This is Gary. He is an expert at putting things off. Gary is a procrastinator. A victim of his own behavior. Sure, procrastinators usually miss opportunities because they’re so overwhelmed by what they have not done. And too little focused on what they need to do. You see? Procrastination is opportunities’s natural assassin. Kills productivity; […]
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You have been asked by your boss to lead a team to tackle a huge project. Or you are moving. And you need to clean out the garage. Or a basement full of stuff that has accumulated over decades. The question with each of these is, “Where do I start! How do I get started!!” […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/A86D856A-3755-46F5-AA4E-F0BC1F3D0673.png10241024Bob Brickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley2026-02-16 14:01:072026-03-03 10:56:20… “and it came to us.“
Throw a small rock into a placid lake. It makes a splash. But more importantly, it has a rippling effect on the entire lake. Such can be the effect words can have when communicating. They can radiate, have far more impact than we think. Did you ever notice how you can connect with someone, with […]
Did you know that humans are the only animals on earth that can make a decision between stimulus and response? It is true. All other animals? Take a stimulus in one ear and speed it out the other. Instantly, without any thought. But we have what is known as a “mental screen” that allows us, […]
Relationships can be complicated. This “Relationship Tip” is based on a simple premise. Any goal or gesture made without a a specific commitment or deadline is most times… meaningless. Before I go further, a little disclaimer. The picture above is of a man and a woman having coffee together. Maybe he’s tried to connect to […]
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Resilience The art of the comeback Resilience… the word this year. Good one, don’t you think? Well, YEAH! Of course. My coach always told me, “There are no sufferings … only challenges” I won’t name them all. But we’ve really had our challenges this year haven’t we. There is much I could share with you […]
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“As we go through life, there are no sufferings … Only challenges.” I read an article yesterday that inspired me to write this piece. As I describe all this. Please know I am relating this to illustrate the main point driving this piece. The impact of “positivity” … at the expense of full accuracy. Some […]
Well done my good and faithful servant Mathew 25:23 On a day when my emotions peak, my release is writing. This morning is one of those days. A dear friend, Guy …may be as I write this, moving on. Joining his Lord, our Lord … soon. The memories abound. I’ve known him for more than […]
The events of this past week have hit us all in different ways. I have a good friend who asked me yesterday, “Bob, I never knew who Charlie Kirk was. But when he was assassinated, I was impacted in ways I really don’t understand. Actually, brought me to tears.” This got me thinking. You know, […]
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I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was duty. I worked—and behold, duty was joy. This beautiful quote from Victor Frankel’s book “Yes to Life” offers a revealing truth. Life isn’t “out there.” It’s right here. Now. Our “if only”s … “someday I’ll”s … Always reach for the […]
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Jon Batiste, the renowned jazz musician, was featured on the CBS show “Sunday Morning” yesterday. His story was spellbinding. Surpassed only by the magic of his music. He closed a twenty minute interview saying simply, “Strap In.” These two words beaconed the depth of his challenges despite his great fame. The emotional wounds he and […]
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Jeffrey Stein, my cousin in law, just sent me a video (very Mary Tyler Moore- ish) that inspired the following. Petey knew way back she’d live her life “in the moment.” It’s at this moment I had to write this … I’ve got some amazing relatives. Accomplished, loving. And just fun. None of them is […]
Four years ago I wrote a piece celebrating my favorite restaurant … anywhere. I’m revisiting, updating my experience here. “Why is this place always so full?” My guest yesterday for lunch asked me this question. When he asked me, I was moved to write this. One other thing happened too that I’ll share with you […]
My two daughters were meeting a few years ago in NY. Neither had any idea what the other would be wearing. They look like twins here … but they are not. They do have the same mother though. My wife. They dressed exactly alike this day. Only one example of how close they are. All […]
Not his nickname necessarily. Just what I call him. David Peak and I attended competing prep schools (his school competition for mine?? No) … in Philadelphia fifty plus years ago. Went to the same college. Never knew each other very well. But three years ago, we reconnected. “Mysteriously” For reasons we don’t understand to this […]
Maybe you like me are exhausted hearing about Millennials and Generation Zs congregating in groups … world wide. Spreading what now is the widest infections of COVID 19 so far! Attempts to contain these “children” has proven unsuccessful if not impossible. Welcome to that ever quoted truism, “You reap what you sow.”All get a trophy […]
The front page of the WSJ this morning featured a picture of the sun. Our source of daily light and warmth. The word “light” has come to me a lot lately. Feeling light. From the Bible, Let your light so shine before men … A recent allusion of a guiding ray of light from a […]
One key when coaching is what I call one’s “preferred future.” Questions like “Who am I?” … “Where am I going?” … “What am I called to do?” I believe you eventually become what you think about. So define it. Visualize it. Write it down. Get clear about where you’re headed in life. Why? Because, […]
George Andrews … a very dear friend, shared these messages with me back in April. I revisited them this morning and wanted to save them so I might reread them often. Sharing them here … Writing to Save the Day. Writing can be a true spiritual discipline. Writing can help us to concentrate, to get in […]
It’s a month before my 75th birthday. A good friend of mine wanted to help me celebrate! While at lunch one day he asked me this. “You’ve coached literally hundreds of people over decades. Is there a common “thread” in each of them you can identify? A key to all your interactions with so many […]
“It’s about time!” … hear this a lot. But this phrase applies particularly well here. I just finished reading an article written in “The Trinity Reporter,” a college publication. Wanted to catch the spirit … my emotions at this moment. The article honored a friend of mine for his lifetime of commitment to a cause, […]
There’s been quite a lot of commotion these days about the emergence of “Zoom.” A fabulous new technology actually. At the beginning of this year? Zoom sessions totaled about 10M per month. Today meetings, events, cocktail hours. Wow! We never have to go to the office any more. Maybe schooling on line can really be […]
I’ve always known that writing memorializes experiences, people, events that define a life lived. Joys, sorrows, victories, defeats. All the things that make up the human condition. All God sends our way.Yesterday I had an experience I hope my grandchildren … actually all my family members will read … think about.I will be 75 on […]
An unexpected emotional aspect of this virus mess for me? A deepened feeling of sentimentality. Even a little check in with my mortality. People today say we’re realizing those things in life that are “really important, that matter” For me, remembering past experiences, relationships, joys are among my “really importants.” Yesterday I was looking at […]
Zoom!! “Why don’t we just do a Zoom call.” Today? Maybe 3, 4 times a day … I’m asked to have a Zoom call. With a coachie, a group, a friend for “cocktail hour.”Hey! Now we don’t have to drive anymore to see one another. Worry about that reserving for lunch. “Is there room at […]
You get out of bed … you brush your teeth … you eat your breakfast … you go to work … you come home … you eat dinner … you go to bed. Then you do it … all over again. Or at least you used to. Remember that TV Ad? All the things we […]
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“Cuneiform” is an ancient writing system that was first used around 3400 BC. Said to be the very first writings. Writing. An ancient art. Simply timeless. This blog. Close to 180 posts so far. Not without effort. But in many ways so natural, therapeutic. And I find so very revealing as well. A dear friend recently, […]
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Nancy and I watched a movie the other day. “I Still Believe” won’t win Academy Awards. But that afternoon it was surely worthy of one. A box of used Kleenex was piled between us after viewing. A true, inspiring, and yet very sad story about a rising nineteen year old country music star, his loving girlfriend, […]
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I was privileged to attend one of the finest prep schools in the country … The William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. My loyalty to the school is strong … real strong. Since graduating in 1963 I’ve traveled from CT and Atlanta over many years to join in special events at the school. You know, […]
A revered friend of mine passed away last year. Most of us fear dying or getting seriously illness. He knew he was going to die. His cancer was terminal. I flew to Philadelphia last summer a few months before he died to essentially say goodbye. He was one of the most admired people in the […]
Have you ever tried to slide your way down a steep grassy hill in sneakers? Front leg in front. Slipping … inching your way down? Losing your grip. Falling even? I have. And this morning? That’s how this all feels. Like a never ending slippery traverse down a seemingly endless, steep grassy hill. My thoughts […]
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Events of the past two weeks, the last two days really. Have certainly been “times that try men’s souls.” Shaken my foundation. The pace of change for me has never been this breathtaking. Not only am I not alone … all on earth are experiencing the same emotions, fueled by so much fear and anxiety.I […]
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I came across a very interesting person recently. Can’t remember his name … just his story. He was a writer. A good writer. Ambitious. Wrote for years … (kinda like me). I related to him. Big ideas. “I’ll change the world with my writings!” He got great responses to his writings. “But I can’t break […]
She’s my little sister. “Chrost” is our loving nickname for her. She was born five years behind me. She’ll never be as old as me … but she’ll always be very special to me. Seventy … 70 great years with Christine. Fun times, some challenging ones too. But above all, we love each other … […]
lingua franca … A bridge language, communication … linkage between two people connecting them. How people speaking two different languages can connect with one another. Without words. lingua franca … there are no words. (Admittedly I take some liberty with my use of lingua franca here.) But it helps me make my point. Lynda Denworth wrote […]
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The following is a revision … a reprint of a post from 2017. The “Fahey Cup” lives on. We will gather to celebrate our 20th “Fahey” next year at Essex County Club … The first “Fahey Cup” took place in 2001 at Essex County Club outside Boston. A group of my fraternity brothers from our […]
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A few early morning musings today. These always surprise me. Not only because they show up. But more because they are so vivid … compelling. Anyway. This morning? A friend of one comes to mind. I’ll not identify him here, because he probably would prefer I not. One of the reasons I write about him. […]
Bobby Cox … “Bobby” as he is known here in Atlanta and throughout all of Major League Baseball was the legendary manager of the Atlanta Braves for an astounding twenty seven years. Under his leadership the Braves won fourteen consecutive National League Division championships. A feat equally as astounding. Bobby was known as the “players […]
I wrote recently about the death of my Aunt Sis. On reflection I realized something I had to write about this morning. I’ve been out of Philadelphia, my family home, for decades. Over thirty years really. When I was in Philly I really never saw my Aunt often. You know. Thanksgivings, Christmases mostly. Only saw […]
For the past twenty one years I’ve written a Christmas Letter to my family … in recent years more written for my grandchildren. For the past four years, I’ve picked a word … just one as a theme, a focus of my letter. Here’s this year’s version … Confidence … Passion … Determination … Faith […]
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I went to an all boys school. A private school. The William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. My mom and dad weren’t wealthy. So there were some sacrifices made to send me there. My father was insistent that I attend his alma mater. I would later learn there were many other fathers, alumni … who […]
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A repeat of a Holiday message originally written and posted in December of 2016. Merry Christmas to all … Al Bailey’s my newspaper guy. For 26yrs he has delivered my morning paper. 5:15am every morning, double wrapped rain or shine. Has never missed! Al’s amazing. I have sent him a check every year in thanks. For his […]
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Nancy and I watched a movie last night. In it a beautiful lady played by Rene Zellweger experienced a saddening death after a long bout with cancer. Maudlin … filled with despair. I’ve had occasional sparks of thought in recent months about my own mortality. Natural being in my mid seventies. You know. How do […]
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My Aunt Sis died yesterday. Sadness for sure. But at 90? Good for her. Wow! Did the memories flood in as I talked on my phone … to my brother, my sister, my cousins. The word that springs to my mind as I remember her … “elegant” Was she ever. Never really knew her well […]
A dear friend of mine sent this to me last night. At this special time, please take a little time … to embrace the “space between the notes” and give thanks … enjoy. Gratitude, appreciation and thankfulness have been on my mind, lately. These are ingredients in the soup of kindness. A simple introduction to […]
In a ancient times there lived two groups of people who lived in villages adjacent to one another. Times were trying. Survival … existence was what most of life was about. Food and water were scarce. They all lived in tattered clothing. Life was just very challenging One day all the villagers were summoned by a […]
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Back and forth … back and forth … back and forth. Reciprocal things. A metronome. A swaying branch on a tree. A swing. An unforgettable, repeating melody. So many things move slowly back and forth, so rhythmically show beauty. The symmetry in life. Call it reciprocity. Nancy and I had dinner with two dear friends […]
Friends ask every once in awhile, “Are you Ok?” Think I’m nuts when I write about some things. This may be one. But just me. Here goes… Sometimes a quick flash in time … a moment can hit me. Never defining. Just a bright sliver of experience. A glimpse when something seemingly very small … […]
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I’m an Episcopalian. Don’t even know why I opened this piece with this sentence. It was top of mind, I guess. My thoughts a flowing. Maybe because I just finished reading the first thirty six pages of a small book entitled, “The Power of Love.” A great guy … dear friend sent it to me […]
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One of the challenges one faces later in life is the passing of friends … maybe especially, old friends. Because with old friends the history is so rich. The memories rush to mind. Tears well as I recount them in most cases. Not just for this person. But because it also brings your own mortality […]
How does a shark die? It stops swimming. Hard to think we resemble this gruesome creature. But in a way many of us do. We are always “swimming.” A daily refrain I hear. “Oh, I’m just so busy!” Don’t get me wrong. Much of busy is good. Necessary! We just have to get things done. But […]
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I often see things that converge together. It happened again this morning when I watched a “Talk Talk” on the subject of dying. There, a man with only one limb left on his body, gave a stunning eighteen minute talk. His speech lovingly dealt with death as “soft” … even “celebratory.” Deflecting much of the […]
A distant remembrance of the guys above flashed to my mind this morning. Memories from my childhood. Nugget and Dusty at the home of my grandparents here. On North Wayne Ave in Wayne, Pa. A grand Spanish styled place. Long drive way. Circular at the end. As you approached the front of the house, a double […]
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Yesterday I read an eighty year study at Harvard on “happiness.” Involved a couple of thousand men, women. What makes one happy? Riches … accomplishments … pride … status. All the things we strive for. Are these really key to what makes us truly happy? Don’t think so. The key? According to Harvard. Nourishing, lasting […]
Can there be a more special moment than watching my granddaughter spontaneously show her “feelings” while on the ocean …Many years ago my coach told me, “Bob you don’t really feel.” Huh? I can cry at a Ford commercial. “No” he said. “You, most of us get emotional. We don’t really feel. Feelings and emotions […]
I always have a hard time when a coaching relationship comes to an end. As most do. Some only last a month. I have two that have lasted over fifteen years. A coaching process of mine that spanned almost three years ended last week. Let me tell you a little about it. One day while coaching […]
As a Life Coach I’m often asked, “Coaching. What’s that mean? What do you do?” Frankly, I’ve always found it hard to describe. Non factual, behavior based … life coaching is more art than science. It requires listening deeply. Trying to explore the parts of ones human psyche, emotions that define the issues to be […]
I had lunch with a good friend of mine yesterday. Good because we are extremely open … vulnerable with one another. Granted we’re both right brainers … emotional, instinctive, very people oriented. We soar from topic to topic. Share perspectives on mutual challenges. Our wins and our losses. Laugh a lot. You get it. We […]
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It’s a rare gift when you get an hour, even a day with your grandchildren. But when you have three days? Well … just a blast! A lot of magic has to follow … it did. Such was the case this past weekend. At the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. With my three […]
What is wisdom? While the definition my be elusive, we usually know it when we see it. Don’t we. Typically, my “older” friends come across as wise. But why? As I thought about it? Experience may be the primary ingredient in wisdom. Seeing things in the context of where one has been, seen … experienced. […]
“What’s wrong with me?” This is the question I’ve been asked most over the years I’ve been coaching. “What’s wrong with me?” “I have these issues I need to address. Why? Why me?” So, what’s wrong? Really nothing. What you discover about you, the issues we all face? All are grounded in our life experiences. […]
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… failure is never fatal. I learned the other day that if a shark stops swimming … it will die. It needs to keep swimming to keep oxygen rich water flowing through it’s gills. Of course without rest and sleep … we would all expire. But the shark’s dilemma does provide a message to heed. We can […]
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Nancy and have a number of memorable vacation spots. While visiting our favorite four years ago … Harbor Island in the Bahamas we came upon a small sign we have hanging in our kitchen. Simply inscribed … “Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much” Coincidently I read this message early this morning.I spent the last two […]
As the common saying goes, “There’s no “I” in team.” No I agree. But great teamwork requires many “eyes” to be successful doesn’t it. Consider a slam dunk when eye contact from the passer sends the dunker to the rim. Consider a quarterback who eyes his receiver indicating what pattern he should run.Consider the eye […]
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Not the marching chant. Rather … this. Nancy and I have a couple we see often. Conversation always very balanced, back and forth. Over dinner mostly. Really fun.I’ve noticed something interesting. Our chatter usually moves to a pattern as these evenings unfold.He ends up talking to Nancy. I end up talking to his wife. Oh […]
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As a coach I’m absolute with all I work with … you must reach outside yourself with your aspirations, desires, define your end game. Life with purpose is as essential as the air we breathe. Gives us a vibrancy that colors the journey.This comes naturally with some. Less so with others. Infrequently, purpose escapes a […]
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I may be accused of covering the same theme here … over and over. But I don’t think there is anything that changes us more than how we see others. Extend ourselves to others. And receive so much in return. Even while slow aging. Makes us brighter. More open and inviting. So … repetitious or […]
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What could I possibly mean by these? Well, I’ve decided to act, behave differently every time I sit at a bar, fly in a plane or get my haircut. What do all these experiences have in common? People. Usually to my right. My left. People I have never met.Previously, I chose never to engage with […]
I interviewed a young man yesterday for a client here in Atlanta.At the end of all interviews I conduct, I tell the candidate, “Now I’m your consultant. Ask me anything you’d like to. About me, you, the opportunity before you.”He replied, “Do you think I’m the type of person who could succeed here?”To which I […]
“Vulnerability and trust are kissin’ cousins.”I’ve shared this thought with those I coach for years. Putting yourself at risk … emotional risk. Being open. The most difficult risk to take in life? … the emotional risk.Showing others true challenging emotions. Need, hurt, sadness, failure. Most react with “Don’t do it.” Right? Whatever the feeling. Oh, […]
Work with my coach Chris revealed years ago that my Achilles heal has always been my feeling of rejection. Experienced as early as kindergarten, my eyes were severely crossed. Blindness in my left eye at birth was the cause.We know how children can be unintentionally cruel. My grammar school friends unknowingly were. I was pointed […]
A friendship. One seeded in college. But it really sprouted five years ago. With a Diet Coke in Wilmington. DE, A three hour conversation and we bonded. But as we have since shared … a bit unexpectedly. We all know those friends who kindly offer, “We have to get together sometime.” … “I’ll call you next […]
I hope you’ve had a friend or two you see infrequently, but always reconnect with instantly. Connection rich in history, emotionally resonant. Dave Montgomery was this kind of friend to me. Monty died yesterday. I’ll not try to address his incredible resume here. Rather I’d like to share a few stories as so many others […]
No … I’m not referring to 💤💤s … as in sleep. Rather I’m remembering the gathering of dear relatives of mine, I’ll call them “Zs” … last Sunday in Doylestown, PA. The occasion? The Easter Sunday christening of the latest addition to our clan, four month old Ezra.“Z”s traveled from San Francisco, Charlotte NC, Atlanta […]
This was written in May 2017 … I am posting it today in celebration of his 92nd birthday … I was new to Atlanta… loved my golf, maybe the friendships the game gifted me above all. Then there was that day in the summer of 1990 when that Series 7 BMW roared up my driveway […]
The Tiger Woods story will be told for years to come. A legendary athletic feat that stunningly evolved before our eyes last week. Maybe never to have a parallel in sports … life even. Not to overdramatize, but the dynamics of Tiger’s feat for me go so beyond golf itself. Moreover Sunday’s scene on the […]
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“Runaway” friends? What could I possibly mean by that?! Friends I’ve fought with … who left me?! Maybe because I was mean to them or maybe just because I needed to change deodorant? No … let me explain.Nancy and I just came home from a week at Runaway Hill on Harbour Island. Our refuge, our love […]
The following is a piece I sent to Nancy’s sister. We’ve shared laughs over the years about those we’ve known who simply always take themselves way too seriously … like this gal here. Camille. We’re at Runaway Hill on Harbor Island. Having dinner at the Landings. A restaurant here owned by a loan shark. Why? So […]
“The Space Between the Notes” is now three years old. Over 100 posts. Thanks to you who have taken time to visit. Allowing me to share intimate thoughts and experiences that I’ve felt were worth sharing. Again my greatest purpose here? To leave these writings for my precious grandchildren. But then my mentor, guru told […]
I read a biblical message every morning. Yesterday the passage entitled, The Power of Silence. Just sitting, doing nothing and allowing a spiritual “message” or two float into your mind. I had an email exchange yesterday with my nephew Scotty. Someone I see infrequently. Today during my “quiet time” he came to me. Thus this. […]
I watch TV commentary a lot. I go to Starbucks most mornings. I talk to millennials. One thing I’ve noticed that these experiences have in common? Everything runs at high speed today.Technology has been defining. Of our culture, all the increased productivity we benefit from. Good! But the speed of life? Most times I make […]
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If your like me, the news, … the plethora of TV pundits is kinda like a bathroom sink that won’t drain. A worthless pool of stuff in need of a good shot of Drano to clean the sludge out. I’m a loyal American. But too many times I feel like I’ve got hair like the […]
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My father was an unforgettable character. A great athlete, wonderful provider. And even though he rarely told me so … very proud of me. He taught me many lessons. None more important than this one. “Be yourself.” This piece of advice has always resonated with me. I’ve utilize a behavioral diagnostic in my coaching practice […]
I’ve mentioned I have five grandchildren. They’re always a wonder, such a joy. A fleeting but constant thought I’ve had? How can I help them learn about Faith. It may be universally accepted that our world today is a very challenging space to navigate. Fortunately, those of us who’ve lived through other cycles of societal […]
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Life is finite. This comes front and center for me at weddings and funerals. The beginnings of the new, and all the promise ahead. The endings honoring lives well lived.As glorious and saddening as both events are? For me? There is one inescapable truth … fulfillment of God’s promise. His Love may never be more […]
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If you’ve read any of this Blog you know I was blessed at age 51 to “uncover” my calling in life … helping people grow. I was fortunate three years ago to meet this 33yr old “kid” from Jackson, MS. “Kid” because I hope Taylor in many ways will always be, yea, a “kid.” Taylor’s a […]
“What a great time,”A simple phrase Nancy and I share when being with another couple. Hard to find two people you both like. Sound familiar. Usually like either lemon or lemonade. But you know what’s usually key to having a good time with two others? A mutual exchange of ideas, questions, interest in learning about […]
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What is a martyr? By definition … … Seeking out suffering or persecution because it either feeds a psychological need or a desire to avoid responsibility … some call this Victim Complex In all my years coaching I’ve faced challenging human conditions of all varieties. Confusion … depression … recklessness. All of them. Good people seeking […]
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After 50+ years of building, working with teams large and small, I have learned one indisputable thing. Culture trumps strategy … every time. Early in 2017 I had lunch with a guy a client of mine wanted me to check out for him. He arrived in a three piece suit, twenty minutes late … loquacious. […]
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Nick Foles. Hardly a household name. That’s until his heroic performance in last year’s Super Bowl. Subbing for injured quarterback Carson Wentz … not having thrown a pass in a game all season, Foles lead his underdog Philadelphia Eagles to an inspiring victory over the perennial champion New England Patriots. Devastating my 12 yr old […]
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Our President. Trump, “Hits Back!” Well, he does. But what if he didn’t? At least not quite as much. Let me share a story that may help address this question. Legendary hockey player Mark Messier starred in the NHL for a quarter of a century from 1974-2009. During his inspiring career he was much admired. […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/52D4E4A2-5469-4AF6-81E2-EF7F735D8A23.jpeg25001652Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2018-12-14 09:12:012018-12-14 09:12:01He Never Hit Back …
The death of George H.W. Bush this passed weekend hit me unexpectedly hard. As I meditated this morning, I realized why. Bush’s oldest son Neil said, yesterday, “My father led with love.” In fact his last words were in response to his son George’s last words to his father, “Dad, l love you. I will see you […]
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The status quo dies hard. After all it has one of the most powerful forces on the planet as its ally. Fear. Changing things disrupting status quo can be scary.Fear is … the enemy of change… stealer of ambition… the champion of the half measure, the checked swing, the almost-there. It softens the hard stance, […]
In the movie the “Dream Girls” Beyoncé performs the song “Listen.” “With a song in my heart…🎶” she sings as she laments about a boyfriend who simply won’t listen to her. I learned a long time ago that I never learn anything while I’m talking. Lunch with a good friend last Monday confirmed this to […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2018-11-21 12:33:022018-11-21 12:33:02The Gift of Listening …
Coasting …“I’m a success.” … “I’ve retired” … “I’ve never been happier.”All statements I’ve heard from others. “I can just sit back and enjoy the ride.”Not so fast.There’s only one way to coast…and that’s downhill.Coasters. That’s what I call them. Those who’ve done it all. Look at me-ers. Better than most.If you run into a […]
NEVER FORGET YOUR FRIENDS A newlywed young man was sitting on the porch on a humid day, sipping ice tea with his father. As he talked about adult life, marriage, responsibilities, and obligations, the father thoughtfully stirred the ice cubes in his glass and cast a clear, sober look on his Son. “Never forget […]
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I got a call last week from a former fifty eight year old client of mine. Wanted to get together for lunch. “I just wanted to thank you for helping me change, see my business in a way that has been key to all the success I’ve accomplished.” I thanked him. Couldn’t really recall what […]
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My image of heaven has always been a place up in the sky … a journey through a tunnel of bright light. No fear. Ascension of the spirit. Life’s final passage. Many have lucidly described their life-death experiences.My coach and I were discussing heaven yesterday. The journey into eternity… embraced, enveloped in all consuming Love. […]
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We all have friendships. Those you have had for awhile. New ones. Maybe you’ve moved, retired somewhere or just met some friends along the way. Friends are key. Children move on to build their own lives and families. Close relatives pass away. But your friends are and will be there always … remain a central part […]
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REPEATED FROM A PREVIOUS BLOG POST …The beautiful passage below is offered with respect but intention … to all my fellow users of technology. All that time you spend on your devices will rob you of the essence of this beautiful missive. May block you from the blessings of relationship, intimacy, even Love. You may […]
If you asked someone, “What’s the opposite of Love?” The normal reply, “Hate”. I ask this question frequently, and I get the same reply, “Hate”. Richard Jampolsky wrote a book in 1979 entitled, Love is Letting Go of Fear… Groundbreaking then… even more so today. You can buy it on Amazon. In fact what I’ve learned? […]
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We met on an airplane in 1989 traveling to an industry convention. “Hi, I’m BB Brown. Where’d you get those glasses?” (They were metal… horn rim. So like BB to notice.)“Where’re ya from?” (BB is always more interested in you than trying to be interesting himself). Turned out we were in both in the life insurance business. We compared […]
Last Saturday evening I had the honor of attending the 50th anniversary celebration of my long term consulting client, The Benefit Company. I was asked to say a few words, reflect on my twenty plus years serving this great team of professionals.I won’t go into the specifics of this wonderful event. Just let me say […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2018-08-21 07:17:272018-08-21 07:17:27Abundant vs Scarcity Mentality
I believe we all get messages… I call them “whispers.” Instinctive flashes of thought that most of us ignore, rarely act upon. Call them messages from God. Or maybe they come from spirits that are in our midst. Some think this as well. Or maybe they’re just there … to heed or not.Whatever the source, […]
Italy… 2018. Check out the impassioned words of our exceptional guide Mario Marcosano as Nancy and I journeyed through southern Italy last week …“Ladies and gentlemen. I couldn’t help but notice Bob and Nancy holding hands yesterday as they walked together. So romantic. Such a beautiful, loving couple.”Well, we do love each other. Forty seven years […]
Independence Day. Martin Luther King said, “From every mountainside… Let freedom ring.” Indeed our uniqueness is rooted in this very concept. Let freedom ring!I would ask you on this day to consider this. What might freedom suggest, offer each of us in addition of Dr. King’s declaration.Think about the Fourth of July as the day […]
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America has lost a hero. That term may be overused. But Charles Krauthammer was certainly a hero. He died last week. Charles was the essence of integrity, authenticity and grace. Fox News aired a special last Friday. A rich, vibrant recounting of Krauthammer’s life. Told mostly by him in a reserved, erudite manner. Shared openly […]
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We all at one time have had a challenging, uncomfortable, even toxic relationship with another person. A colleague at work. An old, difficult friend. Or yes, even a relative or spouse. You tough it out because you decide to. Or in some cases… you persevere because you feel you have to. Or just because your “supposed” […]
May 21-25, 2018 Have you ever had one of those magical weeks? You know six or seven days in a row when everything just clicks? I have. My last one was just last week. Where do I start … A warning. This post may resemble War and Peace before it’s done, so buckle up. Capturing, […]
The New York best seller, I’ve Been Thinkin’ by Maria Shriver is a thought provoking collection of short chapters detailing the lessons she has learned during her life filled with challenges, loss and unusual heartache. A father who she adored dying of Alzheimers, Arnold, and of course the tragedy of being a member of the […]
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Chris Andersonn has coached me for over 20 years. He lives in California. I live in Georgia. We talk for an hour… hour and a half… every 10 days or so. By phone. We’ve met only twice and yet he is one of the most important people in my life.M. Scott Peck wrote a book […]
I many ways I live an enchanted life. Enough cash, a great family, lots of golf… the amazing people I coach. This week Nancy and I are on Harbor Island. An idyllic two mile square paradise off Eleuthera in the Bahamas. We’ve been coming here the last five years. Will continue to come here for […]
We all get down at times. Some of us (actually quite a few of us) have suffered from depression or other form of mental illness. But I’ve discovered some interesting things about being down… depressed. Examples: a loss… a game, a job, a relationship. These are times to be clear. These are times when you […]
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Life is about movement… moving is essential to health, well being. We live in “Now” and “Next.” All we have in a given moment. But transition. Moving from one phase of life to another is always challenging. From college to that first job; marriage; divorce, … “retirement” (a myth as I’ve offered before). Many more.In […]
Technology rears it’s ugly head periodically. My Blog does not escape this reality. Those interested will notice a change in the format of the Blog. The “Theme” (whatever that means) supporting the Blog is now “unsupported.” I had to change the “theme” or my Blog would disappear.So the format has changed. Not for the better in […]
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If coffee beans in Brazil are sold for $.20 pound … but a cup of coffee on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy costs $20 …What’s the difference? … The Total Experience.You could dine in Atlanta every day for a year… and never visit the same restaurant twice. Never.I have my favorites. We are blessed […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/IMG_2092.jpeg6941500Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2018-03-03 10:27:122018-03-03 10:27:12The Blue Ridge Grille
Horror … Evil … Catastrophe … all words that knife through the hearts of us all. Today another incident in Florida brings these words front and center as we process the unspeakable.But I have always wondered. Words matter… But. What’s the action to follow, serve as urgent response to prevent future repeats of the evil […]
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Nick Foles, the MVP of this year’s unique Super Bowl following the Eagles victory over the Patriots said this. “I never would be here if it hadn’t been for a million failures.” Lady Gaga composed the song “A Million Reasons”. The chorus goes something like this. “… there are a million reasons to leave. But […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2018-02-09 09:56:462018-02-09 09:56:46A Million Reasons …
Have you ever had someone walk in a room and suddenly there’s silence? Have you ever conversed with someone and found them absolutely spellbinding? I have. A lot of this has to do with the “resonance” people like these possess. A personal magnetism. Now what do I mean by “resonance”? It really has to do […]
It’s taken me some time to learn that coaching is far more art than science. Hard to mechanize, structure. Three I coach currently have been with me for 8, 9 and 10 years respectively. Longer than the pursuit of any graduate or doctoral degree. You would think we’d run out of material… stuff to work […]
I read a lot. Four hundred books on the shelves in my office tell me so. I am always inspired when true words of wisdom, quotes fuel my passion for coaching people… helping them grow. Here are my Top Five from 2017. Motives for new beginnings as a new year unfolds… “As a man thinketh […]
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Gratitude, expectation, resolution. A time to begin anew… birth new ways if living, explore new possibilities. So vivid with hope. And always faced as well with the challenges to succeed.This is where I start with the new year. Looking through the “Rearview Mirror” to grasp what I learned last year. Then turning my gaze to […]
Gary and me. The Not So Odd Couple? … not odd at all. We’ve known each other for a long time. But have really gotten closer in recent years. Both of us excelled in the insurance industry. I’m the “Oscar” … Gary’s the “Felix” in this Not So Odd Couple. Unique.You see I had a […]
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For the last 19 years I have written a letter at Christmas to my family. I share the 19th with you here.FAITHFaith is trust, assurance and confidence in God.Living faith is shown by service and obedience to God. I write this year’s Christmas letter to my amazing grandchildren… We talked about “edge” a lot this year, […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-12-18 11:57:302017-12-18 11:57:30The Christmas Letter
This beautiful quote from a poem by Robert Frost is thought provoking. The symmetry of the verse challenges you and comforts you at the same time. There are two distinct parts …First, “And did you get all you wanted from this life” … ? The second? “… even so?” I’ve spent some wonderful years accomplishing much. […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-12-09 13:07:432017-12-09 13:07:43“And did you get all you wanted from this life, even so?”
If the ax is dull and one does not sharpen the edge,then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.Ecclesiastes 10:10I’ve always been a devotee of the great Stephen Covey. He authored the life changing book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective” People.I taught his course for two years. Covey’s seventh habit was “Sharpen […]
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I have long been deeply concerned. No actually shocked at the erosion of our value system as a free and prosperous people today. Values and principles that have underpinned so much of who we are as a country, a civilized nation for centuries. Respect, morality, service, integrity all seem to be disappearing as our culture […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-11-11 09:24:542017-11-11 09:24:54A Great Contradiction…
Simply, this means. Something that disappears into nothing. I’ve attended hundreds of meetings in my life. Business, personal. When someone is asked why they hate meetings? “BECAUSE THEY’RE SO BORING !!” There are things in common with meetings that have always confounded me.Most meetings are well intentioned. Not all for sure. Too many agenda-less. Most […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-10-19 07:16:232017-10-19 07:16:23Out Into the Ether …
Catharsis … providing psychological relief through theopen expression of strong emotions. This past week was a unique one for me. Cathartic… unexpectedly. It’s true… cathartic. What happened.I’ve mentioned in a previous posting my long time special gathering every year with twenty three of my fraternity brothers to golf, dine, share. For three days. We have […]
… the higher you go. This is actually something most of you may already know. What do I mean by “Deeper?” Abraham Lincoln, Oprah Winfrey, Bobby Darin. (Who’s Bobby Darin? Google him). How’s that for diversity. All came from lowly backgrounds … In Oprah’s case? Poverty stricken. You’ve heard the stories. One room home for […]
I’ve become very nocturnal. Love the very early part of a new day. In bed early. Get 7 hours of sleep every night. Clock just awakes me at 2-2:30am. Always alive with anticipation of the stuff ahead. Because my days are full… I need time to settle, plan, imagine what’s ahead. A lot of this […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-09-25 08:08:212017-09-25 08:08:21Don’t Fear Alone Time …
We all like to believe we’re a “person of character.” Right? I’m not one to cite others failings, flaws. Like you I hope I give others the benefit of the doubt when they stumble, fall. “Let him who is without sin, cast the first stone.”Ok. But Hillary Clinton’s book outing this week left me breathless. […]
I’ve coached some big guys in my day. CEOS… entrepreneurs.They have gotten where they are by taking risks. Usually well calculated, but not always. Financially, career wise. The bets they’ve taken and won. That’s what’s made them “big.”But I’ve discovered that with all the trappings. The cars, homes, all the $$. You get it. The […]
The following with some revision on my part was sent to me this week by a friend. Beautiful. Inspired by tragedy… immersed in love. As the floods subside. As the cameras leave. We, those not effected by this devastation, will return to our normal lives. Many say, “This great outpouring won’t last long.” Hurricane Sandy… […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-09-02 07:25:082017-09-02 07:25:08Houston? We have an Opportunity…
I truly love the great people I have the privilege of coaching. They all want to grow. They’re “seekers.” Curious about themselves, others. Success to them? Varies with each one.Failures. They have had their bunch. Me too. Regrets… recent stumbles. Childhood memories hard to erase. These are real mental “wounds.” Just as hurtful as any […]
I hear this a lot. You too? “Oh, what a coincidence!” You know the person you see in the grocery store you were just thinking about. That phone call that came from someone you haven’t heard from in years. What coincidences! I got a call from an old acquaintance earlier this week who I really […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/D01E342B-E58C-453C-81B1-D7182CB75D32.jpeg22202500Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-08-25 09:18:462017-08-25 09:18:46“What a Coincidence!”
I am so grateful. Start all my mornings… up around 2:30-3. In bed last night at 7:30. Do the math before gasping. Previewed the new Mercedes Benz Stadium yesterday. New home of my Atlanta Falcons. Incredible. But draining too.In the sack early after another enchanting day.You see my life experiences today are good… bad, actually […]
If you’ve read a number of the posts in this Blog, you’ve gathered that relationships… love of people is my passion. I’m asked, “Where did you learn all this stuff?” In truth I am “home schooled.” Three hundred books in my office attest to the fact this is so. Lots of studying with mentors. All […]
The mind can be a tricky. We look forward and we look backward. What’s in front of us. What’s in back of us. Both are important.Consider this though. All we can control, can address are NOW and NEXT. The current moment and our next action… what we decide… NOW, a decision in the moment then […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-08-16 07:59:532017-08-16 07:59:53Windshield and Rearview Mirror…
As a coach, I deal with the full range of human emotions… challenging situations we all find ourselves in at different times.“He does this.” “She does that.” “Why is this happening to me?”Always emotionally annoying. If not addressed, gradually intense. People don’t come to me until the problem is acute. In most cases the person […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-08-07 08:28:352017-08-07 08:28:35Pleasing… Rarely Works
I have been in and around the life insurance industry for decades… almost five. A noble calling in my experience. A career in life insurance despite the “one level above a car salesman” jokes is dedicated to a fundamental concept. Protecting human life value. Their are unprofessionals in the business… like most businesses. Relationships at […]
A great man reaches highest whenhe reaches down to help another man up. I grew up on the Main Line in Philadelphia. Don’t say “Oh!” like most do. I wasn’t a “Main Liner”… Blue blood. I can remember this refined attractive elderly lady… the fifth time I met her. Went something like this. My Mom, […]
I chose this illustration for my Blog to depict the path or journey I find so many on today. The stairs. Firm and clear at the bottom. This is now. Driven to grow, climb based on decisions you’ve made along the way. About your life. About your path. About where you are going.But take heed. […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-07-10 09:11:082017-07-10 09:11:08Life and the Staircase…
On this Independence Day… reflecting seems so fitting.So here goes…I launched my blog… “The Space Between the Notes” in October of last year. 40 posts later, its time to take a little of my own medicine. Reflect on my own Spaces before racing to compose the Notes for #41.I’m one who believes your best when […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-07-03 08:27:072017-07-03 08:27:07After 40 Posts… Time to Reflect
Martha SterneI don’t know Martha Sterne well. Nancy and I have retired on “Someday Isle” when it comes to church. You know… some days I’ll go… some days I won’t.We have been members of All Saints Church however for 26yrs. Love the place. It’s because of wonderful people, clergy like Martha. Key reasons why this […]
I have many “bright lights” in my life today. People, events, learnings… all amplify my growth, my journey in these later years. None shines as bright as the “light”… joy I’ve received from my granddaughter, Payson. She’s beautiful, smart, feisty… maybe more so now as a teen. Full of energy. She spends most of it […]
AccountabilityTaking responsibility for something that youhave done or something you are supposed to do.Or more simply… doing what you say you will do. I have lived a life full of accountability. My own… helping others be accountable too. A much used word… most often misunderstood.But accountability lies at the root of character, respect… above all […]
Events will come into my life periodically … daily actually. That I feel are worth sharing. I find you may benefit because our lives are so parallel in so many ways… aren’t they. If you message me, “Hey, Bob… thanks for that.” If true …my time couldn’t be spent more rewardingly.Here’s my latest event l’d […]
I’m at Hartford’s Bradley Airport having just attended my 50th college reunion. A weekend full of faces known and unknown. “Who’s that?” … was a question I had to ask myself all weekend long. My class consisted of an incredibly accomplished, impressive group. Revealed in part by essays we all submitted prior to the event. […]
Jake …”Tee hee hee”… “Look, here comes Jake!” 10 year old girls in the hallway at Jackson Elementary. Giddy. Walking down the hallway? My grandson, Jake. Oblivious to the attention. Handsome, simply a beautiful child. Wide eyed little girls… well, just having fun admiring him for the moment. True story? Doesn’t matter if it’s true […]
There’s an article in the Wall Street Journal this morning entitled, Going Out to Lunch is a Dying Tradition. As one cited, “I put going out to lunch right up there with fax machines and pay phones.” Lost opportunity… a lost art really. The premise of this Blog is that we all need more Space […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-05-31 07:53:122017-05-31 07:53:12It’s Not Just Lunch …
Sight … hearing … smell … taste and touch. Our five senses. Today is fast. A blur at times. When do we pause! Stop to savor these five senses? The spaces between all those notes? Not often. We are consumed by the events, the pressures, the demands of life now. Ok. Is this our the […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img.jpg15362048Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-05-30 10:01:532017-05-30 10:01:53The Deep Pool Within…
Retirement is a myth. I’ve engaged with execs, business owners, even a few friends. Coaching them as they move from a career, a new phase of life… most times to “retirement.” The common story, “If I can just put in a little more time, and get to retirement. I will be free !!”… “Yes!!” Right? […]
Years ago Stephen Covey wrote a groundbreaking book elevating the concept of personal growth. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” Here are “14 Don’ts of Highly Effective People”Read ’em… repeat them… over and over. They will change you. Inspired, some borrowed from Amy Morin’s great book, “13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do” 1. […]
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The term, “experience of a lifetime”may be overused when describing a trip, an event you don’t forget. You know … just a great time. This week I had a just a great time! An experience that will resonate with me … for one long time. Two great friends, Gary and Patrick. Gary one of my […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IMG_2223.jpeg20481536Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-05-19 07:54:392017-05-19 07:54:39Pine Valley 2017 … A Reprise
Magicians are experts at the art of creating illusions. You may be too. With a friend, a person at work, your spouse. I certainly used to be… no more.” Illusion” is defined as… something perceived, distorted in a way that is different from reality. We all create illusions. Usually negative. Most are figments of our […]
Have you ever experienced times when you’re really in the “Zone”? When you were truly energized, at your very best… just on? Great eye contact with others; fluid speech; can’t miss during tennis, golf, playing bridge. For those of you who speak before groups, committees… the “pin drop” silence when you talk. One of the […]
I once worked with a super sales guy. Led his Company in sales most years. Three homes… the big Mercedes… ego galore. You didn’t have to ask him about these… he was more than willing totell you. Alan (not his real name) was very good at what he did. Which led me to send him […]
A few weeks ago I told a friend of mine I was taking my girls to Harbor Island. Just the four of us. Most I’d told had said “Wow! That’s amazing.” I expected the same reaction from my friend. He said, “Took my two kids and Jane to Switzerland skiing last Christmas. All the old […]
One thing I’ve always been good at … not letting ideas, thoughts, memories disappear, forgotten, never to be recaptured. My mantra? The weakest pencil stroke is better than the strongest memory.I’m asked a lot, “Bob, how do you remember all that stuff?” I don’t. Just don’t. You see I’ve learned a few techniques over decades […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-04-23 15:02:392017-04-23 15:02:39A Pencil Beats the Memory… Every Time
Where have they gone? Our values that is … our courtesies, our basic sense of respect, just plain decency. Our college campuses give me the most pause here. “My word is my bond.” Don’t hear this as often anymore. Now it’s PC… intolerance, angrily disagreeing… fighting with one another… way too much.Of course we’ve reaped […]
Nancy and I just celebrated 46 yrs of marriage. Incredible years filled with the joys of shared experiences, children, grandchildren. Just so many magical remembrances. Of course there were the down times too, and yes if I’m totally truthful even a question at times if I’d selected the right partner. I’m sure Nance had her […]
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Three years ago during an all employee meeting at Taylor Made Golf Equipment, the CEO asked the crowd of hundreds, “Would anyone like to share an idea they have for our upcoming year?” One young lady in the back of the room raised her slender hand and offered, “Sir, have you ever considered painting our […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-04-03 18:53:102017-04-03 18:53:10The “White” Driver and a 46th Wedding Anniversary…
Our world today is in chaos. Our politics, our resources, the Global order. The lives of so many people all over the world are in complete disarray. From Africa to the Middle East to right here in America. Some look at this mess and conclude… maybe a period of disruption is necessary before a new […]
“Why do I need a coach?” I’m asked this question all the time. Well, if things are going along “swimmingly”… you may not need a coach. “Yeah!”, you say. “I don’t! I’m on a roll, at the harvest, pulling fish into the boat as fast as I can.” Business is great! Right. I get it. […]
Harvard came out with a 72yr study recently. “1 Secret to a Fulfilling Life ” What did they conclude? The secret?… Love. 72 years, one word, love. Hmmm, how bout that. Further, “Good relationships keep us healthier, happier.” If you’re fortunate to have on or two people, relationships in your life you can share all […]
Last night Nancy and I attended the Annual Meeting of Ansley Golf Club here in Atlanta. A special place for our family. The meeting was electric… driven by the beauty of new construction, debt free financials, but most of all an overflowing ball room of excited members. A culture that always transcends the numbers, the […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-03-04 11:09:122017-03-04 11:09:12The Fahey Cup
Who am I? …We all go through phases, don’t we? The ups the downs. Those crucial decisions that define in many ways the path we choose for our lives. Marriage or significant other, career, avocations. The years after educating ourselves are dedicated to achieving things, paying the bills, success (defined in a number of ways). […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-03-04 11:03:022017-03-04 11:03:02Who Am I ?
Risk. I have found the greatest risk in life is… investing? starting a business? betting a bunch at Vegas? No. The greatest risk in life is taking an emotional risk. Confronting a colleague at work, a friend or a loved one when there are problems in the relationship. Making yourself vulnerable sharing your true heart […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-02-22 10:09:192017-02-22 10:09:19The Chasm and the Veil….
My grandfather was accomplished. Above all he was a real character. Many Sunday’s “Pop” would drive from his apartment in Germantown, Philadelphia to our home in the ‘burbs. Visit, have dinner with us. He arrived this one time and had to “relieve himself”… after all he was in his 70s. Pop was slight. Stooped over […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/4DC79B65-A70F-4A25-996A-1B197E921255.jpeg25001848Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-02-13 09:36:582017-02-13 09:36:58D’ya ever see a dead man fall out of a window?”
1 Corinthians 16:14 … Let all things you do be done in love… I was once told, “Did you know you cannot love a person?” “Oh? I replied, “Do you have some hedonistic view of the world? Love many people thus more pleasure? What are you driving at?” This is hard for me to explain, […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-01-31 19:40:592017-01-31 19:40:59Thoughts on Love…
We are so polarized today aren’t we. Politics, relationships, what to have for dinner tonight. The flood of information, its’ speed of delivery has made us all “experts”… “Google it” has made us knowledgeable quickly on just about any subject. See how smart we’ve become? How smart I am. All this for the most part […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-01-13 10:51:252017-01-13 10:51:25We’re Living in… Righteousness?
I often have breakfast at the Ok Cafe. Great breakfast place near my home. I was with a “friend”of mine (I have no clients, only friends). He flew in for the day to conduct his annual planning session with me. A smiling waitress named Tia served us. (read her name badge). Wish more places would […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2017-01-11 09:35:412017-01-11 09:35:41Everybody’s Got a Story…
… until the Tide goes out. This is a phrase I’ve used numerous times when deflection, confusion, untruths surface… abound. In a marriage, a business deal, with ourselves. Obama (sorry had to)… the blue dress… Pete Rose. Until your drain all the deception, fluff, get to real motives in the situation at hand…the “tide” will drown […]
For the past seventeen years I have written “The Christmas Letter” to my family. It started as one of those travelogues, those look at us kind of messages we got as inserts in Christmas cards. “Sam did this. Lisa did that. We traveled to…” Oh, you get them too? But the “Letter” has evolved over […]
Ebenezer Scrooge. Shows up every Christmas. Stooped over… grimaced face… angry, oh so angry. A life of greed, contempt, unhappiness. Even hate. He’s familiar to us.In truth we all have a little “Scrooge” in us, don’t we. I call this the burden of the sandbags. No, not the bags of sand you find building levies, […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2016-12-24 10:52:032016-12-24 10:52:03Sandbags for Christmas…
Vic Beasley was a consensus all American linebacker at Clemson University in 2013, 2014. He was a the first round draft pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2015. Expectations were sky high. His first year in the NFL? A disaster. Vic was vilified by the Atlanta press; the Falcons even considered letting him go at the […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2016-12-20 12:54:592016-12-20 12:54:59The Time your “Light’ went on …
Al Bailey’s my newspaper guy. For 26yrs he has delivered my morning paper. 5:15am every morning, double wrapped rain or shine. Has never missed! Al’s amazing. I have sent him a check every year in thanks. For his dedication to his passion. Making sure his many friiends get their morning paper for coffee, their daily […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2016-12-16 11:04:552016-12-16 11:04:55A Gift at Christmas… Al Bailey
Jack Bogle is the legendary pioneer and founder of Vanguard… one of the largest asset gathers in the world. One morning he was walking with a friend on a beach in Southampton… “Hey, Jack., look at that multimillion dollar mansion up there. How does it make you feel that the guy in that home makes […]
I have a friend. Call her, “——-, my Belle (old Beatles tune) for the sake of anonymity. I sent this to her this morning. I learn, grow so from our friendship. She doesn’t know this is so. I’ve known ——- for 17yrs. Talk to her once every three. Maybe. The connection between us? Instant. inspiring. […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2016-12-10 13:26:522026-01-12 15:07:36——–, and The Essence of Heart
A newborn… so precious. Equally as exhausting. Right? … for those new parents out there? A baby’s thought process? Very simple. Stimulus… response. Eat, sleep, poop. No real “mental” screening going on here… yet to be developed. As the child grows, so does the his/her “mental screen.” What do I mean? Simply? We all receive volumes […]
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The Boys… …my triplet 13 yr old grandsons in CT. Born a pound and a half each at birth. In the hospital for months before coming home. They’re special. A loving father, a beautiful mom, my daughter. The early days revealed that one, Willy, was not quite right… autistic. Sadness?… of course. The reality? He’s […]
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“It Was a Very Good Year” For those who can remember… the melodious tones of Frank Sinatra. A very good year. What was your best year? Days, hours, moments? Think back. Times in the “zone”, on a roll! Tears of joy… times you’ll never forget? Go ahead, go there… right now. I’ll join you. Watching […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2016-11-19 11:10:262016-11-19 11:10:26The Song… “It Was a Very Good Year.” Remember?
My last Post?… Speed is a problem. But paradoxically, the best way to grow personally, professionally? Is to Slow down. Fred Couples, the beloved pro golfer was once asked, “Fred, with that slow, rhythmic swing of yours, how do you hit the ball so far? Fred smiled, “Oh that’s easy. I slow my swing down […]
https://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.png00Bob Brickley bbrickleyhttps://mybrickleys.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brickblog-80x80.pngBob Brickley bbrickley2016-11-16 14:44:012016-11-16 14:44:01Speed Can Kill… But now Slow Down.
Welcome to “The Space Between the Notes”… Post # 1 In an airport… a restaurant… walking on a sidewalk. What do we see? People on their devices of course… Iphones, Ipads … oh yes and usually with no eye contact. Familiar? Of course. We all all talk about it. Albert Einstein said it best… “I […]
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Are you a procrastinator?
Emotional GrowthThis is Gary. He is an expert at putting things off. Gary is a procrastinator. A victim of his own behavior. Sure, procrastinators usually miss opportunities because they’re so overwhelmed by what they have not done. And too little focused on what they need to do. You see? Procrastination is opportunities’s natural assassin. Kills productivity; […]
… “and it came to us.“
Emotional GrowthYou have been asked by your boss to lead a team to tackle a huge project. Or you are moving. And you need to clean out the garage. Or a basement full of stuff that has accumulated over decades. The question with each of these is, “Where do I start! How do I get started!!” […]
The Ripple Effect
Emotional GrowthThrow a small rock into a placid lake. It makes a splash. But more importantly, it has a rippling effect on the entire lake. Such can be the effect words can have when communicating. They can radiate, have far more impact than we think. Did you ever notice how you can connect with someone, with […]
Your Mental Screen
Emotional GrowthDid you know that humans are the only animals on earth that can make a decision between stimulus and response? It is true. All other animals? Take a stimulus in one ear and speed it out the other. Instantly, without any thought. But we have what is known as a “mental screen” that allows us, […]
A Relationship Tip
RelationshipsRelationships can be complicated. This “Relationship Tip” is based on a simple premise. Any goal or gesture made without a a specific commitment or deadline is most times… meaningless. Before I go further, a little disclaimer. The picture above is of a man and a woman having coffee together. Maybe he’s tried to connect to […]
Christmas Letter … “Resilience”
PersonalResilience The art of the comeback Resilience… the word this year. Good one, don’t you think? Well, YEAH! Of course. My coach always told me, “There are no sufferings … only challenges” I won’t name them all. But we’ve really had our challenges this year haven’t we. There is much I could share with you […]
Positivity
Emotional Growth“As we go through life, there are no sufferings … Only challenges.” I read an article yesterday that inspired me to write this piece. As I describe all this. Please know I am relating this to illustrate the main point driving this piece. The impact of “positivity” … at the expense of full accuracy. Some […]
Guy
PersonalWell done my good and faithful servant Mathew 25:23 On a day when my emotions peak, my release is writing. This morning is one of those days. A dear friend, Guy …may be as I write this, moving on. Joining his Lord, our Lord … soon. The memories abound. I’ve known him for more than […]
A Hint of Jesus?
SpiritualityThe events of this past week have hit us all in different ways. I have a good friend who asked me yesterday, “Bob, I never knew who Charlie Kirk was. But when he was assassinated, I was impacted in ways I really don’t understand. Actually, brought me to tears.” This got me thinking. You know, […]
Duty As Joy …
ExperiencesI slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was duty. I worked—and behold, duty was joy. This beautiful quote from Victor Frankel’s book “Yes to Life” offers a revealing truth. Life isn’t “out there.” It’s right here. Now. Our “if only”s … “someday I’ll”s … Always reach for the […]
Strap In …
Emotional Growth, NewsJon Batiste, the renowned jazz musician, was featured on the CBS show “Sunday Morning” yesterday. His story was spellbinding. Surpassed only by the magic of his music. He closed a twenty minute interview saying simply, “Strap In.” These two words beaconed the depth of his challenges despite his great fame. The emotional wounds he and […]
Cousin Petey
PersonalJeffrey Stein, my cousin in law, just sent me a video (very Mary Tyler Moore- ish) that inspired the following. Petey knew way back she’d live her life “in the moment.” It’s at this moment I had to write this … I’ve got some amazing relatives. Accomplished, loving. And just fun. None of them is […]
Blue Ridge Grille … A Revisit
ExperiencesFour years ago I wrote a piece celebrating my favorite restaurant … anywhere. I’m revisiting, updating my experience here. “Why is this place always so full?” My guest yesterday for lunch asked me this question. When he asked me, I was moved to write this. One other thing happened too that I’ll share with you […]
Sisters
RelationshipsMy two daughters were meeting a few years ago in NY. Neither had any idea what the other would be wearing. They look like twins here … but they are not. They do have the same mother though. My wife. They dressed exactly alike this day. Only one example of how close they are. All […]
The “Peaker”
RelationshipsNot his nickname necessarily. Just what I call him. David Peak and I attended competing prep schools (his school competition for mine?? No) … in Philadelphia fifty plus years ago. Went to the same college. Never knew each other very well. But three years ago, we reconnected. “Mysteriously” For reasons we don’t understand to this […]
We’re Reaping What We’ve Sown …
SpiritualityMaybe you like me are exhausted hearing about Millennials and Generation Zs congregating in groups … world wide. Spreading what now is the widest infections of COVID 19 so far! Attempts to contain these “children” has proven unsuccessful if not impossible. Welcome to that ever quoted truism, “You reap what you sow.”All get a trophy […]
Light …
SpiritualityThe front page of the WSJ this morning featured a picture of the sun. Our source of daily light and warmth. The word “light” has come to me a lot lately. Feeling light. From the Bible, Let your light so shine before men … A recent allusion of a guiding ray of light from a […]
The “Gathering” …
SpiritualityOne key when coaching is what I call one’s “preferred future.” Questions like “Who am I?” … “Where am I going?” … “What am I called to do?” I believe you eventually become what you think about. So define it. Visualize it. Write it down. Get clear about where you’re headed in life. Why? Because, […]
Writing …
ExperiencesGeorge Andrews … a very dear friend, shared these messages with me back in April. I revisited them this morning and wanted to save them so I might reread them often. Sharing them here … Writing to Save the Day. Writing can be a true spiritual discipline. Writing can help us to concentrate, to get in […]
The “Thread” …
Emotional GrowthIt’s a month before my 75th birthday. A good friend of mine wanted to help me celebrate! While at lunch one day he asked me this. “You’ve coached literally hundreds of people over decades. Is there a common “thread” in each of them you can identify? A key to all your interactions with so many […]
Jerry
Relationships“It’s about time!” … hear this a lot. But this phrase applies particularly well here. I just finished reading an article written in “The Trinity Reporter,” a college publication. Wanted to catch the spirit … my emotions at this moment. The article honored a friend of mine for his lifetime of commitment to a cause, […]
Don’t Zoom … Touch
Emotional GrowthThere’s been quite a lot of commotion these days about the emergence of “Zoom.” A fabulous new technology actually. At the beginning of this year? Zoom sessions totaled about 10M per month. Today meetings, events, cocktail hours. Wow! We never have to go to the office any more. Maybe schooling on line can really be […]
My 75th Birthday …
ExperiencesI’ve always known that writing memorializes experiences, people, events that define a life lived. Joys, sorrows, victories, defeats. All the things that make up the human condition. All God sends our way.Yesterday I had an experience I hope my grandchildren … actually all my family members will read … think about.I will be 75 on […]
Sentimentality
Emotional GrowthAn unexpected emotional aspect of this virus mess for me? A deepened feeling of sentimentality. Even a little check in with my mortality. People today say we’re realizing those things in life that are “really important, that matter” For me, remembering past experiences, relationships, joys are among my “really importants.” Yesterday I was looking at […]
Relationship … “empty calories”
RelationshipsZoom!! “Why don’t we just do a Zoom call.” Today? Maybe 3, 4 times a day … I’m asked to have a Zoom call. With a coachie, a group, a friend for “cocktail hour.”Hey! Now we don’t have to drive anymore to see one another. Worry about that reserving for lunch. “Is there room at […]
The Best Medicine …
Emotional GrowthYou get out of bed … you brush your teeth … you eat your breakfast … you go to work … you come home … you eat dinner … you go to bed. Then you do it … all over again. Or at least you used to. Remember that TV Ad? All the things we […]
Why I write …
Spirituality“Cuneiform” is an ancient writing system that was first used around 3400 BC. Said to be the very first writings. Writing. An ancient art. Simply timeless. This blog. Close to 180 posts so far. Not without effort. But in many ways so natural, therapeutic. And I find so very revealing as well. A dear friend recently, […]
“I Still Believe”
SpiritualityNancy and I watched a movie the other day. “I Still Believe” won’t win Academy Awards. But that afternoon it was surely worthy of one. A box of used Kleenex was piled between us after viewing. A true, inspiring, and yet very sad story about a rising nineteen year old country music star, his loving girlfriend, […]
Jack Rogers
RelationshipsI was privileged to attend one of the finest prep schools in the country … The William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. My loyalty to the school is strong … real strong. Since graduating in 1963 I’ve traveled from CT and Atlanta over many years to join in special events at the school. You know, […]
“Selfishness”
Emotional GrowthA revered friend of mine passed away last year. Most of us fear dying or getting seriously illness. He knew he was going to die. His cancer was terminal. I flew to Philadelphia last summer a few months before he died to essentially say goodbye. He was one of the most admired people in the […]
“Spacing” Between the Notes
SpiritualityHave you ever tried to slide your way down a steep grassy hill in sneakers? Front leg in front. Slipping … inching your way down? Losing your grip. Falling even? I have. And this morning? That’s how this all feels. Like a never ending slippery traverse down a seemingly endless, steep grassy hill. My thoughts […]
The Pandemic … and Me
Emotional GrowthEvents of the past two weeks, the last two days really. Have certainly been “times that try men’s souls.” Shaken my foundation. The pace of change for me has never been this breathtaking. Not only am I not alone … all on earth are experiencing the same emotions, fueled by so much fear and anxiety.I […]
Small Gestures …
Emotional GrowthI came across a very interesting person recently. Can’t remember his name … just his story. He was a writer. A good writer. Ambitious. Wrote for years … (kinda like me). I related to him. Big ideas. “I’ll change the world with my writings!” He got great responses to his writings. “But I can’t break […]
My Loving Sister …
RelationshipsShe’s my little sister. “Chrost” is our loving nickname for her. She was born five years behind me. She’ll never be as old as me … but she’ll always be very special to me. Seventy … 70 great years with Christine. Fun times, some challenging ones too. But above all, we love each other … […]
lingua franca …
Relationshipslingua franca … A bridge language, communication … linkage between two people connecting them. How people speaking two different languages can connect with one another. Without words. lingua franca … there are no words. (Admittedly I take some liberty with my use of lingua franca here.) But it helps me make my point. Lynda Denworth wrote […]
The Fahey Cup
RelationshipsThe following is a revision … a reprint of a post from 2017. The “Fahey Cup” lives on. We will gather to celebrate our 20th “Fahey” next year at Essex County Club … The first “Fahey Cup” took place in 2001 at Essex County Club outside Boston. A group of my fraternity brothers from our […]
A Friend …
RelationshipsA few early morning musings today. These always surprise me. Not only because they show up. But more because they are so vivid … compelling. Anyway. This morning? A friend of one comes to mind. I’ll not identify him here, because he probably would prefer I not. One of the reasons I write about him. […]
“Bobby” …
ExperiencesBobby Cox … “Bobby” as he is known here in Atlanta and throughout all of Major League Baseball was the legendary manager of the Atlanta Braves for an astounding twenty seven years. Under his leadership the Braves won fourteen consecutive National League Division championships. A feat equally as astounding. Bobby was known as the “players […]
The Spirit …
SpiritualityI wrote recently about the death of my Aunt Sis. On reflection I realized something I had to write about this morning. I’ve been out of Philadelphia, my family home, for decades. Over thirty years really. When I was in Philly I really never saw my Aunt often. You know. Thanksgivings, Christmases mostly. Only saw […]
“Wonder” at Christmas …
SpiritualityFor the past twenty one years I’ve written a Christmas Letter to my family … in recent years more written for my grandchildren. For the past four years, I’ve picked a word … just one as a theme, a focus of my letter. Here’s this year’s version … Confidence … Passion … Determination … Faith […]
Private School
ExperiencesI went to an all boys school. A private school. The William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. My mom and dad weren’t wealthy. So there were some sacrifices made to send me there. My father was insistent that I attend his alma mater. I would later learn there were many other fathers, alumni … who […]
“Tips” for Christmas …
ExperiencesA repeat of a Holiday message originally written and posted in December of 2016. Merry Christmas to all … Al Bailey’s my newspaper guy. For 26yrs he has delivered my morning paper. 5:15am every morning, double wrapped rain or shine. Has never missed! Al’s amazing. I have sent him a check every year in thanks. For his […]
“We all comin’ home”
SpiritualityNancy and I watched a movie last night. In it a beautiful lady played by Rene Zellweger experienced a saddening death after a long bout with cancer. Maudlin … filled with despair. I’ve had occasional sparks of thought in recent months about my own mortality. Natural being in my mid seventies. You know. How do […]
Aunt Sis
RelationshipsMy Aunt Sis died yesterday. Sadness for sure. But at 90? Good for her. Wow! Did the memories flood in as I talked on my phone … to my brother, my sister, my cousins. The word that springs to my mind as I remember her … “elegant” Was she ever. Never really knew her well […]
Thanksgiving 2019
Emotional GrowthA dear friend of mine sent this to me last night. At this special time, please take a little time … to embrace the “space between the notes” and give thanks … enjoy. Gratitude, appreciation and thankfulness have been on my mind, lately. These are ingredients in the soup of kindness. A simple introduction to […]
The Parable of the Spoons
SpiritualityIn a ancient times there lived two groups of people who lived in villages adjacent to one another. Times were trying. Survival … existence was what most of life was about. Food and water were scarce. They all lived in tattered clothing. Life was just very challenging One day all the villagers were summoned by a […]
Reciprocity
RelationshipsBack and forth … back and forth … back and forth. Reciprocal things. A metronome. A swaying branch on a tree. A swing. An unforgettable, repeating melody. So many things move slowly back and forth, so rhythmically show beauty. The symmetry in life. Call it reciprocity. Nancy and I had dinner with two dear friends […]
A Moment …
SpiritualityFriends ask every once in awhile, “Are you Ok?” Think I’m nuts when I write about some things. This may be one. But just me. Here goes… Sometimes a quick flash in time … a moment can hit me. Never defining. Just a bright sliver of experience. A glimpse when something seemingly very small … […]
“The Power of Love“
SpiritualityI’m an Episcopalian. Don’t even know why I opened this piece with this sentence. It was top of mind, I guess. My thoughts a flowing. Maybe because I just finished reading the first thirty six pages of a small book entitled, “The Power of Love.” A great guy … dear friend sent it to me […]
Gabe
RelationshipsOne of the challenges one faces later in life is the passing of friends … maybe especially, old friends. Because with old friends the history is so rich. The memories rush to mind. Tears well as I recount them in most cases. Not just for this person. But because it also brings your own mortality […]
Doing … Being
Emotional GrowthHow does a shark die? It stops swimming. Hard to think we resemble this gruesome creature. But in a way many of us do. We are always “swimming.” A daily refrain I hear. “Oh, I’m just so busy!” Don’t get me wrong. Much of busy is good. Necessary! We just have to get things done. But […]
Annie …
RelationshipsI often see things that converge together. It happened again this morning when I watched a “Talk Talk” on the subject of dying. There, a man with only one limb left on his body, gave a stunning eighteen minute talk. His speech lovingly dealt with death as “soft” … even “celebratory.” Deflecting much of the […]
North Wayne Avenue …
ExperiencesA distant remembrance of the guys above flashed to my mind this morning. Memories from my childhood. Nugget and Dusty at the home of my grandparents here. On North Wayne Ave in Wayne, Pa. A grand Spanish styled place. Long drive way. Circular at the end. As you approached the front of the house, a double […]
Relationships
RelationshipsYesterday I read an eighty year study at Harvard on “happiness.” Involved a couple of thousand men, women. What makes one happy? Riches … accomplishments … pride … status. All the things we strive for. Are these really key to what makes us truly happy? Don’t think so. The key? According to Harvard. Nourishing, lasting […]
Feeling …
Emotional GrowthCan there be a more special moment than watching my granddaughter spontaneously show her “feelings” while on the ocean …Many years ago my coach told me, “Bob you don’t really feel.” Huh? I can cry at a Ford commercial. “No” he said. “You, most of us get emotional. We don’t really feel. Feelings and emotions […]
When Coaching Ends …
Emotional GrowthI always have a hard time when a coaching relationship comes to an end. As most do. Some only last a month. I have two that have lasted over fifteen years. A coaching process of mine that spanned almost three years ended last week. Let me tell you a little about it. One day while coaching […]
Lubrication …
Emotional GrowthAs a Life Coach I’m often asked, “Coaching. What’s that mean? What do you do?” Frankly, I’ve always found it hard to describe. Non factual, behavior based … life coaching is more art than science. It requires listening deeply. Trying to explore the parts of ones human psyche, emotions that define the issues to be […]
Pick Your Spots …
Emotional GrowthI had lunch with a good friend of mine yesterday. Good because we are extremely open … vulnerable with one another. Granted we’re both right brainers … emotional, instinctive, very people oriented. We soar from topic to topic. Share perspectives on mutual challenges. Our wins and our losses. Laugh a lot. You get it. We […]
LLWS
ExperiencesIt’s a rare gift when you get an hour, even a day with your grandchildren. But when you have three days? Well … just a blast! A lot of magic has to follow … it did. Such was the case this past weekend. At the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. With my three […]
Wisdom
Emotional GrowthWhat is wisdom? While the definition my be elusive, we usually know it when we see it. Don’t we. Typically, my “older” friends come across as wise. But why? As I thought about it? Experience may be the primary ingredient in wisdom. Seeing things in the context of where one has been, seen … experienced. […]
It’s Not What’s Wrong … It’s What Happened
Emotional Growth“What’s wrong with me?” This is the question I’ve been asked most over the years I’ve been coaching. “What’s wrong with me?” “I have these issues I need to address. Why? Why me?” So, what’s wrong? Really nothing. What you discover about you, the issues we all face? All are grounded in our life experiences. […]
Success is Never Final …
Emotional Growth… failure is never fatal. I learned the other day that if a shark stops swimming … it will die. It needs to keep swimming to keep oxygen rich water flowing through it’s gills. Of course without rest and sleep … we would all expire. But the shark’s dilemma does provide a message to heed. We can […]
Living … Laughing … Loving
Emotional GrowthNancy and have a number of memorable vacation spots. While visiting our favorite four years ago … Harbor Island in the Bahamas we came upon a small sign we have hanging in our kitchen. Simply inscribed … “Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much” Coincidently I read this message early this morning.I spent the last two […]
The “Eyes” vs The “I”s … and The “Eyes” Have It
Emotional GrowthAs the common saying goes, “There’s no “I” in team.” No I agree. But great teamwork requires many “eyes” to be successful doesn’t it. Consider a slam dunk when eye contact from the passer sends the dunker to the rim. Consider a quarterback who eyes his receiver indicating what pattern he should run.Consider the eye […]
Right – Left … Right – Left
Emotional GrowthNot the marching chant. Rather … this. Nancy and I have a couple we see often. Conversation always very balanced, back and forth. Over dinner mostly. Really fun.I’ve noticed something interesting. Our chatter usually moves to a pattern as these evenings unfold.He ends up talking to Nancy. I end up talking to his wife. Oh […]
“It was only then I knew … “
Emotional GrowthAs a coach I’m absolute with all I work with … you must reach outside yourself with your aspirations, desires, define your end game. Life with purpose is as essential as the air we breathe. Gives us a vibrancy that colors the journey.This comes naturally with some. Less so with others. Infrequently, purpose escapes a […]
One More Time … Reaching Out in Love
Emotional GrowthI may be accused of covering the same theme here … over and over. But I don’t think there is anything that changes us more than how we see others. Extend ourselves to others. And receive so much in return. Even while slow aging. Makes us brighter. More open and inviting. So … repetitious or […]
Bars, Planes and Barbershops …
RelationshipsWhat could I possibly mean by these? Well, I’ve decided to act, behave differently every time I sit at a bar, fly in a plane or get my haircut. What do all these experiences have in common? People. Usually to my right. My left. People I have never met.Previously, I chose never to engage with […]
Pride
Emotional GrowthI interviewed a young man yesterday for a client here in Atlanta.At the end of all interviews I conduct, I tell the candidate, “Now I’m your consultant. Ask me anything you’d like to. About me, you, the opportunity before you.”He replied, “Do you think I’m the type of person who could succeed here?”To which I […]
Vulnerability …
Emotional Growth“Vulnerability and trust are kissin’ cousins.”I’ve shared this thought with those I coach for years. Putting yourself at risk … emotional risk. Being open. The most difficult risk to take in life? … the emotional risk.Showing others true challenging emotions. Need, hurt, sadness, failure. Most react with “Don’t do it.” Right? Whatever the feeling. Oh, […]
Rejection …
Emotional GrowthWork with my coach Chris revealed years ago that my Achilles heal has always been my feeling of rejection. Experienced as early as kindergarten, my eyes were severely crossed. Blindness in my left eye at birth was the cause.We know how children can be unintentionally cruel. My grammar school friends unknowingly were. I was pointed […]
The Bird’s Nest
RelationshipsA friendship. One seeded in college. But it really sprouted five years ago. With a Diet Coke in Wilmington. DE, A three hour conversation and we bonded. But as we have since shared … a bit unexpectedly. We all know those friends who kindly offer, “We have to get together sometime.” … “I’ll call you next […]
Monty
RelationshipsI hope you’ve had a friend or two you see infrequently, but always reconnect with instantly. Connection rich in history, emotionally resonant. Dave Montgomery was this kind of friend to me. Monty died yesterday. I’ll not try to address his incredible resume here. Rather I’d like to share a few stories as so many others […]
The “Z”s
RelationshipsNo … I’m not referring to 💤💤s … as in sleep. Rather I’m remembering the gathering of dear relatives of mine, I’ll call them “Zs” … last Sunday in Doylestown, PA. The occasion? The Easter Sunday christening of the latest addition to our clan, four month old Ezra.“Z”s traveled from San Francisco, Charlotte NC, Atlanta […]
Claude …
RelationshipsThis was written in May 2017 … I am posting it today in celebration of his 92nd birthday … I was new to Atlanta… loved my golf, maybe the friendships the game gifted me above all. Then there was that day in the summer of 1990 when that Series 7 BMW roared up my driveway […]
Winning … and You
Emotional GrowthThe Tiger Woods story will be told for years to come. A legendary athletic feat that stunningly evolved before our eyes last week. Maybe never to have a parallel in sports … life even. Not to overdramatize, but the dynamics of Tiger’s feat for me go so beyond golf itself. Moreover Sunday’s scene on the […]
My “Runaway” Friends …
Relationships“Runaway” friends? What could I possibly mean by that?! Friends I’ve fought with … who left me?! Maybe because I was mean to them or maybe just because I needed to change deodorant? No … let me explain.Nancy and I just came home from a week at Runaway Hill on Harbour Island. Our refuge, our love […]
Camille
RelationshipsThe following is a piece I sent to Nancy’s sister. We’ve shared laughs over the years about those we’ve known who simply always take themselves way too seriously … like this gal here. Camille. We’re at Runaway Hill on Harbor Island. Having dinner at the Landings. A restaurant here owned by a loan shark. Why? So […]
Chris
Relationships“The Space Between the Notes” is now three years old. Over 100 posts. Thanks to you who have taken time to visit. Allowing me to share intimate thoughts and experiences that I’ve felt were worth sharing. Again my greatest purpose here? To leave these writings for my precious grandchildren. But then my mentor, guru told […]
Every Saturday?! Really?!
ExperiencesSettindown
Scotty
RelationshipsI read a biblical message every morning. Yesterday the passage entitled, The Power of Silence. Just sitting, doing nothing and allowing a spiritual “message” or two float into your mind. I had an email exchange yesterday with my nephew Scotty. Someone I see infrequently. Today during my “quiet time” he came to me. Thus this. […]
It’s All About Speed …
Emotional GrowthI watch TV commentary a lot. I go to Starbucks most mornings. I talk to millennials. One thing I’ve noticed that these experiences have in common? Everything runs at high speed today.Technology has been defining. Of our culture, all the increased productivity we benefit from. Good! But the speed of life? Most times I make […]
Live Your Life …
Emotional GrowthIf your like me, the news, … the plethora of TV pundits is kinda like a bathroom sink that won’t drain. A worthless pool of stuff in need of a good shot of Drano to clean the sludge out. I’m a loyal American. But too many times I feel like I’ve got hair like the […]
Authenticity …
Emotional GrowthMy father was an unforgettable character. A great athlete, wonderful provider. And even though he rarely told me so … very proud of me. He taught me many lessons. None more important than this one. “Be yourself.” This piece of advice has always resonated with me. I’ve utilize a behavioral diagnostic in my coaching practice […]
Faith for Teens
SpiritualityI’ve mentioned I have five grandchildren. They’re always a wonder, such a joy. A fleeting but constant thought I’ve had? How can I help them learn about Faith. It may be universally accepted that our world today is a very challenging space to navigate. Fortunately, those of us who’ve lived through other cycles of societal […]
Weddings and Funerals …
Emotional GrowthLife is finite. This comes front and center for me at weddings and funerals. The beginnings of the new, and all the promise ahead. The endings honoring lives well lived.As glorious and saddening as both events are? For me? There is one inescapable truth … fulfillment of God’s promise. His Love may never be more […]
Taylor
RelationshipsIf you’ve read any of this Blog you know I was blessed at age 51 to “uncover” my calling in life … helping people grow. I was fortunate three years ago to meet this 33yr old “kid” from Jackson, MS. “Kid” because I hope Taylor in many ways will always be, yea, a “kid.” Taylor’s a […]
What a great time,
Experiences“What a great time,”A simple phrase Nancy and I share when being with another couple. Hard to find two people you both like. Sound familiar. Usually like either lemon or lemonade. But you know what’s usually key to having a good time with two others? A mutual exchange of ideas, questions, interest in learning about […]
Are You a Martyr? …
Emotional GrowthWhat is a martyr? By definition … … Seeking out suffering or persecution because it either feeds a psychological need or a desire to avoid responsibility … some call this Victim Complex In all my years coaching I’ve faced challenging human conditions of all varieties. Confusion … depression … recklessness. All of them. Good people seeking […]
Culture Trumps Strategy … Every Time
Emotional GrowthAfter 50+ years of building, working with teams large and small, I have learned one indisputable thing. Culture trumps strategy … every time. Early in 2017 I had lunch with a guy a client of mine wanted me to check out for him. He arrived in a three piece suit, twenty minutes late … loquacious. […]
I Owe It All to …
SpiritualityNick Foles. Hardly a household name. That’s until his heroic performance in last year’s Super Bowl. Subbing for injured quarterback Carson Wentz … not having thrown a pass in a game all season, Foles lead his underdog Philadelphia Eagles to an inspiring victory over the perennial champion New England Patriots. Devastating my 12 yr old […]
He Never Hit Back …
Emotional GrowthOur President. Trump, “Hits Back!” Well, he does. But what if he didn’t? At least not quite as much. Let me share a story that may help address this question. Legendary hockey player Mark Messier starred in the NHL for a quarter of a century from 1974-2009. During his inspiring career he was much admired. […]
Wisdom in the 90s
Emotional GrowthThe death of George H.W. Bush this passed weekend hit me unexpectedly hard. As I meditated this morning, I realized why. Bush’s oldest son Neil said, yesterday, “My father led with love.” In fact his last words were in response to his son George’s last words to his father, “Dad, l love you. I will see you […]
Courage … Changes Everything
Emotional GrowthThe status quo dies hard. After all it has one of the most powerful forces on the planet as its ally. Fear. Changing things disrupting status quo can be scary.Fear is … the enemy of change… stealer of ambition… the champion of the half measure, the checked swing, the almost-there. It softens the hard stance, […]
The Gift of Listening …
Emotional GrowthIn the movie the “Dream Girls” Beyoncé performs the song “Listen.” “With a song in my heart…🎶” she sings as she laments about a boyfriend who simply won’t listen to her. I learned a long time ago that I never learn anything while I’m talking. Lunch with a good friend last Monday confirmed this to […]
Coasters …
Emotional GrowthCoasting …“I’m a success.” … “I’ve retired” … “I’ve never been happier.”All statements I’ve heard from others. “I can just sit back and enjoy the ride.”Not so fast.There’s only one way to coast…and that’s downhill.Coasters. That’s what I call them. Those who’ve done it all. Look at me-ers. Better than most.If you run into a […]
The Value of Friends …
RelationshipsNEVER FORGET YOUR FRIENDS A newlywed young man was sitting on the porch on a humid day, sipping ice tea with his father. As he talked about adult life, marriage, responsibilities, and obligations, the father thoughtfully stirred the ice cubes in his glass and cast a clear, sober look on his Son. “Never forget […]
Doing … Being
SpiritualityI got a call last week from a former fifty eight year old client of mine. Wanted to get together for lunch. “I just wanted to thank you for helping me change, see my business in a way that has been key to all the success I’ve accomplished.” I thanked him. Couldn’t really recall what […]
Heaven and Love
SpiritualityMy image of heaven has always been a place up in the sky … a journey through a tunnel of bright light. No fear. Ascension of the spirit. Life’s final passage. Many have lucidly described their life-death experiences.My coach and I were discussing heaven yesterday. The journey into eternity… embraced, enveloped in all consuming Love. […]
“Surprising” Maine …
ExperiencesWe all have friendships. Those you have had for awhile. New ones. Maybe you’ve moved, retired somewhere or just met some friends along the way. Friends are key. Children move on to build their own lives and families. Close relatives pass away. But your friends are and will be there always … remain a central part […]
The Essence of Heart …
Emotional GrowthREPEATED FROM A PREVIOUS BLOG POST …The beautiful passage below is offered with respect but intention … to all my fellow users of technology. All that time you spend on your devices will rob you of the essence of this beautiful missive. May block you from the blessings of relationship, intimacy, even Love. You may […]
The Opposite of Love…
Emotional GrowthIf you asked someone, “What’s the opposite of Love?” The normal reply, “Hate”. I ask this question frequently, and I get the same reply, “Hate”. Richard Jampolsky wrote a book in 1979 entitled, Love is Letting Go of Fear… Groundbreaking then… even more so today. You can buy it on Amazon. In fact what I’ve learned? […]
BB
RelationshipsWe met on an airplane in 1989 traveling to an industry convention. “Hi, I’m BB Brown. Where’d you get those glasses?” (They were metal… horn rim. So like BB to notice.)“Where’re ya from?” (BB is always more interested in you than trying to be interesting himself). Turned out we were in both in the life insurance business. We compared […]
Abundant vs Scarcity Mentality
Emotional GrowthLast Saturday evening I had the honor of attending the 50th anniversary celebration of my long term consulting client, The Benefit Company. I was asked to say a few words, reflect on my twenty plus years serving this great team of professionals.I won’t go into the specifics of this wonderful event. Just let me say […]
“Eighth Grade”
Emotional GrowthI believe we all get messages… I call them “whispers.” Instinctive flashes of thought that most of us ignore, rarely act upon. Call them messages from God. Or maybe they come from spirits that are in our midst. Some think this as well. Or maybe they’re just there … to heed or not.Whatever the source, […]
Cobblestone Romance…
ExperiencesItaly… 2018. Check out the impassioned words of our exceptional guide Mario Marcosano as Nancy and I journeyed through southern Italy last week …“Ladies and gentlemen. I couldn’t help but notice Bob and Nancy holding hands yesterday as they walked together. So romantic. Such a beautiful, loving couple.”Well, we do love each other. Forty seven years […]
This 4th… Let Your Freedom Ring
ExperiencesIndependence Day. Martin Luther King said, “From every mountainside… Let freedom ring.” Indeed our uniqueness is rooted in this very concept. Let freedom ring!I would ask you on this day to consider this. What might freedom suggest, offer each of us in addition of Dr. King’s declaration.Think about the Fourth of July as the day […]
Never Apologize for Your Tears…
Emotional GrowthAmerica has lost a hero. That term may be overused. But Charles Krauthammer was certainly a hero. He died last week. Charles was the essence of integrity, authenticity and grace. Fox News aired a special last Friday. A rich, vibrant recounting of Krauthammer’s life. Told mostly by him in a reserved, erudite manner. Shared openly […]
“Leaving” Someone…
Emotional GrowthWe all at one time have had a challenging, uncomfortable, even toxic relationship with another person. A colleague at work. An old, difficult friend. Or yes, even a relative or spouse. You tough it out because you decide to. Or in some cases… you persevere because you feel you have to. Or just because your “supposed” […]
The “Mangy Dog” Chronicles
ExperiencesMay 21-25, 2018 Have you ever had one of those magical weeks? You know six or seven days in a row when everything just clicks? I have. My last one was just last week. Where do I start … A warning. This post may resemble War and Peace before it’s done, so buckle up. Capturing, […]
We All Have Mental Issues… Here’s Why
Emotional GrowthThe New York best seller, I’ve Been Thinkin’ by Maria Shriver is a thought provoking collection of short chapters detailing the lessons she has learned during her life filled with challenges, loss and unusual heartache. A father who she adored dying of Alzheimers, Arnold, and of course the tragedy of being a member of the […]
Take Responsibility…
Emotional GrowthChris Andersonn has coached me for over 20 years. He lives in California. I live in Georgia. We talk for an hour… hour and a half… every 10 days or so. By phone. We’ve met only twice and yet he is one of the most important people in my life.M. Scott Peck wrote a book […]
Darren
RelationshipsI many ways I live an enchanted life. Enough cash, a great family, lots of golf… the amazing people I coach. This week Nancy and I are on Harbor Island. An idyllic two mile square paradise off Eleuthera in the Bahamas. We’ve been coming here the last five years. Will continue to come here for […]
When You’re Down …
Emotional GrowthWe all get down at times. Some of us (actually quite a few of us) have suffered from depression or other form of mental illness. But I’ve discovered some interesting things about being down… depressed. Examples: a loss… a game, a job, a relationship. These are times to be clear. These are times when you […]
Transitions >>>
Emotional GrowthLife is about movement… moving is essential to health, well being. We live in “Now” and “Next.” All we have in a given moment. But transition. Moving from one phase of life to another is always challenging. From college to that first job; marriage; divorce, … “retirement” (a myth as I’ve offered before). Many more.In […]
Note to My Audience…
ExperiencesTechnology rears it’s ugly head periodically. My Blog does not escape this reality. Those interested will notice a change in the format of the Blog. The “Theme” (whatever that means) supporting the Blog is now “unsupported.” I had to change the “theme” or my Blog would disappear.So the format has changed. Not for the better in […]
The Blue Ridge Grille
ExperiencesIf coffee beans in Brazil are sold for $.20 pound … but a cup of coffee on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy costs $20 …What’s the difference? … The Total Experience.You could dine in Atlanta every day for a year… and never visit the same restaurant twice. Never.I have my favorites. We are blessed […]
Words Matter… But
Emotional GrowthHorror … Evil … Catastrophe … all words that knife through the hearts of us all. Today another incident in Florida brings these words front and center as we process the unspeakable.But I have always wondered. Words matter… But. What’s the action to follow, serve as urgent response to prevent future repeats of the evil […]
A Million Reasons …
SpiritualityNick Foles, the MVP of this year’s unique Super Bowl following the Eagles victory over the Patriots said this. “I never would be here if it hadn’t been for a million failures.” Lady Gaga composed the song “A Million Reasons”. The chorus goes something like this. “… there are a million reasons to leave. But […]
Resonance
SpiritualityHave you ever had someone walk in a room and suddenly there’s silence? Have you ever conversed with someone and found them absolutely spellbinding? I have. A lot of this has to do with the “resonance” people like these possess. A personal magnetism. Now what do I mean by “resonance”? It really has to do […]
You’re 3x5s …
ExperiencesIt’s taken me some time to learn that coaching is far more art than science. Hard to mechanize, structure. Three I coach currently have been with me for 8, 9 and 10 years respectively. Longer than the pursuit of any graduate or doctoral degree. You would think we’d run out of material… stuff to work […]
Power Quotes from 2017 … for ‘18
Emotional GrowthI read a lot. Four hundred books on the shelves in my office tell me so. I am always inspired when true words of wisdom, quotes fuel my passion for coaching people… helping them grow. Here are my Top Five from 2017. Motives for new beginnings as a new year unfolds… “As a man thinketh […]
New Year? … New Beginnings
Emotional GrowthGratitude, expectation, resolution. A time to begin anew… birth new ways if living, explore new possibilities. So vivid with hope. And always faced as well with the challenges to succeed.This is where I start with the new year. Looking through the “Rearview Mirror” to grasp what I learned last year. Then turning my gaze to […]
The Not So Odd Couple…
RelationshipsGary and me. The Not So Odd Couple? … not odd at all. We’ve known each other for a long time. But have really gotten closer in recent years. Both of us excelled in the insurance industry. I’m the “Oscar” … Gary’s the “Felix” in this Not So Odd Couple. Unique.You see I had a […]
The Christmas Letter
SpiritualityFor the last 19 years I have written a letter at Christmas to my family. I share the 19th with you here.FAITHFaith is trust, assurance and confidence in God.Living faith is shown by service and obedience to God. I write this year’s Christmas letter to my amazing grandchildren… We talked about “edge” a lot this year, […]
“And did you get all you wanted from this life, even so?”
Emotional GrowthThis beautiful quote from a poem by Robert Frost is thought provoking. The symmetry of the verse challenges you and comforts you at the same time. There are two distinct parts …First, “And did you get all you wanted from this life” … ? The second? “… even so?” I’ve spent some wonderful years accomplishing much. […]
Weaknesses the Secret to Success
Emotional GrowthIf the ax is dull and one does not sharpen the edge,then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.Ecclesiastes 10:10I’ve always been a devotee of the great Stephen Covey. He authored the life changing book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective” People.I taught his course for two years. Covey’s seventh habit was “Sharpen […]
A Great Contradiction…
SpiritualityI have long been deeply concerned. No actually shocked at the erosion of our value system as a free and prosperous people today. Values and principles that have underpinned so much of who we are as a country, a civilized nation for centuries. Respect, morality, service, integrity all seem to be disappearing as our culture […]
Out Into the Ether …
SpiritualitySimply, this means. Something that disappears into nothing. I’ve attended hundreds of meetings in my life. Business, personal. When someone is asked why they hate meetings? “BECAUSE THEY’RE SO BORING !!” There are things in common with meetings that have always confounded me.Most meetings are well intentioned. Not all for sure. Too many agenda-less. Most […]
My Wonderful Week …
ExperiencesCatharsis … providing psychological relief through theopen expression of strong emotions. This past week was a unique one for me. Cathartic… unexpectedly. It’s true… cathartic. What happened.I’ve mentioned in a previous posting my long time special gathering every year with twenty three of my fraternity brothers to golf, dine, share. For three days. We have […]
The Deeper You’ve Been …
Spirituality… the higher you go. This is actually something most of you may already know. What do I mean by “Deeper?” Abraham Lincoln, Oprah Winfrey, Bobby Darin. (Who’s Bobby Darin? Google him). How’s that for diversity. All came from lowly backgrounds … In Oprah’s case? Poverty stricken. You’ve heard the stories. One room home for […]
Don’t Fear Alone Time …
Emotional GrowthI’ve become very nocturnal. Love the very early part of a new day. In bed early. Get 7 hours of sleep every night. Clock just awakes me at 2-2:30am. Always alive with anticipation of the stuff ahead. Because my days are full… I need time to settle, plan, imagine what’s ahead. A lot of this […]
Character… Unveils
SpiritualityWe all like to believe we’re a “person of character.” Right? I’m not one to cite others failings, flaws. Like you I hope I give others the benefit of the doubt when they stumble, fall. “Let him who is without sin, cast the first stone.”Ok. But Hillary Clinton’s book outing this week left me breathless. […]
The Emotional Risk …
Emotional GrowthI’ve coached some big guys in my day. CEOS… entrepreneurs.They have gotten where they are by taking risks. Usually well calculated, but not always. Financially, career wise. The bets they’ve taken and won. That’s what’s made them “big.”But I’ve discovered that with all the trappings. The cars, homes, all the $$. You get it. The […]
Houston? We have an Opportunity…
Emotional GrowthThe following with some revision on my part was sent to me this week by a friend. Beautiful. Inspired by tragedy… immersed in love. As the floods subside. As the cameras leave. We, those not effected by this devastation, will return to our normal lives. Many say, “This great outpouring won’t last long.” Hurricane Sandy… […]
Failure? Phooey!!
Emotional GrowthI truly love the great people I have the privilege of coaching. They all want to grow. They’re “seekers.” Curious about themselves, others. Success to them? Varies with each one.Failures. They have had their bunch. Me too. Regrets… recent stumbles. Childhood memories hard to erase. These are real mental “wounds.” Just as hurtful as any […]
“What a Coincidence!”
Emotional GrowthI hear this a lot. You too? “Oh, what a coincidence!” You know the person you see in the grocery store you were just thinking about. That phone call that came from someone you haven’t heard from in years. What coincidences! I got a call from an old acquaintance earlier this week who I really […]
Our Children…
Emotional GrowthI am so grateful. Start all my mornings… up around 2:30-3. In bed last night at 7:30. Do the math before gasping. Previewed the new Mercedes Benz Stadium yesterday. New home of my Atlanta Falcons. Incredible. But draining too.In the sack early after another enchanting day.You see my life experiences today are good… bad, actually […]
The Crystal Vase…
Emotional GrowthIf you’ve read a number of the posts in this Blog, you’ve gathered that relationships… love of people is my passion. I’m asked, “Where did you learn all this stuff?” In truth I am “home schooled.” Three hundred books in my office attest to the fact this is so. Lots of studying with mentors. All […]
Windshield and Rearview Mirror…
Emotional GrowthThe mind can be a tricky. We look forward and we look backward. What’s in front of us. What’s in back of us. Both are important.Consider this though. All we can control, can address are NOW and NEXT. The current moment and our next action… what we decide… NOW, a decision in the moment then […]
Pleasing… Rarely Works
Emotional GrowthAs a coach, I deal with the full range of human emotions… challenging situations we all find ourselves in at different times.“He does this.” “She does that.” “Why is this happening to me?”Always emotionally annoying. If not addressed, gradually intense. People don’t come to me until the problem is acute. In most cases the person […]
“Living” Insurance …
ExperiencesI have been in and around the life insurance industry for decades… almost five. A noble calling in my experience. A career in life insurance despite the “one level above a car salesman” jokes is dedicated to a fundamental concept. Protecting human life value. Their are unprofessionals in the business… like most businesses. Relationships at […]
Humility…
Emotional GrowthA great man reaches highest whenhe reaches down to help another man up. I grew up on the Main Line in Philadelphia. Don’t say “Oh!” like most do. I wasn’t a “Main Liner”… Blue blood. I can remember this refined attractive elderly lady… the fifth time I met her. Went something like this. My Mom, […]
Life and the Staircase…
Emotional GrowthI chose this illustration for my Blog to depict the path or journey I find so many on today. The stairs. Firm and clear at the bottom. This is now. Driven to grow, climb based on decisions you’ve made along the way. About your life. About your path. About where you are going.But take heed. […]
After 40 Posts… Time to Reflect
ExperiencesOn this Independence Day… reflecting seems so fitting.So here goes…I launched my blog… “The Space Between the Notes” in October of last year. 40 posts later, its time to take a little of my own medicine. Reflect on my own Spaces before racing to compose the Notes for #41.I’m one who believes your best when […]
Martha Sterne
RelationshipsMartha SterneI don’t know Martha Sterne well. Nancy and I have retired on “Someday Isle” when it comes to church. You know… some days I’ll go… some days I won’t.We have been members of All Saints Church however for 26yrs. Love the place. It’s because of wonderful people, clergy like Martha. Key reasons why this […]
Payson
RelationshipsI have many “bright lights” in my life today. People, events, learnings… all amplify my growth, my journey in these later years. None shines as bright as the “light”… joy I’ve received from my granddaughter, Payson. She’s beautiful, smart, feisty… maybe more so now as a teen. Full of energy. She spends most of it […]
Accountability
Emotional GrowthAccountabilityTaking responsibility for something that youhave done or something you are supposed to do.Or more simply… doing what you say you will do. I have lived a life full of accountability. My own… helping others be accountable too. A much used word… most often misunderstood.But accountability lies at the root of character, respect… above all […]
“Surprise” Birthday
ExperiencesEvents will come into my life periodically … daily actually. That I feel are worth sharing. I find you may benefit because our lives are so parallel in so many ways… aren’t they. If you message me, “Hey, Bob… thanks for that.” If true …my time couldn’t be spent more rewardingly.Here’s my latest event l’d […]
Al Elstein …
RelationshipsI’m at Hartford’s Bradley Airport having just attended my 50th college reunion. A weekend full of faces known and unknown. “Who’s that?” … was a question I had to ask myself all weekend long. My class consisted of an incredibly accomplished, impressive group. Revealed in part by essays we all submitted prior to the event. […]
Jake …
RelationshipsJake …”Tee hee hee”… “Look, here comes Jake!” 10 year old girls in the hallway at Jackson Elementary. Giddy. Walking down the hallway? My grandson, Jake. Oblivious to the attention. Handsome, simply a beautiful child. Wide eyed little girls… well, just having fun admiring him for the moment. True story? Doesn’t matter if it’s true […]
It’s Not Just Lunch …
ExperiencesThere’s an article in the Wall Street Journal this morning entitled, Going Out to Lunch is a Dying Tradition. As one cited, “I put going out to lunch right up there with fax machines and pay phones.” Lost opportunity… a lost art really. The premise of this Blog is that we all need more Space […]
The Deep Pool Within…
SpiritualitySight … hearing … smell … taste and touch. Our five senses. Today is fast. A blur at times. When do we pause! Stop to savor these five senses? The spaces between all those notes? Not often. We are consumed by the events, the pressures, the demands of life now. Ok. Is this our the […]
The Retirement Myth
Emotional GrowthRetirement is a myth. I’ve engaged with execs, business owners, even a few friends. Coaching them as they move from a career, a new phase of life… most times to “retirement.” The common story, “If I can just put in a little more time, and get to retirement. I will be free !!”… “Yes!!” Right? […]
14 Don’ts of Highly Effective People
Emotional GrowthYears ago Stephen Covey wrote a groundbreaking book elevating the concept of personal growth. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” Here are “14 Don’ts of Highly Effective People”Read ’em… repeat them… over and over. They will change you. Inspired, some borrowed from Amy Morin’s great book, “13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do” 1. […]
Pine Valley 2017 … A Reprise
ExperiencesThe term, “experience of a lifetime”may be overused when describing a trip, an event you don’t forget. You know … just a great time. This week I had a just a great time! An experience that will resonate with me … for one long time. Two great friends, Gary and Patrick. Gary one of my […]
Illusions…
SpiritualityMagicians are experts at the art of creating illusions. You may be too. With a friend, a person at work, your spouse. I certainly used to be… no more.” Illusion” is defined as… something perceived, distorted in a way that is different from reality. We all create illusions. Usually negative. Most are figments of our […]
Your “Light” …
SpiritualityHave you ever experienced times when you’re really in the “Zone”? When you were truly energized, at your very best… just on? Great eye contact with others; fluid speech; can’t miss during tennis, golf, playing bridge. For those of you who speak before groups, committees… the “pin drop” silence when you talk. One of the […]
“Blind Spots”
Emotional GrowthI once worked with a super sales guy. Led his Company in sales most years. Three homes… the big Mercedes… ego galore. You didn’t have to ask him about these… he was more than willing totell you. Alan (not his real name) was very good at what he did. Which led me to send him […]
Four “Daze” on Harbor Island…
ExperiencesA few weeks ago I told a friend of mine I was taking my girls to Harbor Island. Just the four of us. Most I’d told had said “Wow! That’s amazing.” I expected the same reaction from my friend. He said, “Took my two kids and Jane to Switzerland skiing last Christmas. All the old […]
A Pencil Beats the Memory… Every Time
ExperiencesOne thing I’ve always been good at … not letting ideas, thoughts, memories disappear, forgotten, never to be recaptured. My mantra? The weakest pencil stroke is better than the strongest memory.I’m asked a lot, “Bob, how do you remember all that stuff?” I don’t. Just don’t. You see I’ve learned a few techniques over decades […]
Our Fleeting Values …
Emotional GrowthWhere have they gone? Our values that is … our courtesies, our basic sense of respect, just plain decency. Our college campuses give me the most pause here. “My word is my bond.” Don’t hear this as often anymore. Now it’s PC… intolerance, angrily disagreeing… fighting with one another… way too much.Of course we’ve reaped […]
46 in 1
ExperiencesNancy and I just celebrated 46 yrs of marriage. Incredible years filled with the joys of shared experiences, children, grandchildren. Just so many magical remembrances. Of course there were the down times too, and yes if I’m totally truthful even a question at times if I’d selected the right partner. I’m sure Nance had her […]
The “White” Driver and a 46th Wedding Anniversary…
ExperiencesThree years ago during an all employee meeting at Taylor Made Golf Equipment, the CEO asked the crowd of hundreds, “Would anyone like to share an idea they have for our upcoming year?” One young lady in the back of the room raised her slender hand and offered, “Sir, have you ever considered painting our […]
Our Future… the “Internal Universe”
Emotional GrowthOur world today is in chaos. Our politics, our resources, the Global order. The lives of so many people all over the world are in complete disarray. From Africa to the Middle East to right here in America. Some look at this mess and conclude… maybe a period of disruption is necessary before a new […]
Why Coaching?
Experiences“Why do I need a coach?” I’m asked this question all the time. Well, if things are going along “swimmingly”… you may not need a coach. “Yeah!”, you say. “I don’t! I’m on a roll, at the harvest, pulling fish into the boat as fast as I can.” Business is great! Right. I get it. […]
Peter…
RelationshipsHarvard came out with a 72yr study recently. “1 Secret to a Fulfilling Life ” What did they conclude? The secret?… Love. 72 years, one word, love. Hmmm, how bout that. Further, “Good relationships keep us healthier, happier.” If you’re fortunate to have on or two people, relationships in your life you can share all […]
The Fahey Cup
ExperiencesLast night Nancy and I attended the Annual Meeting of Ansley Golf Club here in Atlanta. A special place for our family. The meeting was electric… driven by the beauty of new construction, debt free financials, but most of all an overflowing ball room of excited members. A culture that always transcends the numbers, the […]
Who Am I ?
RelationshipsWho am I? …We all go through phases, don’t we? The ups the downs. Those crucial decisions that define in many ways the path we choose for our lives. Marriage or significant other, career, avocations. The years after educating ourselves are dedicated to achieving things, paying the bills, success (defined in a number of ways). […]
The Chasm and the Veil….
Emotional GrowthRisk. I have found the greatest risk in life is… investing? starting a business? betting a bunch at Vegas? No. The greatest risk in life is taking an emotional risk. Confronting a colleague at work, a friend or a loved one when there are problems in the relationship. Making yourself vulnerable sharing your true heart […]
D’ya ever see a dead man fall out of a window?”
ExperiencesMy grandfather was accomplished. Above all he was a real character. Many Sunday’s “Pop” would drive from his apartment in Germantown, Philadelphia to our home in the ‘burbs. Visit, have dinner with us. He arrived this one time and had to “relieve himself”… after all he was in his 70s. Pop was slight. Stooped over […]
Thoughts on Love…
Emotional Growth1 Corinthians 16:14 … Let all things you do be done in love… I was once told, “Did you know you cannot love a person?” “Oh? I replied, “Do you have some hedonistic view of the world? Love many people thus more pleasure? What are you driving at?” This is hard for me to explain, […]
We’re Living in… Righteousness?
Emotional GrowthWe are so polarized today aren’t we. Politics, relationships, what to have for dinner tonight. The flood of information, its’ speed of delivery has made us all “experts”… “Google it” has made us knowledgeable quickly on just about any subject. See how smart we’ve become? How smart I am. All this for the most part […]
Everybody’s Got a Story…
ExperiencesI often have breakfast at the Ok Cafe. Great breakfast place near my home. I was with a “friend”of mine (I have no clients, only friends). He flew in for the day to conduct his annual planning session with me. A smiling waitress named Tia served us. (read her name badge). Wish more places would […]
You Never Know Who’s Swimming Naked…
Experiences… until the Tide goes out. This is a phrase I’ve used numerous times when deflection, confusion, untruths surface… abound. In a marriage, a business deal, with ourselves. Obama (sorry had to)… the blue dress… Pete Rose. Until your drain all the deception, fluff, get to real motives in the situation at hand…the “tide” will drown […]
Passion… Confidence… Determination
ExperiencesFor the past seventeen years I have written “The Christmas Letter” to my family. It started as one of those travelogues, those look at us kind of messages we got as inserts in Christmas cards. “Sam did this. Lisa did that. We traveled to…” Oh, you get them too? But the “Letter” has evolved over […]
Sandbags for Christmas…
Emotional GrowthEbenezer Scrooge. Shows up every Christmas. Stooped over… grimaced face… angry, oh so angry. A life of greed, contempt, unhappiness. Even hate. He’s familiar to us.In truth we all have a little “Scrooge” in us, don’t we. I call this the burden of the sandbags. No, not the bags of sand you find building levies, […]
The Time your “Light’ went on …
ExperiencesVic Beasley was a consensus all American linebacker at Clemson University in 2013, 2014. He was a the first round draft pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2015. Expectations were sky high. His first year in the NFL? A disaster. Vic was vilified by the Atlanta press; the Falcons even considered letting him go at the […]
A Gift at Christmas… Al Bailey
ExperiencesAl Bailey’s my newspaper guy. For 26yrs he has delivered my morning paper. 5:15am every morning, double wrapped rain or shine. Has never missed! Al’s amazing. I have sent him a check every year in thanks. For his dedication to his passion. Making sure his many friiends get their morning paper for coffee, their daily […]
“I’ve Got Enough” …
ExperiencesJack Bogle is the legendary pioneer and founder of Vanguard… one of the largest asset gathers in the world. One morning he was walking with a friend on a beach in Southampton… “Hey, Jack., look at that multimillion dollar mansion up there. How does it make you feel that the guy in that home makes […]
——–, and The Essence of Heart
RelationshipsI have a friend. Call her, “——-, my Belle (old Beatles tune) for the sake of anonymity. I sent this to her this morning. I learn, grow so from our friendship. She doesn’t know this is so. I’ve known ——- for 17yrs. Talk to her once every three. Maybe. The connection between us? Instant. inspiring. […]
Critical… Your Mental Screen
Emotional GrowthA newborn… so precious. Equally as exhausting. Right? … for those new parents out there? A baby’s thought process? Very simple. Stimulus… response. Eat, sleep, poop. No real “mental” screening going on here… yet to be developed. As the child grows, so does the his/her “mental screen.” What do I mean? Simply? We all receive volumes […]
The Boys
RelationshipsThe Boys… …my triplet 13 yr old grandsons in CT. Born a pound and a half each at birth. In the hospital for months before coming home. They’re special. A loving father, a beautiful mom, my daughter. The early days revealed that one, Willy, was not quite right… autistic. Sadness?… of course. The reality? He’s […]
The Song… “It Was a Very Good Year.” Remember?
Emotional Growth“It Was a Very Good Year” For those who can remember… the melodious tones of Frank Sinatra. A very good year. What was your best year? Days, hours, moments? Think back. Times in the “zone”, on a roll! Tears of joy… times you’ll never forget? Go ahead, go there… right now. I’ll join you. Watching […]
Speed Can Kill… But now Slow Down.
ExperiencesMy last Post?… Speed is a problem. But paradoxically, the best way to grow personally, professionally? Is to Slow down. Fred Couples, the beloved pro golfer was once asked, “Fred, with that slow, rhythmic swing of yours, how do you hit the ball so far? Fred smiled, “Oh that’s easy. I slow my swing down […]
Speed… Can Kill !!
ExperiencesWelcome to “The Space Between the Notes”… Post # 1 In an airport… a restaurant… walking on a sidewalk. What do we see? People on their devices of course… Iphones, Ipads … oh yes and usually with no eye contact. Familiar? Of course. We all all talk about it. Albert Einstein said it best… “I […]