Karl Edwards presents Working Matters

Tag: want

  • Loving Monday: Stairs and More Stairs

    loving_mondayI recently discovered a new staircase that took my breath away.

    Literally.

    Several hundred steps rising from the floor of the Los Angeles Basin to a 360 degree view of the entire city 511 feet in the air.

    Los_Angeles-viewWhether you experience the climb as inspiring or intimidating probably depends on how you view heavy breathing and aching muscles. Or how much you enjoy seeing the mountains that surround the city or identifying city landmarks from miles away.

    I may have just discovered a form of exercise quirky enough to bring me back for more.

    For my fellow Angelenos, I refer to the new Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook recently opened just off Jefferson Boulevard in Culver City. Pleasant walking trails once you reach the top complete with nature center. (Yes, there is also auto access.)

    I‘m writing, though, because it felt so good to start the day with an intense climb. Any exercise would probably have a similar effect, but given the fact that I don’t do “any” exercise, this is an exciting discovery for me.

    Vigorous enough to give my heart a work-out. Inspiring enough to get me to the top.

    There are so many “shoulds” out there about health, life, relationships, work, etc., etc. As accurate as the “should” might be, we must face the fact that not all of us are motivated by all “shoulds.”

    We need to find those good things that we can “want” as well. When it comes to exercise, my final list is strikingly short.

    I think I found me a new one! Back to the stairs and then back to work.

  • Loving Monday: Knowing What You Want

    What do you want out of this week?

    Anything at all. Do you know?

    Don’t filter. Take five and brainstorm freely.

    Do you want to finish a project? Do you want to broach an awkward subject? Do you want to hear someone say, “Thank you?” Do you want to design something new? Do you want to approach a problem differently? Do you want to have a clean desk? Do you want an uninterrupted afternoon? Do you want to go home early? Do you want to work more collaboratively? Do you want to avoid a boring meeting? Do you want to tell someone they’re special to you? Do you want to fire a client?

    Anything. Get it out. Write it down. Carry it with you discreetly or post it where everyone can see it.

    And then go for it. Aim for it. Make it happen. Do it. Try it. Take a step toward it.

    Let something… let just one thing you want inspire you this week.

    Post a comment letting us know what you want out of this week.

    On your side,

    – Karl