"You are reading a fucking self-help book?" they exclaimed dismissively.

At that moment, I realized that my values didn't align with the company I was working for. It served as a stark reminder that it was time for me to seek new opportunities elsewhere.

Embracing the role of an achiever brought me immense satisfaction.

Crafting lists to tackle daily tasks, both in my professional and personal life, filled me with joy and a sense of accomplishment.

With each item I crossed off those lists, I felt a surge of momentum propelling me forward.

For a decade, I held onto the belief that this strength defined a significant part of my identity and fueled my career progression.

Undoubtedly, it did contribute to my success.

However, my journey into coaching training unveiled a deeper truth – as an achiever, or more accurately, a hyper achiever, this very trait has also been a hindrance in various aspects of my life.

What's a Hyper-Achiever?

According to Positive Intelligence, a Hyper-Achiever is a Saboteur that is dependent on constant performance and achievement for self-respect and validation.

Someone who is highly focused on external success, leading to unsustainable workaholic tendencies and loss of touch with deeper emotional and relationship needs.

How has this made me successful?

1. It’s made me competitive

2. It’s kept me positive in front of my team when times are tough

3. It’s helped me be goal-oriented

How has this held me back?

1. It’s made my self-acceptance conditional based on achievement

2. It has stopped me from taking time to celebrate my accomplishments 

3. I’ve lost touch with my deeper feelings and ability to connect deeply with others

Becoming aware of my saboteur was a turning point in my life.

I learned to recognize its presence in my thoughts and understand how it influenced me.

This newfound self-awareness allowed me to make conscious choices and challenge the validity of those thoughts.

As a result, I discovered the importance of slowing down, deepening my relationships, and enjoying the process of each task.

By embracing curiosity and continuous improvement, I have experienced a profound transformation in my life.

How can you manage your Saboteurs?

1. Take this assessment to find out your top 3 Saboteurs.

2. Read the descriptions and let them sit with you for a few days.

3. Know that these are (only) thoughts and not facts. 

4. Understand that these thoughts were formed early in your childhood and that you no longer need them in your adult life. 

5. Start recognizing these thoughts when they occur and determine how you want to act on them.

6. Take 6 deep breaths when the thoughts arise to take you out of that moment and give you clarity on your next decision.

Discovering and managing our saboteurs is paramount to living a fulfilled life.

Click here to start learning how to manage your saboteurs.

Through self-awareness and introspection, we can challenge and reframe limiting thoughts, fostering personal growth and resilience.

By making conscious choices and cultivating positive mindsets, we unlock the joy of the journey, deepen relationships, and embrace continuous improvement.

It is through this transformative process that we create a life filled with authenticity, fulfillment, and boundless potential.

Share this blog with one person you know who would like to develop their strengths.

Take the tiny first step in developing your strengths now.

Christin

We Don't Need More Restaurants, We Need Better Ones

I went out to lunch this week at a charming local restaurant downtown and started chatting with our server about her experience working for this restaurant. 

We asked her questions like:

What does development look like in her position?

When is the last time she’s had a one on one?

When was the last time someone told her she was doing a great job?

What’s the biggest challenge her restaurant faces?

This server told us that she wished her management team knew how to control their emotions and not take their stress or frustration out on the staff.

She said the restaurant was constantly turning over staff because management was quick to fire.

She wished there was better communication amongst managers and hourly employees about things they could all work on as a team.

She said it had been 2 years since she’d had a one-on-one and that the new manager had never sat her down to get to know her or give her feedback.

That she’d love to know how to put more money in her pocket if someone could provide her some tips on how todo so.

This feedback came to us in the span of 60 seconds. You could tell this server was excited to share her opinion and lit up at the thought of someone investing in her.

Despite her feedback, this server has worked at this restaurant for 2 years and her service was attentive, kind, professional and she even offered us to-go cups on our way out. 

I got teary-eyed hearing this server share this feedback with us and then I got fired up.

I know, deep down, that restaurant owners want to be the best they can be and that employees want to do the best they can for their managers, owners, teammates and guests.

Restaurants need our help and support.

It’s time we start working together. 

I am going to keep having these conversations with employees from each restaurant I visit and keep offering resources to every restaurant owner who wants to be the best they can be.

I am also creating an employee engagement survey that I will offer to any restaurant for free who is interested in taking better care of their staff and improving their overall business. If you know anyone interested, please let me know.

Christin

Sober and Social: Fun Tips for Navigating Life's Events without Alcohol

When the decision to quit drinking took hold, I had a clear understanding of my reasons. I longed for improved health, a longer life, and freedom from the constant morning misery. However, what caught me off guard was the "how" and "when" of it all. I hadn't fully considered the need to devise a plan for embracing sobriety in every facet of my life. The realization hit me that I had to find a way to navigate the journey and get comfortable with a sober existence, encompassing all aspects of my daily experiences.

Navigating social situations where alcohol is often present can pose challenges. In this blog, we'll explore fun and practical tips to help you stay sober in various areas of your life, from dining out to work functions. We'll also discuss delightful drink substitutes to keep your hands occupied and your spirit uplifted.

Going Out to Dinner or Happy Hour

This was a significant change for both Tyler and I, as we used to thoroughly enjoy pairing wine with our dinners.

However, I must say, the non-alcoholic beverage industry has been experiencing a remarkable surge, and restaurants are gradually catching on.

The market now offers an abundance of tantalizing canned mocktails, non-alcoholic wines, and an impressive variety of delicious non-alcoholic beers.

Pro Tip: To ensure we have suitable options when dining out, we often peruse menus in advance or make a quick call to inquire about their non-alcoholic selections. Surprisingly, we've even approached some of our restaurant acquaintances and kindly asked if they could stock a six-pack of non-alcoholic beer or a bottle of non-alcoholic wine for us, and they've been more than happy to oblige.

Golf

Golfing is Tyler's ultimate passion!

When he hits the course three to four times a week, he loves having a refreshing drink alongside his water.

Luckily, many golf courses now offer non-alcoholic options.

It's a good idea to call ahead and inquire about their selection before your golf outing. 

Pro Tip: Non-alcoholic beers at golf courses can be a bit pricey, usually around $7 to $8 per can. If you're feeling a bit rebellious, you could consider buying one from the beverage cart and discreetly stashing a couple more in your golf bag-but you did not hear that from me!

Poolside or Beach Time

For those familiar with us, it's no secret that our vacations always revolve around water.

In the past, this meant indulging in buckets of beer on the beach and enjoying copious amounts of tequila.

However, times have changed.

Nowadays, our fridge is stocked with a selection of Heineken Zero, Lagunitas Hoppy Refreshers, and non-alcoholic bitters that I conveniently order from Amazon.

These delightful companions perfectly complement my La Croix. 

Pro Tip: Enhance the flavor and elevate your experience by adding a slice of fruit or a few herbs to your drinks. It adds a refreshing twist that will make your non-alcoholic beverages even more enjoyable. If you are at a resort or on vacation, an N/A beer and frozen virgin margarita make a delicious mock tail.

Celebrating with Friends

In the beginning, I felt a mix of nerves and apprehension when it came to revealing my decision to stop drinking.

I was unsure of how people would respond or how to address the inevitable question of "why."

To ease our concerns, Tyler and I took the time to practice and refine our message, which made a world of difference.

It's important to remember that true friends are there for a reason—they care about you and genuinely want to support you.

If someone is unwilling to stand by you on your sober journey, perhaps it's worth considering the nature of that friendship.

Surrounding yourself with a supportive circle can make a world of difference in your path to sobriety.

Pro Tip: Stop by the liquor store or grocery store before you go to a party and bring what you want to drink. If you are uncomfortable telling people you are not drinking, put your drink in a koozie. No one can tell the difference. Do whatever YOU need todo to feel comfortable and have fun with those you love.

Work Functions

Navigating work-related events can be challenging, but it's absolutely possible to have a great time while staying sober.

The key lies in approaching these occasions with a positive mindset and a determination to make meaningful connections.

Engage in conversations with your colleagues, taking the opportunity to forge deeper professional relationships and learn about their interests and aspirations.

Pro Tip: If you find that the presence of alcohol is overwhelming, consider speaking to the event organizers beforehand to ensure there are non-alcoholic beverage options available. By focusing on building connections, embracing your decision, and seeking out enjoyable alternatives, you can navigate work functions with ease and find fulfillment in both your professional and sober journey.

In conclusion, embarking on a sober lifestyle doesn't mean sacrificing fun or missing out on social experiences.

On the contrary, it opens up a whole world of delightful and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages waiting to be explored.

From mock tails and N/A wines to a variety of flavorful N/A beers, the market is brimming with options to suit any occasion.

Embrace your curiosity and embark on a journey of discovering new and exciting drink substitutes.

Whether you're going out to dinner, enjoying a round of golf, relaxing by the pool or beach, celebrating with friends, or attending work functions, these drink alternatives will keep your hands occupied while letting you savor each moment with clarity and joy.

So go forth, have fun, and relish in the exploration of the wonderful world of N/A beverages.

Cheers to not feeling like shit when you wake up ever again!

Christin

Elevating Restaurant Experiences: Unveiling the Difference in Customer Service and Hospitality

My dear friend and longtime co-worker, Andrew, used to lead every interview with the question, "What is the difference between customer service and hospitality?" 

You could always tell right away if someone knew the answer. 

If they did, it flowed out of them seamlessly, but if they didn't, they would either try to bullshit their way through it or provide a generic answer. 

Just like hospitality, the candidates who truly knew how to make an emotional impact on a guest could demonstrate that in their answer and usually got the job.

When it comes to the restaurant industry, customer service and hospitality are two key elements that can make or break a dining experience. 

While these terms are often used interchangeably, they encompass distinct aspects that contribute to creating a memorable visit for guests. 

In this blog, we will explore the difference between customer service and hospitality, and provide valuable tips on how to train your staff to deliver exceptional service.

Understanding Customer Service vs. Hospitality:

Customer Service:

Customer service refers to the interactions and assistance provided by staff members to meet the needs and expectations of guests. 
It primarily focuses on the efficiency, promptness, and accuracy of service delivery. 

Examples of customer service in a restaurant setting include taking orders, addressing concerns, and ensuring timely delivery of food and beverages. 

Customer service is essential for creating a satisfactory experience, but it alone may not leave a lasting impression on guests.

Hospitality:

Hospitality, on the other hand, goes beyond basic service to create a warm, welcoming, and memorable experience for guests. 

It involves creating a positive emotional connection and making guests feel valued and cared for throughout their visit. 

Hospitality is about anticipating and exceeding guest expectations, fostering a comfortable ambiance, and personalizing interactions to cater to individual needs. 

It includes aspects such as attentiveness, empathy, friendliness, and attention to detail. 

Hospitality can transform an ordinary dining experience into an extraordinary one, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Tips for Training Staff on Customer Service and Hospitality:

Develop a Service-Oriented Culture: Foster a culture that emphasizes the importance of customer service and hospitality. Communicate the values, mission, and vision of your restaurant to the staff, emphasizing the significance of creating exceptional experiences for guests.

Hiring and Selection: During the hiring process, prioritize candidates who possess strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a genuine passion for providing outstanding service. Look for individuals who naturally embody hospitality and can contribute to a positive team dynamic. Ask them if they know the difference between customer service and hospitality.

Comprehensive Training Programs: Implement comprehensive training programs that cover both technical skills and the nuances of customer service and hospitality. Provide ongoing training to ensure staff members are knowledgeable about the ingredients, preparation, vendors and have tasted every new menu item. The more knowledge your team has about their steps of service, company story and food and beverage menu offerings, opens a door to giving them more time and energy to spend connecting with your guests.

Role-Playing and Simulations: Conduct role-playing exercises and simulations to help staff practice various scenarios they might encounter while serving guests. This helps them develop the ability to think on their feet, handle challenging situations, and deliver personalized service.

Active Listening and Empathy: Train your staff to actively listen to guests and show genuine empathy towards their needs and concerns. Encourage them to go beyond the surface level and anticipate guests' preferences, creating a more personalized and memorable experience.

Attention to Detail: Emphasize the importance of paying attention to the smallest details. From the presentation of the table setting to remembering guests' preferences, these little touches can make a significant impact on the overall experience.

Building Rapport: Teach your staff the art of building rapport with guests. Encourage them to engage in friendly conversations, ask open-ended questions, and show a genuine interest in the guests' experience. Building a connection helps create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Empowerment and Problem-Solving: Empower your staff to resolve issues promptly and effectively. Provide them with the necessary tools, resources, and authority to address guest concerns. Encourage a proactive attitude towards problem-solving.

Feedback and Evaluation: Regularly provide feedback and evaluate staff performance. Recognize and reward exceptional service, and address areas that need improvement. Encourage a culture of continuous learning and development.

In the competitive landscape of the restaurant industry, providing exceptional customer service and hospitality is crucial for success. By understanding the difference between the two and training your staff.

P.S. Find your amazing employees who demonstrate the art of providing hospitality to every guest and make them your trainers.

Christin