Making the transition from peer to manager can be challenging.  Change of status and responsibility when you transition into a leadership role can affect both personal and work relationships.   I first encountered this type of challenge and opportunity as a young army officer.   One day I was playing golf with my buddy, and the next day he was reporting to me as my Operations Officer.

As I work with organizations and teams around the country, I see two sets of common symptoms that may indicate a new manager is struggling.

One of my best clients introduced me to a book last year by Brian Tracy called Eat That Frog. It has some great ideas to stop procrastinating and get more done in less time. And, now it's out in its second edition.

I was just reviewing his chapter on "Motivate Yourself Into Action"and thought I would share a passage.

"It turns out that optimists have four spcial behaviors, all learned through practice and repetition.

The Dream Manager is a quick read and very inspirational. Get some great ideas on how you can create remarkable results by helping your employees fulfill their dreams. Heck, if it's possible to reduce attrition at a Janitorial Services Company, in can happen in any company.

Check it out for some good ideas.

Have you ever stepped back and watched team members respond to a decision?

It’s really an interesting dynamic to watch.

I just watched a group of mid-level managers react to a decision that their management team made - three months ago. There clearly is not commitment amongst this group (once again, these are mid-level managers).

I am engaged! It's true. I proposed on January 29th and my gal said yes.

Although we've been sharing the good news with essentially anyone who will listen (including people I've never met on my most recent back country ski hut trip), I've been anxious to tell you.

I was waiting to announce the news to a bunch of friends at a gathering at my house this last friday night. Each year I create a slideshow of friends' pics capturing the amazing moments of the past year. Friday night's included a few extras - of our engagement.

Just a final reminder that if you are interested in attending Ascend 2010, today is the last day to register!

We have 7 expert speakers and panelists that will be joining us throughout the day, and you'll literally walk away with a map to keep you focused on where you want to go in 2010.

I honestly can't tell you how excited I am about this year's goal setting seminar Ascend 2010. I updated the website (www.youryeartoascend.com) with a full layout of our guest speakers and panelists and an agenda for the day. AND, right now we are offering a Buy 1, Get 1 at 1/2 Price option. But hurry. Prices go up Friday at midnight.

I wish you and your loved ones a happy New Year! I am especially thankful for how you have have touched my life. May 2010 bring you health and happiness.

To your success.

Sal

I was reading the Wall Street Journal this morning and they had an interesting article about keeping resolutions. According to the article, only 19% of people who make them actually stick to their vows for two years. The article went on and talked about other discouraging statistics about New Year's resolutions.

Just a quick reminder that if you think you are going to attend our Ascend 2010 seminar, you can save some bucks by registering before this Friday (Dec 18th) at mid-night. And, when you get two others to register with you, the fourth is f-r-e-e!
This full-day seminar will be both practical and inspirational. This year we have a line-up of speakers and panelists who are experts in career development, personal finances, and health and fitness.

Ascend 2010 will help you: