Parenting! I began growing my family just as I started stepping up in my career, taking on more responsibilities in people management and running a department. I couldn’t help but notice the parallels between advice in parenting books and management strategies. The ultimate goals are pretty much the same: mentor individuals to build their skills, take on more responsibility, and eventually need you a little less as they grow. Plus, the approaches are surprisingly similar – caring about people as individuals, establishing clear expectations, being direct, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and safe to admit mistakes and learn from them.

My curiosity! I still remember back in first grade when our class had a "bring your teddy to school" day, and every teddy got a superlative. My panda stuffy earned the title "Most Curious," and I had to ask my mom what it meant. It turns out that word has perfectly described me through all the decades of my life. To me, curiosity isn’t just about seeking out knowledge and understanding – it’s about stepping outside your own head and challenging your thoughts with a sprinkling of compassion. It's my best trait because it's been my key to self-acceptance and self-love. When I see it in others, I notice it leads to a kinder world filled with acceptance and non-judgment.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Cognitive Behavior Theory (CBT), and all things thought work! I've faced my fair share of limiting beliefs and "stinkin' thinkin'" that led to anxiety and sadness, keeping me from living my best life. Learning how to "feel your feels" and challenge thoughts that hold you back are truly essential skills. Plus, it's pretty fun to dig into how our brains work! I’m excited to see SEL becoming more integrated into K-12 education, and I’d love to see more of it in colleges, universities, and workplaces.

The Rainbow Connection by Kermit the Frog. No need for an explanation – if you don’t get it, go listen to it. Now!

I snapped this photo during a springtime visit to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, one of my family’s favorite day-trip destinations that we visit multiple times each year. The gardens are ever-changing, offering something new to enjoy each season alongside cherished old favorites. On this particular visit, the fountain was surrounded by a stunning display of black and white tulips. But as I approached, I discovered a single orange tulip right in the middle! While scrolling through my photos for website inspiration, this picture stood out instantly. I chose it without overthinking what it might say about me—simply because it brought me pure, instantaneous joy. So, the real question is, why does this lone orange tulip bring me such joy? Three reasons come to mind. First, it sparks my curiosity. How did it get there? Was it an accident with all the factors influencing tulip colors, or was there a rogue gardener wanting to spice things up? Second, with curiosity comes the choice to investigate or let the mystery be and enjoy it. Either option is a win, in my book. Lastly, many times in my life, I’ve felt like that orange tulip—a weirdo outsider, awkwardly standing out but faced with the decision to bloom as my authentic self or shrink back. I’ve decided to bloom, even though growing sometimes comes with pain. However, for the most part, the other tulips seem more than happy to share the flower bed.