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As we step into a new year, many of us are setting goals, making resolutions, and striving for growth—both personally and professionally. The beginning of the year offers a natural "reset" button, a chance to reflect on what’s working and what needs improvement. For leaders and teams, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on fostering an environment where innovation, collaboration, and trust can flourish.One key ingredient to achieving this is psychological safety. <blockquote>Defined by Harvard professor Amy Edmondson, psychological safety is the shared belief that a team is safe for interpersonal risk-taking—a place where individuals can voice ideas, admit mistakes, and collaborate without fear of judgment.</blockquote>The importance of psychological safety is undeniable. In Google’s famous Project Aristotle, it was identified as the number one driver of team effectiveness. But how do you cultivate this essential trait within your team? Dr. Timothy R. Clark’s The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety provides a practical and insightful roadmap to follow.<h3>&nbsp; Stage 1: Inclusion Safety—Laying the Foundation</h3>The first step to psychological safety is ensuring that every team member feels they belong. Without a sense of inclusion, individuals are unlikely to engage or contribute fully, fearing rejection or exclusion.Fresh Start Tip: Just as New Year’s resolutions often involve building connections—reaching out to loved ones or networking professionally—teams can prioritize inclusion by fostering a culture of belonging.✔ Action Step: Start team meetings with personal check-ins or icebreakers that celebrate diverse perspectives. Ask questions like, “What’s something unique you bring to the team?”<h3>&nbsp; Stage 2: Learner Safety—Encouraging Growth</h3>Once inclusion is established, the focus shifts to creating an environment where individuals feel safe to ask questions, experiment, and seek feedback. Learning involves vulnerability, and team members need assurance that their efforts will be supported, not ridiculed.Fresh Start Tip: New Year’s resolutions often center on learning new skills—why not extend this mindset to your team? Commit to collective learning and improvement.✔ Action Step: Encourage curiosity by celebrating questions and experimentation. Consider hosting weekly “learning moments” where the team reflects on lessons from both successes and setbacks.<h3>&nbsp; Stage 3: Contributor Safety—Empowering Action</h3>Contributor safety allows team members to take ownership of tasks, share ideas, and make meaningful contributions without fear of being undermined. This stage is crucial for translating knowledge into action.Fresh Start Tip: Just as people set goals to take control of their personal growth, teams can create a culture that empowers individuals to take initiative and make an impact.✔ Action Step: Assign tasks that align with team members’ strengths, and recognize their expertise. During brainstorming sessions, explicitly validate contributions to encourage active participation.<h3>&nbsp; Stage 4: Challenger Safety—Driving Innovation</h3>The highest stage of psychological safety is challenger safety, where team members feel confident questioning the status quo, challenging assumptions, and advocating for change. This is where true innovation happens.Fresh Start Tip: The new year inspires change—apply this energy to your team by creating an environment where fresh ideas and bold thinking are celebrated.✔ Action Step: Introduce structured “devil’s advocate” sessions or open forums for constructive debate. Encourage team members to share alternative viewpoints or critique existing processes in a supportive way.&nbsp; The Case for Psychological SafetyPsychological safety isn’t just about making people feel comfortable—it’s about making them feel understood. Research shows that teams with high psychological safety are more collaborative, resilient, and productive.In addition to Edmondson’s work, studies from the Journal of Applied Behavioral Science highlight how psychological safety reduces fear of failure, leading to greater innovation and creativity. Dr. Clark’s framework underscores the importance of guiding teams through these stages, ensuring everyone can contribute meaningfully and fearlessly.&nbsp; New Year, New Opportunities for GrowthAs we embrace the fresh start of a new year, let’s make psychological safety a priority. By focusing on inclusion, fostering curiosity, empowering action, and driving innovation, leaders can create an environment where teams thrive.So, what’s your resolution for building a stronger, more connected team this year? Let’s work together to cultivate psychological safety and unlock the extraordinary potential within our teams.Sources:Edmondson, A. (1999). Psychological Safety and Learning Behavior in Work Teams Clark, T. R. (2020). The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety Google’s Project Aristotle Research from Journal of Applied Behavioral Science #PsychologicalSafety #Leadership #TeamPerformance #GrowthMindset #Innovation

A Fresh Start for Teams: Building Psychological Safety in the New Year

<h2>The Resolution Dilemma</h2>Every January, we set out with big dreams and bold goals, determined to make this year the year. Yet, for many of us, those resolutions slip away into the abyss of “next year” by the time February rolls around. Why does this happen, and more importantly, how can we ensure that this year is different?The answer lies in understanding behavioral science and integrating emotional intelligence (EI) into your approach. Let’s explore some proven strategies to help you set meaningful resolutions and stick to them long after the New Year’s confetti has settled.<h3>&nbsp; Step 1: Setting CLEAR &amp; SMART Goals</h3>The first step to achieving any resolution is setting goals that are both SMART and CLEAR.SMART Goals: These are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-based. For example, instead of saying, “I want to exercise more,” set a goal like, “I will go to the gym three times a week for 45 minutes.” CLEAR Goals: These incorporate Emotional Intelligence by encouraging a Collaborate, Listen, Empathize, Adapt, and Reward approach. Collaborate with others for accountability, empathize with your own challenges, adapt to setbacks, and reward yourself for progress. Combining these methods ensures that your goals are well-defined and emotionally engaging, increasing your commitment and focus.<h3>&nbsp; Step 2: Leverage the Fresh Start Effect</h3>Behavioral economist Katy Milkman introduced the concept of the “fresh start effect,” which highlights how temporal landmarks like New Year’s Day motivate individuals to pursue their goals with renewed vigor.Use this psychological phenomenon to your advantage. Start your resolutions during other meaningful milestones—birthdays, the start of a new job, or even the beginning of a new week. Each fresh start provides a psychological boost to keep you motivated and on track.<h3>&nbsp; Step 3: Implement Temptation Bundling</h3>Another of Katy Milkman’s insights is "temptation bundling," a strategy that involves pairing a less enjoyable task with something you love.For instance, if you want to exercise more but struggle with motivation, only allow yourself to listen to your favorite podcast or audiobook while at the gym. This makes the activity more enticing and creates a positive association with the habit you’re trying to build.<h3>&nbsp; Step 4: Enhance Self-Awareness and Self-Regulation</h3>Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in achieving long-term goals. Two key EI skills—self-awareness and self-regulation—can make or break your resolutions:Self-Awareness: Understand your triggers and emotional patterns. Why do you procrastinate? What’s holding you back? Recognizing these patterns is the first step to overcoming them. Self-Regulation: Develop the ability to manage your emotions and impulses. For example, when stress tempts you to abandon your goals, practice mindfulness or reframe your perspective to stay focused.&nbsp;<h3> &nbsp;Step 5: Build a Support Network</h3>Achieving resolutions is possible on your own, but it’s much easier—and more likely to succeed—when you have a strong support system. Share your goals with trusted friends, family, or colleagues who can provide encouragement and hold you accountable.Consider joining a group or community with similar goals. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals not only keeps you motivated but also reinforces your commitment.<h3>&nbsp; Conclusion: The Key to Resolutions That Stick</h3>Resolutions fail when they lack structure, emotional connection, and support. By combining behavioral science techniques like SMART goals, the fresh start effect, and temptation bundling with the emotional intelligence skills of self-awareness and self-regulation, you can create a sustainable path to success.Summary:Set SMART and CLEAR goals to define your vision. Use temporal landmarks to harness the fresh start effect. Pair habits with rewards using temptation bundling. Leverage emotional intelligence to manage emotions and stay focused. Surround yourself with a supportive network to maintain accountability. This year, let’s go beyond just dreaming big—let’s commit to achieving. What’s your top resolution for 2025? Let’s inspire each other to stick to our goals and make this year the one that counts.&nbsp; Sources:Katy Milkman, How to Change 6seconds.org: Emotional Intelligence in Goal Setting #NewYearsResolutions #EmotionalIntelligence #BehavioralEconomics #GoalSetting #GrowthMindset

How to Make Your New Year’s Resolutions Stick: The Power of Behavioral Science and Emotional Intelligence

Tis the Season... to Not Be Stressed!The holiday season is often seen as a time to get together and experience cheer and joy. But for many, it’s also a season filled with hidden challenges. According to the American Psychological Association, people frequently experience heightened stress related to finances, family pressures, and the overall hustle and bustle of the holidays. These emotions can make the holidays feel anything but merry.Fortunately, you don't have to be swept away by the seasonal stress. By using a few Emotional Intelligence (EI) strategies, you can manage your emotions, protect your mental well-being, and enjoy the holidays with greater peace of mind. Here are some practical ways to navigate holiday stress using some core principles of EI.1. Look Inward: Practice Self-Awareness A foundational principle of Emotional Intelligence is self-awareness — understanding your emotions and how they impact your behavior. During the holidays, it’s easy to get swept away by obligations and expectations.Pro Tip: "Name it to tame it." Take a moment to check in with yourself as soon as you wake up and before any planned activities. Say out loud how you’re feeling. Are you feeling overwhelmed, disappointed, or anxious? Acknowledging your mood helps you identify triggers and approach your day with greater clarity. This simple exercise allows you to be proactive, rather than reactive, in how you manage your emotions.2. Regulate Your Reactions When emotions are high, it’s easy to overreact — especially during tense family gatherings or crowded shopping trips. Self-regulation is about maintaining control over your emotional responses.Pro Tip: Incorporate breathing exercises into your daily routine. One effective method is box breathing: inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, and exhale for four seconds. This technique calms your nervous system and helps you stay composed in moments of stress. Pausing before you respond to difficult situations can prevent small conflicts from turning into major ones.3. Identify Your Core Values During the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in "what’s expected" rather than "what matters most." Taking time to reflect on your core values will help you prioritize where to focus your energy.Pro Tip: Ask yourself, "What’s most important to me this holiday season?" Is it quality time with loved ones, personal rest, or giving back to the community? Once you’ve identified your values, make intentional choices that align with them. For example, if spending time with family matters more than buying gifts, focus on experiences rather than material items.4. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them Boundaries protect your time, energy, and mental well-being. Without them, you’re at risk of burnout and resentment. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re being selfish — it’s actually an act of self-care.Pro Tip: Be assertive but kind when communicating your needs. If you’re feeling drained or overstimulated, it’s okay to excuse yourself for a mental health break. Here’s an example: “I’ve loved catching up, but I’m feeling a little overwhelmed and need to step away for a bit.” Setting healthy boundaries allows you to show up as your best self.5. Practice Empathy for Others The holiday season can be emotionally taxing for everyone. If you're feeling the struggle, chances are, others are too. Family and friends may be navigating financial stress, grief, or personal challenges that aren't always visible. Empathy allows us to understand and support others, even when their behavior is less than ideal.Pro Tip: During conversations, listen more than you speak. Resist the urge to "fix" others’ problems or jump to conclusions. Empathy is about holding space for others to feel seen and heard. When you’re patient with others, you’re also more likely to receive patience in return.6. Shift Your Mindset Toward Gratitude When stress is high, it’s easy to focus on what’s wrong — the long to-do lists, the endless crowds, or the holiday bills. But intentionally shifting your mindset toward gratitude can make all the difference.Pro Tip: End your day with a "3 Good Things" exercise. Write down three positive things that happened during the day. They don’t have to be big moments; small wins count, too. Gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, reduce anxiety, and foster a greater sense of happiness. Celebrate the wins — big and small — to cultivate a more positive holiday experience.Wrap-Up: Celebrate with Intention The holiday season’s stressors will come and go, but how you respond to them is up to you. By focusing on self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and gratitude, you’ll not only survive the holiday season but thrive in it. You may even inspire those around you to do the same!So, cheers to well-being, low stress, and great times! If you know someone facing a tough time this holiday season, share these tips with them — you never know who might need them most. Let’s make this season one of peace and presence, not pressure.

6 EI Tips To Get You Through The Holiday Stress

Mentorship is a valuable tool that can help you advance in your career. Having a mentor can provide you with guidance, support, and advice that can help you achieve your goals. this blog post, we will explore the benefits of mentorship in your career.

<h2>Learning from Experience</h2>
One of the primary benefits of having a mentor is that they can provide you with valuable insights based on their experience. A mentor can help you navigate the challenges that come with your career and provide you with guidance on how to overcome them. They can also share their successes and failures, which can help you avoid making the same mistakes.
<figure id="figure-xpaupuhfnulj7iz6cu"><img id="xpaupuhfnulj7iz6cu" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1682685794690-dea7c8847a50?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8bWVudG9yc2hpcCUyMGV4cGVyaWVuY2V8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjg3NDYxNDQ3fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship experience" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Networking Opportunities</h2>
Another benefit of having a mentor is that they can introduce you to people in your industry. This can help you expand your network, which can be beneficial when looking for job opportunities or seeking advice on how to advance in your career.
<figure id="figure-3dxzsdtxodlj7iz7uc"><img id="3dxzsdtxodlj7iz7uc" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1550177977-ad69e8f3cae0?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8bWVudG9yc2hpcCUyMG5ldHdvcmtpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjg3NDYxNDQ5fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship networking" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Personalized Advice</h2>
When you have a mentor, you have someone who is invested in your success. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your skills, strengths, and weaknesses. This can help you develop a plan for achieving your career goals.
<figure id="figure-nu47bstaldlj7iz91r"><img id="nu47bstaldlj7iz91r" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523240795612-9a054b0db644?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxtZW50b3JzaGlwJTIwYWR2aWNlfGVufDB8fHx8MTY4NzQ2MTQ1MXww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship advice" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Increased Confidence</h2>
Having a mentor can also help increase your confidence. When you have someone who believes in you and supports you, it can give you the confidence to take risks and pursue opportunities that you may have otherwise been hesitant to pursue.
<figure id="figure-d06768a7rxlj7iza9b"><img id="d06768a7rxlj7iza9b" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1578552369112-735b0cecbc6e?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxtZW50b3JzaGlwJTIwY29uZmlkZW5jZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2ODc0NjE0NTJ8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship confidence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Accountability</h2>
A mentor can also help hold you accountable for your goals. When you have someone who is checking in on your progress and providing you with feedback, it can help keep you motivated and on track.
<figure id="figure-9s5epybjnklj7izbcx"><img id="9s5epybjnklj7izbcx" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1503944918282-d3a7844a9641?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw3fHxtZW50b3JzaGlwJTIwYWNjb3VudGFiaWxpdHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjg3NDYxNDU0fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship accountability" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Access to Different Perspectives</h2>
When you have a mentor, you have access to someone who may have a different perspective than you. This can be valuable when trying to solve problems or come up with new ideas. Your mentor can provide you with a fresh perspective that you may not have considered before.
<figure id="figure-4tgyhbm2k6lj7izcw5"><img id="4tgyhbm2k6lj7izcw5" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1448376291983-098d7f9aa5c2?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNHx8bWVudG9yc2hpcCUyMHBlcnNwZWN0aXZlfGVufDB8fHx8MTY4NzQ2MTQ1Nnww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship perspective" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Long-Term Career Development</h2>
Mentorship can also help with your long-term career development. Your mentor can help you develop a plan for achieving your career goals and provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve them.
<figure id="figure-1jx8g7q92rlj7ize11"><img id="1jx8g7q92rlj7ize11" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1573483387033-3121eaa077d7?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMnx8bWVudG9yc2hpcCUyMGNhcmVlciUyMGRldmVsb3BtZW50fGVufDB8fHx8MTY4NzQ2MTQ1N3ww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship career development" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Personal Growth</h2>
Finally, mentorship can help with your personal growth. When you have a mentor, you have someone who can provide you with honest feedback and help you identify areas where you can improve. This can help you develop new skills and become a better version of yourself.
<figure id="figure-iexckzb7qlj7izfa3"><img id="iexckzb7qlj7izfa3" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1513258496099-48168024aec0?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxN3x8bWVudG9yc2hpcCUyMHBlcnNvbmFsJTIwZ3Jvd3RofGVufDB8fHx8MTY4NzQ2MTQ1OXww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="mentorship personal growth" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

In conclusion, mentorship can provide you with a wide range of benefits. Whether you're just starting out in your career or you're looking to take the next step, having a mentor can help you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself.

The benefits of mentorship in your career

Are you feeling stuck in your career? Do you have trouble making decisions about your professional future? A career coach can help you navigate the challenges of the job market and achieve your goals. Here are five reasons why you need a career coach:

<h2>1. Gain Clarity</h2>
Many people struggle with identifying their strengths and weaknesses. A career coach can help you gain clarity on your skills and abilities, as well as your interests and values. By understanding your unique profile, you can make informed decisions about your career path.
<figure id="figure-ntneki6shklj7ijacv"><img id="ntneki6shklj7ijacv" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1534196511436-921a4e99f297?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8Y2FyZWVyJTIwY29hY2h8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjg3NDYwNzA2fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="career coach" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>2. Set Goals</h2>
Without clear goals, it’s easy to feel lost or unmotivated in your career. A career coach can help you set realistic and achievable goals that align with your values and aspirations. By breaking down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps, you can make progress towards your ideal career.

<h2>3. Develop Skills</h2>
Whether you’re looking to improve your communication skills, leadership abilities, or technical expertise, a career coach can help you develop the skills you need to succeed. By providing feedback and guidance, a coach can help you identify areas for improvement and develop a plan to enhance your skills.
<figure id="figure-bh40oev2kdlj7ijbtj"><img id="bh40oev2kdlj7ijbtj" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523287562758-66c7fc58967f?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8Y2FyZWVyJTIwc2tpbGxzfGVufDB8fHx8MTY4NzQ2MDcwOHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="career skills" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>4. Expand Your Network</h2>
Networking is a crucial part of building a successful career, but it can be intimidating or overwhelming for some people. A career coach can help you identify networking opportunities and provide guidance on how to make meaningful connections in your industry. By expanding your network, you can open up new opportunities for career growth.

<h2>5. Overcome Obstacles</h2>
Everyone faces obstacles in their career, whether it’s a difficult boss, a lack of resources, or a setback in a project. A career coach can help you develop strategies to overcome these challenges and stay on track towards your goals. By providing support and accountability, a coach can help you stay motivated and resilient in the face of adversity.
<figure id="figure-vz0e9kpjuolj7ijdg1"><img id="vz0e9kpjuolj7ijdg1" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528953030358-b0c7de371f1f?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8Y2FyZWVyJTIwb2JzdGFjbGVzfGVufDB8fHx8MTY4NzQ2MDcxMHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="career obstacles" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your career, a career coach can provide the guidance and support you need to achieve your goals. By gaining clarity, setting goals, developing skills, expanding your network, and overcoming obstacles, you can build a fulfilling and successful career.

Blog - EQ Shorts

A Fresh Start for Teams: Building Psychological Safety in...

How to Make Your New Year’s Resolutions Stick: The Power ...

6 EI Tips To Get You Through The Holiday Stress

The benefits of mentorship in your career

5 Reasons Why You Need a Career Coach