The Edge Newsletter - Spring 2026
- Jun 2
- 3 min read
"I am happy because I'm grateful. I choose to be grateful. That gratitude allows me to be happy." — Will Arnett
It has been a long winter. And although spring has technically arrived, it’s been a little slow moving! I am looking forward to the longer and warmer days ahead. At the same time, I continue to look for the positive and focus on what’s in my control each and every day.
Over the years, I’ve shared variations of this message, and I think it’s worth repeating: while we can’t control the weather, we can choose how we respond to it.
When the clouds roll in (again), do I choose to put on my rain gear and still go out for a walk? Or do I choose something indoors instead? I may feel disappointed or frustrated, and that’s okay! Happiness is a choice… and so is gratitude (my 2026 word of the year!)
For me, gratitude isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about having the perspective to recognize that there is still good to be found, even during challenging seasons.
So while I wait patiently (and sometimes less patiently!) for the sun to shine, I’m reminding myself of all I have to look forward to in the days and weeks ahead.
Stay Tuned for a New Article on Values-Based Coaching
What are you looking forward to?
One of the things that has been filling my cup lately is deep work, especially values-based work. Whether through one-on-one coaching or in team sessions, there is something incredibly rewarding about watching participants uncover their values, and gain a deeper insight into who they are and how they are showing up.
Are you curious to learn more about values-based coaching? Stay tuned this summer for a new article! I’ll share my perspective, as well as my journey and experiences. And, of course, I’ll offer some practical tips and tools you can try on your own.
Consider This: Watch your "But"s!
If I could choose one word to remove from the dictionary, it would be the word BUT. In my experience, it makes people defensive, diminishes what was said before, and can quietly shut down meaningful conversations and connections.
Think about it …
‘You did a great job on that report BUT I noticed two mistakes.’
‘You look great BUT ….’
‘You handled that situation well, BUT next time…’
All those BUTs can really deflate a person, don’t you think?
So in light of this, I invite you to become more aware of your use of the word ‘BUT’. Practice replacing it with the word ‘and’ … and watch the impact on your experiences and conversations!
For example: ‘You did a great job on that report AND I noticed two mistakes. Can we chat about where you got those numbers?’
Are there any words that you notice have a big impact (good or bad) on your interactions? I'd love to hear what stands out for you. A colleague shared that “Just” and “Should” are high on her list. What’s on yours?
In Case You Missed It: The Power of Perspective
Perspective is about more than personal preference; in fact, navigating different perspectives is a vital component of effective leadership.
And while perspective can have a big impact on our lives and relationships, one of the best things about perspective – in my opinion – is that we can choose to change it.
Ask a Coach
Is there a question you've always wanted to ask? Now's your chance!
Please send me your questions, queries, and curiosities, and I'll get back to you with some thoughts or suggestions or a tool or strategy you could try out.
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